Caerleon, Historic house in Bellevue Hill, Australia
Caerleon is a large red brick residence with stone dressings, terracotta tile roofs, and multiple balconies, known for its elaborate leadlight windows and ornate chimneys. The building combines Queen Anne and Federation style elements across a single property.
The house was designed in 1885 by architect Maurice Bingham Adams for Charles B. Fairfax and was among the first buildings in Australia to show Queen Anne style. Its construction marked a turning point in Australian residential architecture as it moved away from Victorian tradition.
The house shows Queen Anne style features that were rare in Australia at the time, blending European design traditions with local building materials. Visitors can see ornate chimneys and decorative windows that show how this style became part of Australian residential architecture.
The building sits in Bellevue Hill in the Woollahra area of New South Wales and is visible from the street, though it is managed as private property. Visitors should be aware that access is usually restricted and the best way to appreciate the house is by viewing it from outside.
Architect Adams personally created ornate iron pieces such as overmantels and gates that were integrated directly into the house structure. These hand-crafted details are visible throughout the building and show the designer's personal care in every element.
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