A Sanctuary of History, Heart and Church Charm
It isn't often that a property so steeped in character, charm and graciousness becomes available. Set across two titles on an expansive 4,144m² allotment in peaceful Allendale East, this remarkable offering invites you to own a rare piece of the region's rich heritage. Once the St Theresa Catholic Church erected in 1886 and thoughtfully extended in 1900, this enchanting building now stands proudly as a beautifully transformed residence, masterfully adapted for modern living while honouring its sacred past.
Stepping inside, you are immediately immersed in the romance of old-world architecture fused seamlessly with contemporary comfort. Be lost in the moment beneath soaring timber ceilings, decorative arch windows and doorways and the warmth of timber floors throughout. Natural light beams through stunning period leadlight arch windows, illuminating a home that feels both timeless and truly one of a kind.
The main living and meals area is undoubtedly the centrepiece of the home, a breathtaking open space overseen by a charming internal balconies. A slow combustion wood heater adds warmth and ambience, making this a beautiful place to unwind or gather with loved ones. The functional kitchen continues the heritage warmth with timber cabinetry, electric cooking, a striking arched leadlight windows, feature wood-fired stove and timber mantle, pantry and a delightful timber bench with drop-brackets for flexibility and space.
From here, through the beautifully crafted arch doorway a private courtyard escapes into tranquility, an ideal setting for morning coffee, weekend entertaining or evenings spent embracing the peaceful coastal air of nearby Port MacDonnell.
The home comprises three beautifully considered bedrooms within the main residence. The primary suite accessed via the grand staircase where a parent retreat/sitting area with projector screen and gorgeous built in shelving sets the tone for an atmosphere of true calm and luxury. A stunning barn door opens to the main bedroom with built-in robes and feature leadlight arch windows while across the mezzanine again accessed by the beautiful timber staircase another bedroom has been cleverly designed to capture the character of the elevated space and also features a built in robes, skylights, ceiling fan and again expansive built in shelving. The third bedroom sits beneath the mezzanine and off the main living area and is tastefully partitioned by stunning double barn doors and includes a walk in robe like never seen before.
The bathroom continues the vintage appeal with its traditional claw-foot bath, separate shower and elegant hand crafted timber vanity, all blending harmoniously with the home's heritage aesthetic. The separate toilet and laundry/mudroom still retain the original wash trough, a delightful nod to the building's earlier life.
A versatile granny flat enhances the lifestyle appeal, complete with lovely timber floating floors, a spacious open-plan living area, a bedroom, and future potential to add a bathroom if desired. A charming timber deck welcomes you upon entry offering a peaceful spot to sit, relax and enjoy the rural surrounds making this space perfect for guests, extended family or a private studio retreat.
Outdoors, the property continues to impress with its generous grounds and practical improvements. A three bay Colourbond shed plus workshop provide excellent storage, with an open bay suitable for storing trailers, equipment or vehicles. Rainwater tanks, bore water (supporting the gardens and toilet), a utility shed, greenhouse, chook house, fruit trees and firepit add both convenience and lifestyle appeal.
All of this is positioned in the township of Allendale East, within easy reach of the thriving coastal hub of Port MacDonnell—South Australia's southernmost point and long cherished for its fishing heritage, windswept shoreline and relaxed community feel.
Just a quick 5-minute drive to the beach and only 15 minutes to Mount Gambier, this property enjoys the ideal blend of country quiet and coastal proximity. Embrace the welcoming small town atmosphere of Allendale East, with the Allendale East Area School and the local General Store right at your fingertips.
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