Image: Google Street View
The former Port Dock Hotel in Port Adelaide is undergoing a magnificent conversion into a lavish private residence with a number of impressive features.
This historic 19th-century property, which is listed as a state heritage site, was sold last year for over $3 million and now spans 1410 square meters of land, destined to become a singular and luxurious family home.
Plans have been submitted by aspex building designers, who has been delivering projects since 1991. It joins of flurry of both residential and commercial projects happening in the Port of late, including the resurrection of the Port Admiral Hotel, plans to bring back the Globe Hotel, two waterfront housing developments adding 1300 homes and more.
The ‘Our Port’ renewal project by RenewalSA which runs until 2027 is helping South Australia’s historic maritime town re-emerge as a thriving waterfront community. And it seems a lot of private projects are inadvertently helping just the same.
The ambitious project which has been dubbed as owner Michelle Pattison’s “forever home”, includes a significant modern extension seamlessly integrated with the original building’s historic charm. An existing non-heritage-listed extension will make way for a new garage, adding to the property’s convenience and functionality.
The ground floor of the residence is designed for spacious and comfortable living. The main living area encompasses a vast kitchen, pantry, family space, and a dining area. Additionally, there’s a well-appointed laundry with an adjoining mudroom, as well as a stylish bathroom. Further enhancing the grandeur of this home is a library/reading room, a formal dining area, a cozy TV room, the master bedroom with a walk-in robe, and a generously sized ensuite. For car enthusiasts, there are three garages that can accommodate up to five cars.
Moving to the first floor, you’ll find two more bedrooms, an additional dining area, a second kitchen, and two separate living spaces. The property even boasts a separate studio with its own kitchenette, offering endless possibilities for relaxation and entertainment.
Outside, you’ll also find plans for a hard court basketball area and lavish outdoor pool.
Originally built in 1882, the two-story state heritage-listed building, which once served as a hotel, features a striking bluestone facade and a rich history.
Pattison is passionately documenting her journey of restoring and preserving the property’s original charm on an Instagram page. She is dedicated to the meticulous restoration of the building, with a focus on maintaining its authenticity. Highlights of the restoration include a beautifully restored 1855 cast iron balcony, a heritage-approved Zincalume roof, and a matching front verandah that pays homage to the original design.
“Anything that can be restored will be,” Michelle shared in one of her posts, reflecting her commitment to honouring the property’s heritage.
The plans state that “conservation works ensure that the heritage value of building is retained and integrated into the design.”
This remarkable piece of history was acquired on July 14, 2022, for $3,080,000, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the former Port Dock Hotel, which had also previously been known as the Port Dock Brewery Hotel.
For more information on the plans, head here.
