Adelaide’s historic mansion Thornwood selling for the same price as average house in Sydney’s suburbs

Who’d buy a three bedroom house in the burb’s of Sydney when you could own a beautifully renovated historic mansion in Adelaide for the same price?

That’s exactly what you’ll find at Thornwood, 27 Potter Rd, Clarendon a historic property that’s now up for sale.

While the property’s price guide hasn’t been disclosed, it’s expected to sell for somewhere between $1.5 million and $1.8 million.

According to recent CoreLogic reports, the capital city median house price is $1,482,750, which makes the price guide for Thornwood look like real value.

Built in 1861 as the town’s first schoolhouse, Thornwood went on to be home to a family of blacksmiths and later served as a watch post for the local weir keeper.

Fast forward to today, and this stunning home has been lovingly restored and modernised by its current owners, Robert Deeth and Anita Butcher, over the past 24 years.

“When we first saw it, we brought some friends along, and they thought we’d lost the plot!” Anita joked in an interview with Channel 7’s Selling SA presenter Jasmine Teurlings.

“The place was in terrible shape, but we knew it had potential. And we’ve always loved a good challenge.”

From a forgotten relic to an award-winning masterpiece

Thornwood’s revival culminated in 2016 with an award-winning extension that beautifully combines old-world character with modern elegance.

On one side, you’ll find the carefully restored original structure, complete with Jarrah floors, black granite benchtops, and a show-stopping 110cm Elan freestanding oven imported from England.

On the other side, the modern addition features burnished concrete floors, exposed brick walls, and underfloor heating.

This contemporary wing flows seamlessly into an alfresco pavilion and a luxurious master suite with a walk-in robe and a spa-like ensuite.

And if that’s not enough, there’s also a powered shed with a bathroom, workshop, and a hidden wine cellar capable of storing up to 1,000 bottles.

Wine lovers, take note-this is the ultimate space to uncork and unwind!

“We wanted to keep the old and the new distinct but connected,” Robert explains. “It’s all about celebrating what the house was while giving it a fresh future.”

Thornwood has had only seven owners in its 163-year history, making this an extraordinarily unique opportunity.

“This place is a treasure,” says Robert. “In today’s world, where things are so often disposable, maintaining something like this feels really important. It’s not just a home; it’s part of history.”

Thornwood is such a big part of Clarendon’s story. So many people have watched its transformation over the years, and now they finally get the chance to see it for themselves. It’s really exciting!Sally Jenkins - Harris Real Estate

For Robert and Anita, the sale is bittersweet.

“We’ve poured so much love into this place,” Anita says. “But it’s time for someone else to write the next chapter in Thornwood’s story. We can’t wait to see what they’ll do with it.”