The home combines the beauty of the original church with modern comforts. Photo: One Agency Wagga Wagga.
At first glance, it’s obvious that 98 Downside Road in Wagga is not an ordinary home. This five-bedroom, three-bathroom property converted from a church continues to amaze even after its stunning first impression.
The main living, dining and kitchen area is in what was once the Downside Presbyterian Church, built in 1937. It still retains the brickwork of the original church and of course the high ceilings remain, giving it an openness rare in new builds.
The interior has undergone a complete transformation, creating an open space perfect for entertaining, dining or relaxing, all served by a large kitchen with a huge island benchtop and a walk-in pantry.
“The original owners sought to modernise the space while complementing the original design and structure. The church was completely rundown when they bought it and they’ve made something special out of it,” One Agency Wagga Wagga agent Holly Newbigging says.
Of course one of the great advantages of a converted church is that there are plenty of windows letting in light on all sides.
“North-facing windows flood the interiors with natural light, complementing grand design elements such as cathedral ceilings, a feature wood fireplace, and flowing sheer curtains framing the restored church windows,” Holly says.
The heritage charm of the old church has been intentionally preserved and enhanced with an outdoor entertainment area consisting of a 9m x 4m pool, which overlooks established gardens.
The property, in addition to the church, has a newly constructed building which houses the main bedroom, a multipurpose room, the rumpus room, a bathroom and four additional bedrooms.
Occupying the prime position, in its own wing of the property, is the main suite, with a walk-in wardrobe and an ensuite with a free-standing bath and skylit twin showers.
“Photos don’t do the main suite justice; you could fit a lounge room in there; it has its own balcony and a his and hers walk-in wardrobe,” Holly says.
“One of the home’s greatest assets is its floorplan, which separates living, entertaining and private spaces. The floorplan is quite forward thinking and it would suit combined living, multigenerational families or families looking for room to grow.”
The property is close to town, seven minutes to Charles Sturt University and 15 minutes to Wagga’s CBD, yet it still sits on a 4000 sqm block.
“We think that this property would really suit someone who used to live on the land and wants to be closer to town without sacrificing the kind of comfort that a house on a large parcel can provide,” Holly says.
“The proximity to town is another great convenience.”
The property makes great use of its land, featuring an alfresco area, a firepit, and a double garage with a studio.
“The studio is perfect as a granny flat or a home office space, there’s a lot that could be done with it,” Holly says.
“A newly built 18m x 11m four-bay powered shed with automatic doors offers plenty of space for caravans, boats, or a home workshop. It’s a once-in-a-generation property, a remarkable blend of past and present,” Holly says.
Few homes have a unique architectural history with the comforts of a modern home and 98 Downside manages to do both.
For more information on 98 Downside Road in Wagga, contact Holly Newbigging on 0408 963 598, and make sure you check out all the hottest listings on Zango.
