It was designed by Sir Herbert Baker’s practice and took more than three years to build - from 1898 to 1902. The exteriors have several characteristic Baker signature features such as mullioned bay windows, pediments and prominent chimneys.

The original owner was Carl Jeppe, a prominent Pretoria lawyer, who also became a member of the Cape Bar and who had been appointed Consul-General for the then Transvaal in Cape Town. He named the property Trovato, which is Latin for ‘I find’. Trovato is the most sought-after and prestigious suburb in Upper Wynberg.

The 2 100sqm house with 20 rooms and six bathrooms stands on over 1.6 hectares of wooded gardens. Over the years the property has been used variously as a home for convalescent soldiers during World War 1 and a farm supplying produce to the Union Castle shipping line as well as various commercial concerns. It was declared a national monument in 1987.

Because the property has not always been a residence, the house has not been continually updated. This means that many of the original features have been preserved, including hand-painted ceilings, imported brass bath fixtures and Victorian wallpaper and furniture reflecting the arts and crafts period.

“The original carved features, wood panelling, decorative fireplaces, window detailing, silk wall dressings, hand pressed ceilings and beautifully-preserved wood flooring are testament to the skilful craftmanship of the period,” says Samantha Nel, an area manager for Pam Golding Properties in the Western Cape.

“This exceptional property would be ideal as a diplomatic residence. However, the General Business (GB1) zoning also makes it eminently suitable for use as business headquarters or a boutique hotel.”

Many of the bedrooms and recreation rooms have balconies with pleasant views of the tree-lined surroundings. The spacious main bedroom has an en suite bathroom and a walk-in dressing room.

Parking space is plentiful, which is unusual in this exclusive suburb where parking is at a premium. The parking area at the back of the property includes 15 shaded parking bays and a number of open bays.

Other features that would appeal to modern buyers include a three-phase generator, a borehole and a sophisticated security system with CCTV.

“Heritage homes are becoming increasingly popular investments for various reasons - their timeless appeal, cultural importance, distinctive character and charm. Some buyers are drawn to the history of a home, whereas others find the spacious rooms, high ceilings, thick walls, architectural detailing and grand finishes appealing,” says Nel.

“Trovato House is a Cape Town landmark that has been standing for more than 100 years. Whoever buys the property is sure to appreciate the significance of preserving such a remarkable piece of South African history.”