Phryne's House and Others

Have you seen Miss Fisher Murders Mysteries on PBS yet? It is a delightful series. She has great clothes, fantastic shoes, a clever wit, and a kind heart. (And a little golden gun that I have never seen her use.)

But even better, she has the coolest house:

The historic house “Wardlow” in Parkville, Victoria was used as the exterior of the Phryne’s house.

I never thought about Melbourne, Australia having really neat houses, but they do -- plenty of them.

The house above is "Labassa", owned by the National Trust. A 1890 French renaissance mansion significant for its richly decorated and finely executed interiors, including a grand staircase with a magnificent stained glass window and rare trompe l'oeil ceiling -- Ooh là là.

Built in 1847, "Como House" in South Yarra is an amalgamation of Australian Regency and Italianate architecture styles. The opulent property features sprawling lush gardens, a fountain, and even a croquet lawn.

Designed by architects Reed and Barnes in 1868 in the Lombardic Romanesque style , the "Rippon Lea" mansion  is a breath-taking beauty. I just love all the fancy brick work. Owned by the National Trust Australia.

I am sure this was a beauty in its day. Sievers, Wolfgang, 1913 "Coronado Mansion"

And my very favorite -- built in 1889, this red brick building has an incredible, impressive tower and the cast iron detailing makes one mind boggle. "Illawarra" has been owned by the National Trust since 1966.

Who is up for a visit to Melbourne?