Reimagined by renowned Melbourne architect James Jamieson of Niimori Jamison, this historic church has undergone a masterful transformation, seamlessly merging heritage with contemporary precision. Once at risk of being lost to time, the structure has been reborn as a striking modern residence-a symphony of volume, texture, and natural light. Every architectural element has been meticulously considered, creating a home that is both profoundly liveable and visually compelling.
At its core, the 5 bedroom, four bathroom residence is designed to be as functional as it is beautiful, with spatial flow and materiality working in concert to enhance daily life. Expansive soaring ceilings preserve the church's sense of grandeur, while original Baltic pine floors ground the space with warmth and history. The refined interplay of polished concrete, soft carpeting, and rendered brick introduces layers of texture that shift with the light, offering a dynamic yet calming ambiance.
A hallmark of this design is its sprawling internal courtyard, a secluded yet connected space that extends the living areas outward. Designed for all-season use, it serves as both an entertainer's dream and a private retreat, ensuring seamless indoor-outdoor transitions. A 6-metre-high statement door opens dramatically to the courtyard, enhancing the sense of scale and architectural grandeur while flooding the interiors with light.
This residence is as thermally efficient as it is architecturally striking, with extensive hydronic heating, double glazing, and strategically positioned ceiling fans ensuring comfort year-round. Every detail speaks to an uncompromising level of craftsmanship-from the frameless magnetic-closure doors, which blend minimalism with practicality, to the studio's roofline alignment, a subtle yet deliberate reference to the church's original silhouette.
The original stained glass windows, preserved throughout the home, cast ever-changing patterns of light across the interiors, honoring the building's past while enriching the contemporary aesthetic.
Beyond the main home, a self-contained studio above the double garage provides additional flexibility, whether for guests, creative work, or extended family living. The slate roof and brick-rendered façade pay homage to the building's heritage, while landscaped yet low-maintenance gardens offer a tranquil setting without sacrificing ease of upkeep.
Positioned within walking distance of Ballarat's historic precinct, train station, and thriving café culture, the home provides the perfect balance of connection and retreat. Ballarat East is known for its vibrant artisan community, tree-lined streets, and rich cultural scene, making it a fitting backdrop for this extraordinary residence.
Key Architectural & Design Highlights:
- Designed by James Jamieson of Niimori Jamison, expertly balancing heritage with modernity.
- A soaring, voluminous interior that preserves the church's grand proportions.
- 6-metre-high statement door opening to a secluded internal courtyard.
- All original stained glass windows, celebrating the home's rich history.
- Expansive internal courtyard, a private yet connected outdoor living space.
- Five bedrooms, four bathrooms, designed with spatial efficiency and privacy in mind.
- Baltic pine floors, polished concrete, and plush carpeting, adding depth and texture.
- Extensive hydronic heating, double glazing, and split-system cooling for year-round comfort.
- Frameless magnetic closure doors and precision architectural detailing throughout.
- Self-contained studio above the garage, offering versatility for guests or additional living space.
- Slate roofing and a brick-rendered façade, maintaining the integrity of the original structure.
A rare synthesis of architectural vision, liveability, and heritage preservation, this home is more than a residence-it is an enduring work of design.
*** ** 18B Barkly Street, Ballarat East (next door) is also available for sale. Please reach out if you would like to know more.
PLEASE CONTACT THE AGENT FOR AN INSPECTION OF THIS PROPERTY
