This commanding 965m² oceanfront corner site, positioned directly opposite the beach on one of Adelaide's most prestigious coastal boulevards, presents a rare opportunity to restore or reimagine a celebrated piece of local history. At the junction of Lady Gowrie Drive and Harold Street, the property delivers breathtaking, uninterrupted views across the Gulf St Vincent and a stately early 1900s façade that exudes character, scale and the promise of architectural revival. The residence is listed as Local Heritage, reflecting its historic significance and ensuring its architectural elements are retained.
Formerly St Joseph's Children's Home and later a music and community centre, the residence's historic exterior, steep gables, heritage detailing and verandah provide a magnificent starting point for a thoughtful restoration or contemporary reinvention.
Reimagine the possibilities
Inspired by one of the most beautiful architectural design trends, bringing together an original classic village style with modern comfort and functionality. This oceanfront property presents a unique opportunity to elevate those foundations into a residence defined by refined finishes, timeless detailing and elegant living spaces.
The original early 1900s house forms the foundation, featuring generous ground-floor rooms, a living area that opens to the verandah and upper-level rooms, toilets and a store, all offering flexible spaces ready to be restored, adapted or expanded.
The concept imagines the heritage frontage complemented by coastal gardens and hedges, period-appropriate fencing and a balcony balustrade that echo the charm of the era. Facing Lady Gowrie Drive, the verandah and balcony wrap around the corner, establishing a commanding street presence.
On the Harold Street side, the concept introduces a modern interpretation with a secure four-car garage, driveway parking for additional vehicles and a first-floor primary suite featuring a terrace and northern views. A mudroom at the entry provides practical functionality, while design seamlessly links the heritage and contemporary zones. All proposed works are subject to council consent (STCC).
At the rear, the concept embraces the ultimate esplanade lifestyle with an undercover timber-decked portico extending from the garage toward the original house, with inbuilt BBQ, space for TV or fireplace and a feature glass door that connects the heritage and modern areas. All extensions and additions are intended to be sympathetic to the existing Local Heritage house, retaining the original decorative elements and elevations, and remain as unobtrusive as possible when viewed from the street.
This vision of extended modern living and entertaining merges classic village-style charm with striking contemporary architecture, resulting in a magnificent mansion for those who appreciate grandeur, opulence and the best of both worlds. Stonework at the garage's rear reflects the coastal setting, while a pool, water feature, lawn and outdoor shower complete the envisioned seaside retreat. A mature pine tree at the end of the property forms a natural canopy above the water feature, providing summer shade.
Key Features
• 965m² (approx.) corner landholding with dual frontage
• Original early 1900s Local Heritage house with generous ground and upper level rooms
• Opportunity to restore and reimagine as a grand seaside home blending heritage charm and modern design
• Heritage verandah and frontage form the foundation for concept development
• Concept includes coastal gardens, hedges, period-style fencing and balcony balustrade
• Conceptual modern addition: secure four-car garage plus driveway parking for additional vehicles (STCC)
• First-floor master suite with terrace and northern views (STCC concept)
• Mudroom at entry for practical functionality (STCC concept)
• Rear undercover timber-decked portico with inbuilt BBQ, TV/fireplace space and glass connection to heritage house (STCC concept)
• Stonework referencing the seaside location (STCC concept)
• Pool, water feature, lawn and outdoor shower (STCC concept)
• Stunning dual street presence at Lady Gowrie Drive and Harold Street
• Uninterrupted views across Gulf St Vincent
Location & Lifestyle
Largs Bay offers the best of coastal living with a warm community feel. Known for its character homes, peaceful beachfront and village charm, it's the kind of suburb that people rarely leave. Just 30 minutes from the CBD and a short walk to the Largs Bay train station, the area offers everyday convenience without sacrificing serenity.
A five-minute stroll takes you to the iconic Largs Jetty and the beautiful Largs Pier Hotel, perfect for sunset drinks, weekend dining or seaside celebrations. Enjoy daily walks along the Esplanade, refreshing swims at Largs or Semaphore Beach and boutique shopping and cafés in the buzzing Semaphore precinct.
With excellent public transport, quality schools, local parks and access to major shopping hubs, this is a family-friendly coastal community with outstanding lifestyle appeal and strong future growth.
A magnificent coastal canvas, awaiting the right buyer to bring its next chapter to life.
Concepts, inspiration and builder referrals available on request. Enquire today.
*Images are artist's impressions of conceptualised designs only and are intended to provide an indication of possibility.
Disclaimer: All information regarding this property has been sourced from materials we consider reliable. We cannot guarantee its accuracy and accept no responsibility for any errors or omissions, including land size, floor plans, building size, age or condition. The property is Local Heritage, and any works, including extensions or additions, should be sympathetic and may be subject to council consent (STCC). Prospective purchasers should carry out their own investigations and seek independent legal and financial advice. RLA 327084
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