"Avondale" is arguably Bendigo's most prestigious period home. Its commanding presence on a prominent city-fringe corner is a testament to its status as an embodiment of Bendigo's illustrious golden era of architecture. Originally constructed in 1896 by the accomplished local contractor J R Daley as his personal residence, this ambitious build showcases a captivating blend of various period styles and elements.
Following a meticulous restoration, extension, and modernization, "Avondale" now exudes a harmonious fusion of timeless charm and contemporary comforts. The enchantment begins the moment you step into the entry foyer, greeted by soaring 12-foot ceilings, elegant leadlight-glazed windows, and gleaming Baltic pine floorboards. This meticulously preserved home offers a glimpse into the grandeur of Bendigo's past while seamlessly accommodating the needs and desires of modern living.
Continuing through the formal rooms, the lounge area captivates with a stunning bow window, complete with wide sills, an inviting open fireplace, a leadlight-glazed porthole window, and an exquisitely adorned ceiling. Adjacent to the lounge, the grand dining room provides ample space for elaborate feasts or cherished family gatherings. Boasting a marble fireplace and authentic chandelier, French doors leading to a charming side courtyard, and a remarkable pressed metal ceiling, this room is further enhanced by intricate leadlight adorning three arched windows.
Conveniently situated off the foyer, the current study doubles as a versatile library or a fourth bedroom, while an additional smaller study features a wall of built-in bookshelves. The renovated ground-floor bathroom presents a breathtaking vision of grey and white marble tiling, a classic claw-foot bath, a stylish in situ shower, and a discreetly positioned toilet. No expense has been spared in ensuring that every detail in this home reflects its prestigious status.
Expansive living spaces seamlessly integrate a spacious living room with built-in wall units, framing a magnificent marble open fireplace with ethanol heating. An adjacent box-bay window dining area, a chef-worthy kitchen, and a sizable butler's pantry/laundry further enhance the ground floor's allure. The kitchen itself showcases bespoke cabinetry complemented by elegant marble benchtops, a full suite of Miele appliances, and a picture window that offers a clear view of the sun-drenched courtyards and inviting pool.
Ascending the Huon pine staircase, adorned with a bronze statuette, leads to the upper level where the sleeping quarters await. The master suite exudes sophistication, featuring a marble fireplace, ample built-in storage, access to a front balcony, and a recently remodelled ensuite. Extensive built-in storage in the second bedroom provides the option to transform it into a charming dressing room. The third bedroom, renovated bathroom, and a walk-in lined store complete the upper level, ensuring ample space and comfort for the entire household.
While major high-end upgrades have seamlessly integrated modernity into the home's original charm, features such as split system air conditioning in every room upstairs, with ducted heating/cooling downstairs, a C-Bus home control system, and fresh monochromatic white paint bouncing light off the walls further enhance its allure.
However, the appeal of "Avondale" extends beyond its remarkable interior. Nestled on an approximate 1011m² tri-frontage allotment, the property boasts professionally landscaped gardens that beckon with their serene beauty. A striking sandstone-paved pear-tree walkway leads to a heated pool, accompanied by soothing water features and a picturesque fish pond. The meticulously designed outdoor spaces provide a seamless extension of the home's grandeur, offering a tranquil oasis for relaxation and entertainment.
Additional highlights include side access to an automatic oversized double garage, complete with the opportunity for an outdoor kitchen with power, gas and hot water accessible, as well as a second brick garage/workshop with a guest lodge/studio and a spacious mezzanine floor situated off Myall Street at the rear.
To fully appreciate the magnificence of this prestigious home, an inspection is essential. Offering unrivalled privacy and an exceptional location, just a short walk from the railway station, CBD shops, cafes, restaurants, and theatres, "Avondale" stands as a splendid testament to Bendigo's golden era of architecture and is undoubtedly the city's most prestigious period home.
