One of Cape Town’s most iconic historic properties is for sale for the first time in many years.

Posted On Thursday, 16 January 2025 13:00 Published by
Rate this item
(0 votes)

Priced at R45 million thro ugh Pam Golding Properties, Trovato House is an impressive manor house in Upper Wynberg with late Victorian and neo-classic architectural details.

It was designed by Sir Herbert Baker’s practice and took more than three years to build - from 1898 to 1902. The exteriors have several characteristic Baker signature features such as mullioned bay windows, pediments and prominent chimneys.

The original owner was Carl Jeppe, a prominent Pretoria lawyer, who also became a member of the Cape Bar and who had been appointed Consul-General for the then Transvaal in Cape Town. He named the property Trovato, which is Latin for ‘I find’. Trovato is the most sought-after and prestigious suburb in Upper Wynberg.

The 2 100sqm house with 20 rooms and six bathrooms stands on over 1.6 hectares of wooded gardens. Over the years the property has been used variously as a home for convalescent soldiers during World War 1 and a farm supplying produce to the Union Castle shipping line as well as various commercial concerns. It was declared a national monument in 1987.

Because the property has not always been a residence, the house has not been continually updated. This means that many of the original features have been preserved, including hand-painted ceilings, imported brass bath fixtures and Victorian wallpaper and furniture reflecting the arts and crafts period.

“The original carved features, wood panelling, decorative fireplaces, window detailing, silk wall dressings, hand pressed ceilings and beautifully-preserved wood flooring are testament to the skilful craftmanship of the period,” says Samantha Nel, an area manager for Pam Golding Properties in the Western Cape.

“This exceptional property would be ideal as a diplomatic residence. However, the General Business (GB1) zoning also makes it eminently suitable for use as business headquarters or a boutique hotel.”

Many of the bedrooms and recreation rooms have balconies with pleasant views of the tree-lined surroundings. The spacious main bedroom has an en suite bathroom and a walk-in dressing room.

Parking space is plentiful, which is unusual in this exclusive suburb where parking is at a premium. The parking area at the back of the property includes 15 shaded parking bays and a number of open bays.

Other features that would appeal to modern buyers include a three-phase generator, a borehole and a sophisticated security system with CCTV.

“Heritage homes are becoming increasingly popular investments for various reasons - their timeless appeal, cultural importance, distinctive character and charm. Some buyers are drawn to the history of a home, whereas others find the spacious rooms, high ceilings, thick walls, architectural detailing and grand finishes appealing,” says Nel.

“Trovato House is a Cape Town landmark that has been standing for more than 100 years. Whoever buys the property is sure to appreciate the significance of preserving such a remarkable piece of South African history.”

 

Last modified on Thursday, 16 January 2025 14:42

Most Popular

How to make your offer stand out in a competitive property market

Jan 16, 2025
If you’re looking to purchase a home in a sought-after suburb or estate, securing the…

One of Cape Town’s most iconic historic properties is for sale for the first time in many years.

Jan 16, 2025
Trovato House
Priced at R45 million thro ugh Pam Golding Properties, Trovato House is an impressive…

Exemplar’s December retail trade exceeds expectations

Jan 26, 2025
Theku Mall Aerial
With the 2024 Festive Season behind us and Back-to-School season well underway,…

The Cultural Blueprint: How to Make Your Office Not Just Look Good, But Feel Right

Jan 16, 2025
Jess Moyer Cushman & Wakefield BROLL
When it comes to designing office spaces, one size definitely does not fit all –…

Somerset Mall Embarks on a Multimillion-Rand Expansion Project

Jan 26, 2025
Somerset Mall
Major retail destination set to launch a new era of retail and leisure by November 2025…

Please publish modules in offcanvas position.