By ANNA USHER

“A labour of love” is how Mosman’s Lidia Killeen describes the restoration of her remarkable Federation terrace, a grand two-storey property brought back to life after half a century of neglect.

Once the ugly duckling on one of the suburb’s finest streets, 36 Orlando Ave is today a perfect marriage of historical allure and contemporary sophistication on a vast scale.

“When we moved in, the home was completely unloved and dilapidated,” Lidia told Mosman Collective, “she was begging to be resuscitated, and I am so glad we were able to save her.”

After engaging DMC Builders and Tibi Interiors, Lidia said the brief was to create a designer family home while respecting its original features within the existing footprint.

“We knew that the bones of the property were excellent and the original plaster features, fireplaces and sash windows were salvageable and able to be brought back to life,” she said.

“However, the back of the home needed to be opened up, it required re-wiring, and there was also an extra bathroom built upstairs.”

With four huge bedrooms and soaring 4.5m ceilings, the home boasts wrap-around, deep balconies on both levels, with panoramic views from the top floor.

A gourmet Miele kitchen, including Volakas marble benches, leads to casual dining, with large bronze sliding doors opening out to a blue stone paved alfresco area and lush tropical garden.

With a $4.8 million price guide, agents Nick Gittoes and Anthony Godson said the Orlando Ave terrace has attracted professional couples, young families and downsizers ahead of the March 23 auction.

“The home owners spared no expense on this project, and it is a meticulous renovation,” Mr Gittoes said.

“With soft tones, classic elegance and natural finishes, the residence will stand the test of time for another 100 years, and it is a Mosman home of the highest calibre.”

For the current owner, the scale of 36 Orlando Ave will be missed.

“There isn’t another home in Mosman like this one,” Lidia said, “and while we will be sad to say goodbye, a new renovation awaits, along with the hope that we can save another local property from a developers bulldozer.”

Key Features:

• Family room, bespoke wine cellar and stunning feature wall
• Gourmet kitchen, Volakas marble, Miele appliances
• Pergola, all weather alfresco, spacious and private backyard
• Versatile living + fireplace, fourth bed or formal lounge
• Expansive wraparound balconies, panoramic views
• Three generous bedrooms exude charm all with built-in robes
• Master with unique curved entryway and luxurious ensuite
• State-of-the-art smart home system with ducted air throughout
• Character details, 12-foot ceilings and ornate ceiling roses
• Situated on a friendly street
• Double off street parking.