What do you get when you combine the passions of an Italian restaurateur and art aficionado with a renowned Australian architect? If you guessed a secluded modern estate complete with a chef's kitchen, art gallery and cantilevered pool with breathtaking views of the Yarra Valley, you would be spot on.
In a locale known for its world-class wineries, sweeping vistas, and contemporary art, the singular estate of noted Melbourne restaurateur Rinaldo Di Stasio is on the market for AUD $9.5 million (roughly US $6.1 million).
The modern country estate was the result of a collaboration between Melbourne restaurateur Rinaldo ... [+]
Built in 1995, the country estate is the brainchild of a deep friendship between Di Stasio and late architect Allan Powell. The influences of both powerhouses are clear. With its stone walls, rustic fireplaces and sleek modern design, the home seamlessly blends elements of contemporary Australian architecture with subtle notes of rustic Italian villas.
The residence sits on a secluded hillside at the footsteps of the Warramate Hills Flora and Fauna ... [+]
"Ronnie [Di Stasio] wanted his modernist expressionism style of architecture, and Allan [Powell] wanted to create something that was an ode to Ronnie's heritage," says Tracey Atkins, who co-lists the property with fellow Private Property Global agent Robert Fletcher. "When you go there, you don't know if you're more inspired by the sharp boldness of the architecture or the softness of the Italian nostalgia. It's a lovely balance."
The home's design also draws influences from the Peggy Guggenheim Collection in Venice and the Heide ... [+]
Fletcher adds that the home's design also draws influences from the Peggy Guggenheim Collection in Venice and the Heide II house in Melbourne.
Sitting on the footsteps of the Warramate Hills Flora and Fauna Reserve, the remote three-bedroom property in the Gruyere region is an entertainer's paradise.
The blending of rustic and modern elements includes cold block walls paired with rustic fireplaces.
A tranquil courtyard, reached by stone steps and featuring mature plane trees and a circular reflection pond, sets a calming tone for the estate. Adjacent to the courtyard is a large reception room oriented towards the scenery, where Di Stasio showcased an impressive art collection. The reception room can accommodate upwards of 30 people and contains a commercial-grade kitchen with a hidden butler’s prep area and flexible entertainment space that could also serve as a wine cellar.
The floor plan includes three bedrooms. Powell-designed plans for three other self-contained living ... [+]
Outside, a swimming pool designed by Hugo Powell, the son of Allan Powell, offers unobstructed valley views. A seven-acre retired vineyard remains on the grounds and could be resurrected should the new owner desire. In years past, wine produced at the estate was served in Di Stasio's famous Melbourne restaurants.
According to Fletcher and Atkins, the home has already received significant interest from potential buyers. Among those interested are overseas Australians and "entrepreneurial" folks looking to add a trophy property to their collection.
The swimming pool was designed by Hugo Powell, son of Allan Powell, and is surrounded by sweeping ... [+]
The listing comes at a time when Di Stasio is undergoing a transition at his earliest and most famous restaurant, St Kilda's Cafe di Stasio. He's currently expanding the space above the restaurant to house an art and exhibition space featuring artwork from artist Shaun Gladwell.
In addition to the St Kilda location, Di Stasio also owns two other restaurants in Melbourne's Central Business District and Carlton neighborhoods. A longtime arts patron, he commissioned the Australian Pavilion at the Venice Biennale in Italy in 2008.
A 7-acre vineyard fills a rolling hillside below the residence. Previously, wine produced at the ... [+]
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