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Whernside Mansion
2A Whernside Avenue TOORAK, Stonnington City

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Stonnington City
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Statement of Significance

Belcroft is of local significance as one of the few remaining large nineteenth century Toorak mansions which once graced this area. The major remodelling or 1919 and 1929 have considerably altered the original character of this building. The significance now derives from the association with Annear and Serlian trademark and the historical association of former occupants.

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    • Physical Description 1

      Whernside Mansion - Physical Description 1

      A large two storey remodelled stuccoed Italianate mansion set in large grounds with some remaining mature trees. The bulky proportions of this building arc a result of several alterations. The original design (shown in the 1907 MMBW drainage plan) shows a large but typical double bayed Italianate villa with two storey return veranda. A single storey wing extended to the south. In 1919 the building was dramatically remodelled. The veranda (possibly arcaded) was removed and in filled with only a small balcony remaining at both levels closeto the entry. At this date the rear service wings and presumably the extensive stabling were demolished. There is no indication of the treatment of the remaining section of balcony but in 1929 Harold Desbrowe-Annear incorporated his now familiar Serlian screen over the entry. (Refer to Appendix One for biographical details of architect.) The property has a new fence and garage, all executed in rendered masonry in an attempt to emulate the stuccoed character of the house.

      Local Historical Themes

      Whernside Mansion - Local Historical Themes

      8.1.2 Seats of the mighty - mansion estates in the nineteenth century

      6.3 Constructing capital city economies

      3.5.2 Creating a cosmopolitan society - twentieth century immigration

      10.3.6 Philanthropists and charity workers

      Heritage Study and Grading

      Heritage Study and Grading

      Stonnington - City of Malvern Heritage Study

      Author: Nigel Lewis and Richard Aitken P/L
      Year: 1992
      Grading: A2

Public contributions

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