R57 million
Rarely does a property of this stature change hands. Built in 1914 for John Garlick, a renowned departmental store developer, Graceland stands proud in one of the most iconic suburbs along the South Peninsula coastline, namely St James. This picturesque area offers the most sublime lifestyle choices. Set on the ocean’s edge, the area is characterised by its many gracious and historic homes, whilst the neighbouring harbour village of Kalk Bay is renowned for its eclectic mix of top restaurants, trendy cafes, boutiques and art galleries.
Steeped in history, this exceptional residence has been mindfully curated to invite luxurious, contemporary living. Nestled against a majestic mountain backdrop, Graceland offers the discerning buyer a unique opportunity to acquire a private estate set on over 10 800 square metres, stretching from Main Road up to Boyes Drive and affording this historic home unparalleled ocean views.
Stone walls define the lower perimeters and a gently curving driveway leads from an imposing entrance gate to the residence with its distinctive chimneys, elegant loggias, covered porticos and signature Majolica roof. The impressive façade of the house and alluring interiors have been impeccably preserved in a manner which retains authentic links to its historic past.
Designed by celebrated architect William Grant in 1914 , Graceland is an early example of what came to be known as Cape Mediterranean architecture. Elements of Spanish and Italian features such as pergolas on columns and generous arched verandahs are delicately combined whilst high ceilings , perfectly maintained wooden floors , doors and sash windows are a feature throughout.
On the lower level, the formal dining room and lounge lead off a grand wood -panelled entrance hall with both having views of the sea and mountains across the Bay. A serene library area and study open to a wide breezeway bordered by an iconic ivy clad mountain stone wall.A generous kitchen area encompasses the rear of the residence and links with an informal ‘chef’s table’ dining area leading onto to a sea-facing columned patio .
A classic wide staircase leads from the hallway to the upper floor which comprises a spacious landing opening to a pillared verandah and four very generous bedrooms en suite. Two sea-facing suites open onto private balconies which face the sea and two look out over the gardens and mountain behind.
Graceland’s terraced gardens merge seamlessly with the natural terrain. There are three stone staircases leading from the top gardens onto the untouched mountainside.
Set in a tranquil enclave, the swimming pool is surrounded by plants and large established trees for the utmost privacy.
There are many vantage points in the grounds from which to enjoy panoramic ocean and mountain vistas to take in the crisp sea air whilst the front patios which flank the entrance provide cool and tranquil spaces with intimate ocean views.
Designed in keeping with the architecture of the main house and with independent access, a comfortable Lodge House with spectacular sea views is located at the entrance above the garage.
Graceland was originally called Watergate after a waterpoint which was built into the lower boundary wall , which was fed by a perennial mountain stream. It was known specifically as
a rest and drinking point for horses pulling carts and carriages on their way to Kalk Bay and Simonstown.
