‘Una’: A Mornington Treasure with Heart, History and Timeless Charm
In the heart of Mornington’s prestigious Golden Triangle, between Barkly Street, Main Street and the Esplanade, stands a home steeped in history and family legacy.
Known as "Una", this remarkable 1920s Californian bungalow has been loved, lived in and lovingly restored by the same family for more than 40 years.
Barry Plant Rosebud Director and selling agent Craig Leo says the home has been a cherished part of the owner’s family for many years.
“The owners have lovingly cared for this property for decades. While it’s bittersweet for them to say goodbye, they feel it’s time for someone new to write the next chapter.”
Perched on a generous 1,113 sqm corner block, Una sits proudly within Mornington’s most sought-after pocket, offering two street frontages, sweeping bay views and a commanding presence marked by its iconic palm tree out front.
“That palm has been there forever,” Craig says. “It’s one of those things locals instantly recognise. People often stop just to admire the house – it’s that kind of property.”
Inside, Una has been sympathetically renovated to retain its character and charm while introducing modern comfort. Soaring 11-foot panelled ceilings, polished hardwood floors, elegant French doors and a sun-drenched north-westerly verandah evoke the timeless beauty of its era.
“The renovation was done with such respect for the home’s history,” Craig explains. “It still feels authentic, but it’s beautifully liveable too.”
The property’s history runs deep.
“One of the former residents was a stretcher bearer in World War II, and after returning from the war, he later became the Archbishop of Brisbane. Every wall in this place has a story,” explained Craig.
Over its lifetime, Una has evolved from a halfway house into one of the Peninsula’s most admired homes. Craig’s in-laws bought the property in 1986 for $90,000 and have since lovingly restored it, transforming it into a classic bayside beauty now valued at over $3 million.
“They’ve travelled a lot recently, and the upkeep has become too much,” Craig says. “They’ve poured so much love into it, but they’re ready for someone else to enjoy it as much as they have.”
While not officially heritage-listed, Craig says Una might as well be.
“It’s not heritage on paper, but it is in spirit,” he says. “You can feel the history when you walk through the door. There’s nothing else like it in Mornington – it’s truly one of a kind.”
With only two comparable sales in the last 18 months, opportunities like this are exceedingly rare. For those who value character, history and a sense of place, Una offers the chance to own a genuine piece of Mornington’s past and its heart.
Visit the property details page on our website to learn more about this stunning property at 759-760 Esplanade, Mornington.