History beckons as Strowan’s delightful Damsels hits the market

Buyers have the chance to purchase a slice of history as Damsels at 238 Papanui Road is marketed for the first time since 1975, having been proudly owned by one family for 45 years.

Originally built back in 1925 by renowned architect Edward England – of the firm The England Brothers – the six plus-bedroom, three-bathroom, four-plus living home offers grand and timeless elegance.

“Harvey and Jenifer Williams bought the home in 1975, moved in with four young daughters, and then added a fifth little girl to the mix soon after that,” said Ray White Metro Salesperson Bronwyn Williams – who is selling the property alongside colleague Jasmine Rohland.

“Thoughtful extensions and renovations have been undertaken over the years with the desire to preserve and uphold the integrity of the original design at the forefront of every decision.”

“After building a large north wing incorporating an indoor spa pool and games room for the girls to enjoy with our friends in 1984, the home was briefly named Twin Gables. However, a further name change came soon after. The home has been known as Damsels ever since,” Ms Jennifer Williams said.

Generous in all its proportions, the home offers an abundance of spaces to spread out and entertain. A spectacular formal entrance with custom tile feature floor, sweeping staircase and magical lighting, gives a glimpse of the world within.

Exquisite and versatile interconnected living areas cater to every scenario, along with a country-style kitchen, butler’s pantry, and offices on each level offering practical elements.

There are six double bedrooms, including a lavish master complete with its own bathroom suite and two walk-in dressing rooms.

Outside, the dimensions are similarly impressive, with the grounds playing host to established gardens, a tennis court and expansive entertainers decking.

“Mr and Mrs Williams have now retired to Sumner beach, and with their girls gone, they had come to the decision it was time to pass the Damsels baton on to someone new,” Ms Rohland said.

“Now in her 97th year, Damsels is in better shape than ever and ready to breeze through another century,” Mr Harvey Williams said.

Extensively renovated as part of a two-and-a-half-year repair and restoration project, ‘Damsels’ boasts upgraded features including structural reinforcing throughout, internal gib walls, electrical wiring, plumbing, drainage, and insulation – all meeting current building standards.