50 Kite Street, Orange

Mena - Rare opportunity - Iconic property

Making a strategic move to Orange to begin a new career direction or to retire is a path being explored by many. Drawn by the region's climate, lifestyle and breadth of professional employment options, it's become a step on a well-worn path.

Now, comes a once-in-a-generation opportunity to complement your new location with a landmark address.

175 years ago, another traveller escaped the chaos of Ireland, to open a general store in the main street of Orange. Irishman James Dalton made a well-timed move into retail, opening his doors in the early years of the gold rush, keeping miners from the nearby goldfields at Ophir well-supplied.

The lasting signs of James Dalton's business success are a handful of Orange mansions, built for Dalton and his family.

Among the best of these local landmarks is Mena.

Built in 1875 just far enough away from the bustle of the burgeoning family store, today's Mena can be found in a heritage neighbourhood, in one of the wide, tree-lined streets which give Orange its unique character.

Like all mansions, Mena comes with a colourful history. After episodes as a hospital and a time divided into residential flats, it's latest chapter is a story of detailed and meticulous restoration.

Since it last changed hands in 2003, this five bedroom home has re-captured its original charm by the owner's use of outstanding craftsmanship and attention to detail throughout the project.

A visitor will quickly notice 5-metre high ceilings with ornate plasterwork, 36 cm high skirting boards made from Australian cedar, all framed by the light from classic leadlight windows.

Today's Mena strikes the right balance for a new owner who wants to celebrate the options of the past in its formal dining, lounge, music, sitting rooms and study while embracing contemporary family living in its large eat-in kitchen.

Mena is a classic reminder of why location matters. The 2,327 square metre block and its quiet period garden is an oasis, a short 300 metre walk from Orange's bustling cafes and shops.

True to its origins, the grounds still contain the original stables, a gardener's cottage and garden shed. No doubt the original groundskeeper would appreciate today's fully equipped water bore and automated irrigation system.

The beauty of this painstaking work invites a new owner, ready to enjoy the fruits of these labours and to leave their own mark in Orange.