Positioned in complete privacy within a tightly held locale, this much adored, renovated, Architect designed home is being offered for sale for the first time in 25 years. Enhanced with sustainable features, the locally built home maximises passive energy with its Northerly outlook, quality European double-glazed windows, complete electrical fit out and 5kw solar system. Water is in plentiful supply with town water connected, rain-water captured from the rooftops feeds to over 52,000 litres of tanks irrigating the garden, while Slatey Creek which traverses the lake supports local wildlife. Three sheds and two vegetable patches make this a lifestyler's dream.
With its handcrafted 1880's bricks, French-laid Travertine floors and inviting views across its picturesque lake and majestic 5 acre (2.09ha approx.) garden, Birch Gables will inspire creativity with its spacious rooms, stunning fixtures and unique character. A rare and special find, it includes an outstanding double- brick, double-glazed North-facing studio. Currently used as a music room, with its bank of bi-fold doors the studio, featuring newly polished Tasmanian Oak floorboards, would make for a wonderful creative space for hobbyists or to run a business.
Solar powered entrance gates open to reveal a 300 metre avenue of Birches and Claret Ash.The sweeping driveway leads past the lake and 3 acres of cleared paddocks (perfect for several sheep or horses) and to the exquisite homestead beyond. Light pours into every room, and each window offers superb garden views. A spacious entrance hall and two impressive living areas unite two distinct bedroom zones. The elegant main bedroom with ensuite includes a private terrace with a fragrant Wisteria and Daphne covered pergola. The adjoining study with full height windows overlooking the paved decorative courtyard, leads to the first of the three living spaces. With multiple sets of French doors offering a seamless connection to the garden and an open fire providing a cosy ambience, the lounges room is a space for conversation and music.
The entertaining heart of the home however, is the grand open plan family room, featuring soaring 17ft. cedar lined ceilings, hardwood floors, free-standing wood fire and a superb new kitchen. With generous stone benches, 900mm SMEG induction cooker and a custom pantry, the open plan space is perfect for summer dinner parties destined to spill out to the North facing lawn.Two lovely large bedrooms complete this wing, serviced by a generous laundry, a beautifully updated bathroom and separate WC. Quality finishes throughout include solid brass handles and leadlight features. An abundance of storage maximises the use of space.
The garden is a symphony of colour and scent, carefully planted over several decades to form garden rooms full of vibrancy and texture through every season. Feature areas include a Tuscan olive grove, citrus grove and an orchard, while Canadian Maple, Magnolias, Norwegian Spruce, White Peach, Hellebores, Cherry Blossoms, English box hedging, Grape Hyacinth and Spring bulbs provide year-round interest.
It is easy to understand why this is such a special home, within a few minutes drive you can be in the heart of Woodend with its eclectic mix of shops, cafes and restaurants, while V/line services connect you to Melbourne in less than an hour and school bus collection is at end of the street. At Birch Gables you have complete privacy and a full set or resources, to enjoy the peaceful setting, independent off grid living, immersed in nature with abundant wildlife on your doorstep.
