A landmark estate reimagined: Alphington’s “Hills View”

“Hills View” (c1890) at 849–851 Heidelberg Road, Alphington is an estate that defies the ordinary. Rich in historical provenance, masterful architectural evolution and extraordinary scale, it is a home that must be experienced to be fully appreciated.

Here is why this National Trust-classified residence stands as the ultimate multi-generational family sanctuary.

A provenance of rare distinction

Constructed in 1890 for prominent industrialist Barnet Glass, the residence remains one of Alphington’s most historically significant homes. From the moment you step through the commanding foyer, there is an unmistakable sense of permanence and presence woven throughout the property.

Originally built in 1890, “Hills View” stands among Alphington’s most historically significant and tightly held landmark estates.

Celebrated for its architectural significance, the estate has been meticulously preserved and cared for by its long-term custodians for more than two decades. Original details, including soaring ceilings, leadlight windows and oak parquetry flooring, continue to honour the home’s heritage character while reinforcing its enduring prestige.

More than a historic residence, this is a rare piece of Victoria’s architectural and cultural heritage.

Meticulously restored by its long-term custodians, the residence balances heritage grandeur with modern family living.

A masterclass in architectural balance

The beauty of the home lies in the balance between its 19th-century grandeur and refined modern luxury.

Formal living and dining rooms at the front of the residence pay homage to its origins through rich detail, craftsmanship and elegant proportions. As the home unfolds, it transitions seamlessly into contemporary family living.

At its centre, a state-of-the-art chef’s kitchen with a premium butler’s pantry connects effortlessly to a light-filled atrium-style dining room, creating a warm and functional hub for both everyday living and entertaining.

Thoughtful contemporary updates, including extensive double glazing and electric solar panels, ensure the estate performs with modern-day efficiency while remaining deeply respectful of its heritage foundations.

Original details throughout the home continue to honour its 19th-century origins.

The ultimate multi-generational sanctuary

Set across more than 1,453sqm (approx.) of landscaped grounds, the estate functions not simply as a house, but as a completely private family sanctuary.

Expansive gardens surround a spectacular solar and gas-heated swimming pool and spa, creating a setting designed equally for grand-scale entertaining and quiet retreat. The scale, flexibility and privacy throughout the property allow it to evolve effortlessly alongside family life over decades.

In addition to the downstairs main suite and dedicated home office, the residence features a fully self-contained upper-level wing complete with its own kitchenette, two bedrooms, bathroom and private balcony. Whether used for independent teenagers, long-term guests or intergenerational living, the accommodation offers exceptional versatility without compromising connection to the main home.

A home designed for generations

Positioned moments from Alphington Station, Ivanhoe Grammar School, Fairfield Village and the Darebin Creek trails, the residence delivers a rare combination of heritage grandeur, contemporary comfort and remarkable family scale.

Carefully evolved across generations while remaining deeply connected to its 1890 origins, the estate offers a level of permanence and flexibility rarely found in Melbourne’s inner north.

For families seeking a forever home with history, presence and room to grow, this is an opportunity of extraordinary distinction.

To view inspection times and more information about 849-851 Heidelberg Road, click here.