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Bona Vista
59 Kensington Road SOUTH YARRA, Stonnington City

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Statement of Significance

Bona Vista is of state historical significance as ail example of a 19th century suburban mansion with a tower still in a garden setting, although of later date. It has high architectural significance as an example of one of the earliest known examples of the use of the Queen Ann Revival style in Victoria, displaying an unusual combination of stylistic influences. Located in spacious grounds (recently designed and planted), it is
of aesthetic significance and has additional historical importance for its associations with the original Bona Vista (now named Grantham) which was also owned by the famous Hobson family.

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    • Physical Description 1

      Bona Vista - Physical Description 1

      Bona Vista represents a combination of architectural styles. It is an early example of a style in which Classical and medieval elements are combined. Its overall Italianate form with its square plan and hipped roof is adorned with a Tudor gabled porch. The comer tower suggests the French Renaissance and the windows vary from multiple pane tudor type to the flat arched classical type. It has been remarked that, although no one style is given full rein, an overall picturesque effect is achieved.1 The 1880s designing architect is unknown.2 Although the exterior of Bona Vista remains largely intact, internally little survives from the Linton or earlier era. The 1980s garden, although new, has been judged as of local significance as one of the few properties in Prahran which continue the tradition of mansion gardens. It contains some significant plantings from the previous garden and the new lake is located on the site of the original fountain shown in the 1895 drainage plan.3

      References

      1. National Trust File No. 2665.

      2. Miles Lewis, A ustralian Architectural Index searched.

      3. City of Prahran Significant Tree and Garden Study.

      Local Historical Themes

      Bona Vista - Local Historical Themes

      8.4.1 Houses as a symbol of wealth, status and fashion

      8.1.2 Seats of the mighty - mansion estates in the nineteenth century

      Heritage Study and Grading

      Heritage Study and Grading

      Stonnington - Conservation Review City of Prahran Volume 2: Individual Buildings (A1)

      Author: Context Pty Ltd
      Year: 1993
      Grading: A1

      Stonnington - Prahran Conservation Study Identification of Buildings & Areas of Major Significance

      Author: Nigel Lewis & Associates
      Year: 1983
      Grading: A1

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