Historic splendour in Springfield
History breathes through the walls of this Springfield estate, which was designed in the 1920s by a prominent South Australian architect for a renowned orthodontist, and is now on the market with a heated indoor swimming pool, tennis court and a spacious wine cellar.
It was the property’s rich history and exclusive postcode that drew the interest of current owners Lily and Tom when they purchased the home in 2016.
“The foothills were non-negotiable for us. Brookside Road and The Glade junction is arguably Springfield’s quietest pocket – it feels beautifully secluded, yet everything’s just minutes away,” says Lily.
“Beyond the gorgeous gardens and indoor pool, it was the craftsmanship and character … it’s a rare blend of heritage and modern comfort.”
The home was built in 1927 in Tudor Revival style. Set on 2,400 square metres, the house seamlessly blends formal and informal living spaces. It features four bedrooms, three bathrooms and space for up to four cars.
There’s a synthetic grass tennis court, a heated indoor swimming pool and a spacious wine cellar.
The dwelling was designed by the noted South Australian architect George Gavin Lawson for the prominent orthodontist Dr Percy Raymond Begg AO.
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Dr Percy Raymond Begg was renowned for discovering a unique method for moving teeth to correct dental and facial deformities, which has benefited patients throughout the world.
Meanwhile, Lawson was a prominent architect responsible for many landmarks around Adelaide, including the Bice Building at the old Royal Adelaide Hospital, the Burnside Council Chambers and Town Hall, the Hartley Building at the University of Adelaide and the Ridley Memorial entrance to the Adelaide Showgrounds.
While Lily and Tom love this heritage, they have carried out some upgrades to make the dwelling more suitable for 21st-century living.
“I led the vision with our builder. We wanted it highly functional but sympathetic to the home’s character – no jarring additions,” says Lily.
Among the updates Lily and Tom made is the custom outdoor kitchen, which features six gas burners, an integrated fridge space, and cabinetry throughout.
“It’s become our go-to for relaxed entertaining,” says Lily.
Stepping outdoors into the manicured gardens, you will find plants such as African lilies, classic English box hedges with roses, magnolias, cherry blossoms, and an old mulberry tree.
“Walking around here feels like a private botanical tour,” Lily tells SALIFE.
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“Once you enter, there’s something lovely everywhere you look – gardenias, ‘Endless Summer’ hydrangeas, wisteria cascading over pergolas … even the tennis court is framed by climbing roses. Tucked away at the back, you’ve also got orchids and Arabian jasmine.”
Lily says her favourite spot in the house is the indoor heated pool.
“The year-round indoor heated pool is the winner for our children – it’s hosted some legendary parties,” she says.
Tom says he enjoys the terrace by the outdoor kitchen and the rumpus room.
“Open the cafe doors and you’re connected to everything,” he says.
“And the family rumpus room is a must-have for all families with small children – it’s a multi-functional room to create memories in.”
But with their children now interstate or overseas, Lily and Tom have decided now is the right time to downsize.
Lily says they will miss the “afternoon light on those timber ceilings, jasmine-scented evenings, and knowing we added our chapter to its story”.
The sale of 5 Brookside Road, Springfield, is being handled by Jamie Brown of Booth Real Estate.
