13 Welman Street is undoubtedly one of Launceston’s historic and architecturally important residences. Rich in history and sympathetically refurbished, this family home offers a relaxed yet elegant lifestyle. Positioned on Windmill Hill it has without a doubt, one of the most spectacular views of the City of Launceston, Cataract Gorge and the Tamar River. This residence is perfect as a permanent family home, weekend escape or city townhouse. Built in 1857-58 as one of seven detached and semi-detached villa residences in the Victorian Regency style, the row known as as Victoria Terrace was designed and built in keeping with the original concept of the terrace in Regency England. This remains one of Australia’s most important rows of houses and is an exceptional example of the work of James Bennell – one of Australia’s first speculative builders. The historic interiors have a wonderful sense of calm and display elegance, grace and symmetry. All the architectural elements associated with Bennell’s design are retained, including verandah, louvred shutters, small-paned sash windows, Regency fireplaces, hall arch, lofty ceilings, dormer windows and timber flooring. The 223.44m2 house is approached through a charming iron gate and garden to reveal a picture-perfect home complete with broad verandah detailed with fretwork, railing, valances and decorative posts. Entry to the home is through a wide hallway. To the left is the formal living room which shares incredible views over Launceston through French doors. The room has original regency fireplaces, high ceilings and wide japanned floorboards. To the right hand side of the hallway is the master bedroom, also graced with original period details. A magnificent modern ensuite and walkthrough wardrobe have been added to complete this room. From the shower, cleverly designed opaque glass doors swing back to allow open-air showers with a private garden view. This bedroom also has a secret wine cellar with a 600-bottle capacity. Further down the hallway is the library or media room with two built-in workstations and views over the rear garden. The tiled brick-nogged kitchen is at the end of the hallway and has original vaulted ceilings, custom-made cabinetry multipaned windows, French doors and fireplace. An original staircase leads up to three charming bedrooms with angled attic ceilings, fireplaces and skylights. The dormer windows offer panoramic views over Launceston. The stair landing gives access to a second bathroom with skylight and wet-room shower. The rear of the house is a private haven. The garden comprises of high boundary walls, Wisteria, lawned areas and a shaded canopy provided by the large Variegated Box Elder tree. The rear boundary borders the original brick outbuildings which still have their ‘pop-holes’ where firewood and coal were once delivered. Today these buildings are used for garden tool storage, workshop/ studio space and a fully functioning gymnasium with spa and sliding glass doors. This room could easily be converted into a private retreat. There is rear lane access to the property. At the front of the house is a colourful and perfumed cottage garden. Gracing the lawns are Japanese Flowering Cherries, Italian, Cypress, Camelias, Carpet Roses, Salvias, annuals, perennials and Box hedging. The house is fully service by town utilities including a 100Mbps NBN optical fibre connection. There is reverse cycle air conditioning, floor heating in the kitchen and ensuite and six original fireplaces. There is also a one-car garage at the front of the property and ample off-street parking. 13 Welman Street is beautifully positioned on a quiet street only five minutes walk from the vibrant CBD of Launceston. Here you will be spoilt by the many city gardens, leading cafes and restaurants, galleries, antique and book shops, boutique stores and weekend farmers’ market. Launceston Aquatic Centre and St Georges Square are only two minutes walk from the rear entrance of the property and leading private schools are also all within walking distance. A short drive from the home will take you to the airport, the famous Tamar Valley Food and Wine Trail, golf courses and all the charming historic villages and hamlets dotted across Northern Tasmania’s English landscape. 13 Welman Street is not just one of Launceston’s important historic houses but also a beautiful family home adapted to today’s modern living. Welman Street is quiet, tightly held and architecturally significant in the heart of one of Australia’s oldest and most sought-after cities – Launceston. For further information or to arrange a private inspection, please contact Dominic Romeo on – 0438 500 277 or email – dominicromeo@circaheritageandlifestyle.com.au.
