A historic mansion in Coogee, known as “Roslyn,” has been sold for $10.4 million, marking a significant moment in the suburb’s property market.
Historic Significance and Location
Built in 1887 by British timber merchant Charles Saxton, Roslyn is a Victorian Italianate mansion perched on a hilltop, offering sweeping views of Coogee Beach and the surrounding coastline. The home, one of Coogee’s oldest and most historically essential properties, is a reminder of the post-gold rush construction boom. The house has remained a local landmark for over a century and is admired for its grand architecture and prominent position.
The property has undergone extensive renovations in recent years, with the latest owners investing significantly in its restoration. The renovation preserved many of the original architectural features, including pressed metal ceilings, stained glass windows, and a widow’s walk, while also updating the home for modern living. The three-storey residence now boasts more than 500 sqm of internal space, landscaped gardens, a swimming pool, and a rooftop viewing platform.
Purchase and Renovation Plans
The new owners, Therese Moussa and Ramzey Choker, are well-known in Sydney’s hospitality scene as the creative minds behind The Grounds of Alexandria. While Moussa, the creative director, fell in love with the house and its heritage, the couple does not plan to live there. Instead, they intend to reserve the mansion for family use while continuing to rent in Elizabeth Bay.
Moussa described the house as a “gem” and expressed excitement about using her design skills to restore and maintain the home’s historical beauty. She sees the renovation as an opportunity to merge the mansion’s Victorian elegance with contemporary design, ensuring its rich history is preserved for future generations.
A Piece of Coogee’s Heritage
For many in Coogee, the sale and restoration of Roslyn highlight the suburb’s evolving character while paying tribute to its past. Originally constructed as a showpiece for Saxton’s timber business, the mansion later passed through several owners, including Vincent McCauley, who divided the property into flats, and Basil Burak, who restored it as a single residence in 1955.
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
After being sold for £5759 in the 1950s, the property changed hands multiple times, most recently in 2015 when cardiologist Aiden O’Loughlin and his partner undertook further restorations. With the latest sale, Roslyn has once again been given a fresh start, offering a blend of historic charm and modern luxury.
The sale of Roslyn has generated buzz in the Coogee community, not just for its high price but for the rare opportunity it presents. As one of the suburb’s most recognisable and cherished homes, the mansion’s ongoing restoration contributes to maintaining Coogee’s unique blend of history and beachfront living.
Published 05-Oct-2024
