The eight-bedroom residence and chapel sits on a massive 5000 sqm block. Photos: Blackshaw Manuka.
The Carmelite Monastery in Red Hill sold for $6.2 million when it went under the hammer.
The Carmelite order of Catholic nuns has left the sprawling property at 28 Mugga Way after 50 years.
A sale of $8 million was hoped for, but Blackshaw Manuka agent and auctioneer Mario Sanfranceso said the result was in line with current market expectations.
While the extended eight-bedroom home and architect-designed chapel on a massive 5000 sqm block attracted intense interest locally and from interstate, including 170 inspections, in the end, there were only three registered bidders.
The successful buyer was a local family who wished to make it their home.
The historic residence was originally built by influential Canberra journalist Joe Alexander and his wife Katherine on land sold to him by the former Prime Minister Billy Hughes. A plaque on a wall commemorates this.
An aerial view of the sprawling property, which backs on to the Red Hill Nature Reserve.
Highlights of the main residence include the richly dark Tudor panelling and diamond leadlight windows to the formal entry and living room and an art deco bathroom.
There are three more full bathrooms, one of which is an ensuite and another with multiple private shower cubicles.
There is a formal lounge with original concealed double doors, walnut panelling, an original fireplace, pelmet lighting, a vintage chandelier and a number of versatile rooms.
There is an antique front door and more period fireplaces, but the property does have ducted heating and cooling.
An enclosed annexe leads to the chapel, which boasts floor-to-ceiling windows, pale rafters, a courtyard and four entry points.
It includes a full kitchen with servery and numerous rooms that could be used for meditation, counselling or office work. One has its own powder room.
The block backs on to the Red Hill Nature Reserve and includes lush lawns, floral plantings, mature trees and productive gardens.
The order’s Canberra chapter has folded, and the four remaining sisters have returned to Melbourne.
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