THE PLACE
As a case study for how convict deportation could change one's fortunes for the better,Corinda gains top marks. In 1826,Englishman Samuel Crisp was sentenced to life in Van Diemen's Land for stealing a sheep from a neighbouring farmer. After years of model behaviour,he was pardoned in 1840,allowing him to embark on a career as an enterprising timber merchant. His son,Alfred,inherited the business and built upon that wealth while rising to a respected position in society that included multiple terms as city mayor. In 1878,Alfred built Corinda as his family home,high on a hill affording views to the waterfront. After decades of swapping hands between various owners,it returned to the family fold in 2016,when Alfred's great-great grandson,Julian Roberts,and wife,Chaxi,bought the property then turned it into one of Hobart's finest boutique heritage hotels.
THE LOCATION
Forget taxis. Corinda is perched on the highest point in Glebe,within strolling distance of the CBD and Hobart's historic waterfront. The Tennis and Aquatic Centres are practically on its doorstep and the Royal Botanic Gardens are a hop,skip and jump down the road.
THE SPACE
Large blocks with opposing street frontages are rare in inner-suburban Hobart. Even scarcer are neatly compartmentalised English gardens that are big enough to host wedding receptions for 120 guests filling half that space. The gardens,which have featured in magazine spreads,contain a 100-year-old magnolia tree,yew and box hedges,a convict-era wall and a snug,self-contained Gardener's Cottage for two. The main house,Corinda,occupies the upper half of the block and contains six rooms with en suite bathrooms. Additional self-contained accommodation is available in the detached Coach House and in the Servants'Quarters wing. Two contemporary-designed Pavilions occupy an adjoining block – one sleeping two,the other eight.
THE ROOM