Laurelbank is a listed historical building under the Heritage Act of NSW and stands on just over one acre of land, being the remaining portion of the original grant of six hundred acres made to one Archbold James Sterling in 1850.

Mr Willam Lithgow, a former Auditor General for the State of New South Wales, acquired the site in 1854 and it was later sold to Mr & Mrs Joseph Griffiths, a builder who built the present Laurelbank Cottage in that year.

The building is of a brick and cement render construction placed on sandstone foundations with a large cellar, imported slate roof and having extensive iron lace and iron columns on the verandahs.

In 1925 Dr & Mrs FC Florence purchased the property and in 1965 it was sold to Kuring-gai Lodge Pty Ltd., the present owners, and converted to the floor plan that it is today.

Externally the building has remained unchanged. The gardens and the former coach house also remain as a reminder of the proud history of this part of Willoughby.

In 1993 Laurelbank was extensively renovated, with the external appearance restored to as it was in the 1800's. Internally Laurelbank has been completely refurbished with over $100,000 having been spent on the project.

Laurelbank today stands as a symbol of what dedication and hard work can achieve. Freemasons, their ladies and their guests, as well as those hiring the cottage for private functions may enjoy the ambience and serenity of this fine old building. Its grounds with some of the original trees, shrubs and camelias are a living reminder of a bygone era.