From the moment you step through the gate of 149 Wattle Street, you are greeted by something truly special. There is an undeniable warmth and beautiful energy that fills this remarkable home-a sense of history, love and life carefully nurtured over generations. Rich in character and overflowing with soul, this is a residence that immediately feels like home.

Designed by Bendigo-born architect William Beebe circa 1876 for prominent local businessman Edward Hands, this magnificent Victorian residence stands as a shining example of Bendigo's celebrated Boom-style architecture.

Positioned just 700 metres (approx.) from the iconic Sacred Heart Cathedral, its prestigious city-fringe setting is as remarkable as the home itself.

Behind the striking façade, adorned with matching decorative gables, intricate iron lacework, fluted steel pillars, triple windows and a tessellated tiled return verandah, lies a masterful blend of heritage elegance and contemporary family living.

Meticulously restored and thoughtfully extended, the home showcases a wealth of original features, including polished timber floors, soaring 14-foot ceilings, ornate cornices, ceiling roses and plaster pediments, marble and cast-iron fireplaces, and a beautiful box bay window. The magnificent formal lounge is a true centrepiece, with its striking teal-blue walls creating a sense of elegance and drama rarely found in homes of this era. Rich, sophisticated and beautifully balanced against the period detailing, the colour palette elevates the room into a space of exceptional character and timeless style. Luxurious carpets add further comfort and refinement throughout.

Offering four generous bedrooms plus a study, the flexible floorplan caters perfectly to modern family life. The grand main suite is a private retreat complete with an open fireplace, walk-in robe and ensuite, while the remaining bedrooms provide exceptional accommodation, including one with direct verandah access.

At the rear, a breathtaking conservatory-style extension creates an extraordinary family hub. Bathed in natural light, it features a designer kitchen with stone benchtops, Bosch appliances, butler's pantry and extensive custom cabinetry. Dining and living spaces flow seamlessly through French doors to an exceptional alfresco entertaining area with a Vergola auto-louvre roof, travertine tiling and electric heating for year-round enjoyment.

Set on a beautifully landscaped 1,014m² (approx.) allotment, the enchanting gardens offer a rare sanctuary so close to the city centre. The backyard offers productive citrus and passionfruit plantings, a wonderful connection to nature, while charming silkie chickens add a touch of country character and delight.

A side deck overlooks the private rear yard and sparkling glass-fenced swimming pool, measuring 10m x 4m and featuring solar heating, salt chlorination and self-cleaning functionality. An oversized double garage with rear access via Broom Street completes the outdoor offering.

Additional features include hydronic zoned heating, reverse-cycle zoned air conditioning throughout, a large dry cellar, plantation shutters, a 7kW solar system, automated irrigation, Crimsafe security doors, Eufy security system, double-glazed rear windows and extensive recent upgrades to storage that further enhance comfort and presentation.

Positioned in one of Bendigo's most tightly held and prestigious pockets, this exceptional residence offers an enviable walk-to-everything lifestyle. Enjoy easy access to the View Street Arts Precinct, Rosalind Park, QEO, theatres, galleries, acclaimed dining, boutique shopping and the CBD. Families will appreciate the convenience of walking distance to Girton Grammar School, Catherine McAuley College, Bendigo Senior Secondary College and Camp Hill Primary School.

A home of rare beauty, historic significance and genuine heart, 149 Wattle Street is far more than a residence-it is a place to gather, celebrate, grow and create cherished memories for generations to come.

Inspection by appointment only