End of an era for Strathfield: one of the grand of ladies of the lower Cashmere slopes

One of the last grand properties of Cashmere’s lower slopes could soon but sliced up as a property goes on offer next year.



It will be the end of an era when 77-year old Strathfield, the magnificent Christchurch home of Bob Currie and Jill Grierson for 14 years, with more than an acre of grounds, is finally on-sold.



It was built along stylish art deco lines by W A Trengrove in conjunction with a top architect in England who specialised in Georgian buildings.



The Opawa – Murray Ansley areas were once the haven of some of Christchurch’s most wealthy owners. Some still exist in their original state but none quite the same or as enhancing as Strathfield. Currie spent close to $1 million renovating it to the highest level some years ago.



The Ullrichs of Hurricane Wire owned the property for many years.



As were many of the houses between Centaurus and Aynsley Tce, Strathfield was once part of Riverlaw, a large property badly damaged by the September 4 earthquake.



Riverlaw, for a time known as the J Club, was renowned for its garden parties held to help charities.



``Word has it that he once had nine full time gardeners in the 1800s. Trees, stone walls and steps at Strathfield all eventuated even before Strathfield was built,’’ Currie said.



In construction, special bricks and Welsh slate were imported from the UK. The copper fittings add to the quality but mostly the design, the way it was constructed are quite unparalleled in modern homes. Two large lounges separated by doors sliding back into the wall making one huge lounge when entertaining. Oak and beech panelling. Two grand fireplaces, the doors, beams and chandeliers set off this area.



The lounges make much use of timber beams and panelling. The windows and doors are unique and hardly a house in Christchurch has no much built-in furniture, crystal chandeliers.



Strathfield is sheltered but has a fine the outlook, privacy and lovely gardens and lawns dropping down several levels.



The master bedroom wing with its own peaceful attached conservatory with fantastic views down through the garden, over the river and the park to the Southern Alps are priceless as are the sunsets. The wing has a huge dressing room area, superb bathroom with its spa bath, large shower, and wash basin in its oak setting. The bathroom is finished in Italian marble tiles with underfloor heating.



Murray Ansley is one of the best parts of town because of the hill views, all day sun and being sheltered from easterly winds. It has river, parks and many walks. The area offers a lovely mix of people. Everyone talks. There is a real community fee.

The garden has seven levels and is surrounded by large homes with large gardens. The stone wall and steps, the brick fence on Centaurus Road, fabulous trees (one Wellingtonia 140 years old) birdlife, lawns, bushlike areas. Sheer heaven!



The original garage was small. It was enlarged to a six-car garage with two workshops and an outside deck.



The super kitchen, pantry, laundry and the fabulous dining room help make this 500sq m house, set on a 4582sqm botanical setting of trees, lawns and garden one of the best of its kind in the city.



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