Elevated on its 518 sqm (approx) allotment, this two-bedroom Victorian cottage has been respectfully updated to honour its heritage whilst embracing the comforts of contemporary living. Painted in natural tones and framed by a planting of Elaeagnus macrophylla, its sweet fragrance is your first welcome home.
The front verandah sets an immediate tone, elevated above the garden with a long view over the neighbourhood. It is the kind of verandah you return to at the end of the day. Step directly inside to a light-filled, open-plan living and kitchen space, where high cove ceilings announce this is no ordinary cottage. Polished pine floorboards, warm afternoon light and double-hung windows framing quiet snippets of the Castlemaine streetscape complete the picture. At the heart of the living room, a solid wood heater sits inset into a striking black marble surround, the defining feature of a room made for winter. The kitchen is sleek and considered: white cabinetry, a marble-look splashback, a freestanding cooktop and oven, and an Asko dishwasher. The dining space adjoins, served by a split-system.
Two bedrooms, each carpeted and dressed with graceful Art Nouveau-style ceiling detailing. The main bedroom enjoys a walk-in robe illuminated by a skylight. An updated bathroom, featuring a shower, vanity, and toilet, along with laundry facilities, completes the interior. Double glazing, premium wall insulation and a double-layer roof insulation system ensure this home performs beautifully in all seasons.
The central hall opens to a rear sandstone terrace, a generous, sun-drenched entertaining space anchored by a handsome rendered masonry outdoor fireplace and bordered by a raised brick garden bed alive with herbs, lavender and perennials. Beyond, the fully fenced garden unfolds: olive trees, bay, citrus, ornamental plantings and a productive vegetable garden speak to a Mediterranean spirit.
Just 600 metres from the heart of Castlemaine, this is a genuine walk-to-everything address. Stroll to the Castlemaine Art Museum, the Theatre Royal, Australia's oldest continuously operating theatre, and the gold rush-era streetscape of Lyttleton and Mostyn Streets, where independent bookshops, ceramicists, jewellers and boutiques fill the grand Victorian facades. The Mill draws you in on a Saturday morning with its vintage bazaar, artisan producers, bakery, coffee house and Shedshaker Brewing tap room. The Botanical Gardens, farmers' market, wood-fired pizza, wine bars and gastropubs with live music are all within easy reach. And every two years, the Castlemaine State Festival transforms the town into one of Australia's great celebrations of art, music, film and theatre.
With Melbourne just 90 minutes by car and a direct train connection, this is a life that is creative, considered, and genuinely unhurried.
