From historic tram substation to elegant terraced home

BUYING a home is a journey and there is nothing more fitting than owning a glorious home steeped in history that was the former City to Bay tram substation in Adelaide.

35B Dunbar Terrace in Glenelg East is going under the hammer and homeowner David Eldridge lauded the happy 16 years he and his wife Cheryl had spent in the property.

“We actually used to live in a bungalow just around the corner and we remember back in the early 1990s when the historic substation was converted into homes,” Mr Eldridge said.

“Once complete, we used to walk past the properties all the time so we had our eye on them for a long while, and we didn’t hesitate once one of them finally came to market.

“I’ve been in the timber industry most of my life and I really loved the idea of living in a house that was built solidly out of brick.

“Inside, we loved the beautiful high ceilings and there was just something about the ambience of the whole place that made it a wonderful home to come back to.

“It’s a fabulous neighbourhood to live in and everyone is so friendly. There’s a tram stop five minutes away and that means Adelaide CBD is less than half an hour away.

“It’s such a good size and some of our fondest memories are when we’ve had our three kids and four grandchildren over for a big Christmas lunch.

“We’re at the stage of life now where apartment living would be more suitable to us, but we can see a growing family or even just a couple coming in and enjoying the history and the ambience, just as much as we have.”

Ray White Glenelg I Plympton Principal Adam Keane said the property was originally built in 1926 to house part of the electrical plant used to run the Adelaide to Glenelg trams.

“This elegant terrace home is bursting with charm and character features,” Mr Keane said.

“Within the Grovene Terraces' and named after the suburb of Grovene, which is now known as Glenelg East, this home is perfect for anyone looking for a slice of history with genuine personality and timeless style.

“The site was transformed from an industrial red brick substation to the exclusive residences you see before you today by R.F. Harding Homes.

“The result of 18 months of work now offers soaring ceilings and stunning oversized windows which draw an abundance of natural light into the spacious two-storey layout.

“The main floor is home to the generous living zones including an expansive formal lounge and dining set just off the entry.

“A well-appointed kitchen overlooks the living and dining room which connects to an entertaining pergola and easy-care courtyard.

“Ready for the home chef, the stunning kitchen offers gorgeous cabinetry and an island, along with a suite of modern appliances including a gas cooktop and a dishwasher plus a large pantry.

“A bathroom and a laundry complete this level, while upstairs is home to three large bedrooms, all with built-in robes.

“The master suite also offers access to a private balcony and a two-way bathroom with a soaking tub and a separate shower.

“Completing this prestigious home is a detached two-car garage with an automatic roller door and separate roller door access to the courtyard.”

The auction will take place on Thursday 26 March at Chairman's Room Morphettville Racecourse at 6pm.