282 Pyrenees Highway, Chewton, Vic 3451

Of double brick construction, with a decorative, block fronted façade, picket fence and stately Elm trees flanking the driveway, Norton Cottage (c1860s) is an absolute delight.  Once the home of J.B. Patterson, who rose to become the Premier of Victoria, this charming cottage on a roomy 1,138 sqm (1/4-acre+) has borne witness to the development of Central Victoria. Astute buyers will readily recognise that this is indeed a very special property.

Step into an interior where beautiful period features blend seamlessly with every contemporary amenity to offer stylish yet relaxed living.  The home’s original front section boasts a wide entry hallway off which fans four spacious rooms; two doubles, one with floor to ceiling built-in robes and a third bedroom, currently used as a light and bright home office.  Opposite, the hallway wall has been removed to offer a lovely open dining space.  Beyond the dining space, the past gives way to the present to deliver a beautifully designed passive solar extension which provides a fabulous contrast to the cottage’s period frontage.

Taking full advantage of a coveted northerly aspect, the rear wall of double-glazed windows and glass sliders floods the generously proportioned family space with natural light.  The kitchen is impressive with ample cabinetry and sweeping benchtops including a generous island bench with breakfast bar.  There’s an electric cooktop, under-counter oven, large pantry, butler’s sink and dishwasher.  In complementary tones of green and white with brick splash back, the kitchen’s finishes are a beautiful touch, providing a warmth and style that links the interior with its lovely garden surrounds.  Also in this wing is the light and bright king premier suite with spacious walk-in robe and chic ensuite plus the stylish centrally located family bathroom and Euro laundry. Numerous additional highlights include Baltic ceilings, engineered floorboards, split system air-conditioning, two fireplaces inset with slow combustion heating, ceiling fans, garden shed, rainwater tank and all town services.

The surrounding gardens are a master class in design and function. Double gates open to deliver ample parking space backed by a screen of espalier trees, beyond which is a lovely alfresco dining and entertainment space. A short flight of steps leads to stunning terraced gardens with lawn areas, native shrubbery and grasses bordered by stone walls and paving. Towering eucalypts on the reserve beyond the property’s rear boundary deliver a serene and private backdrop.

The location is appealing being within easy walking distance to Chewton’s post office/store.  Vibrant Castlemaine with its array of amenities is a 5 minute drive. Bendigo (20 minutes) and Melbourne (90 minutes) via the Calder Highway or fast train from Castlemaine further enhance Norton Cottage’s lifestyle appeal. To live in a gorgeous period cottage is a dream shared by many and when combined with stunning contemporary features and an indoor/outdoor lifestyle, your dream has come true.