157 Francis Street

I knew it was magic the moment we turned in. The approach sets the tone-along a winding driveway across a charming stone bridge and opening to a circular arrival wrapped around a majestic fig tree, gently revealing a home that feels both considered and completely at ease in its surroundings. Set on 1.06ha of private, picturesque land, it's a property that immediately feels like an escape. Architecturally designed with solar passive principles at its core, the home unfolds over three levels, with high pitched ceilings, exposed beams and expansive glazing drawing in natural light and warmth. A full-length verandah captures the northern sun, while glass-lined living spaces blur the line between indoors and out, anchored by a sunroom enveloped in greenery. Inside, the layout is as functional as it is beautiful. Living areas are layered with warmth-timber floors underfoot, built-in nooks and clever dividers creating intimate spaces within the open plan. A two-way fireplace connects the kitchen to the heart of the home, where a generous country-style dining space invites long, lingering meals and conversation. Accommodation is thoughtfully spread across the levels. Downstairs you have a guest bedroom and there is a bathroom on this level as well, offering additional convenience. The middle floor provides a further two bedrooms and a stunning bathroom with garden outlook and dual access. While the top floor - reached via a light-filled stairwell beneath skylights - hosts two further bedrooms, including a private master retreat with ensuite and walk-in robe, alongside the 5th bedroom with its own dedicated study. Intertwined is a mass of storage options, some tucked away, others obvious, all cleverly thought out (one even providing the potential doorway to Narnia, adding to the magic!) Downstairs, a versatile library, rumpus or office opens through beautiful cedar double doors to a private garden sanctuary. Manicured yet organic, with winding paths and lush plantings framed by high hedges, it's a space that feels quietly curated and deeply peaceful. Outdoors, the grounds are nothing short of enchanting. Courtyard gardens blend the elegance of a Sydney terrace with the romance of a French garden, while beyond, a vast, level expanse of lawn offers space to gather, play or simply breathe. At the rear, the land in encased by a striking green gully - a layered tapestry of native trees and ferns that shifts with the light and seasons. It's a living backdrop, rich with birdlife and the quiet movement of wallabies, adding a sense of depth, privacy and connection to the landscape. A magnificent 30-year-old fig tree anchors the grounds, both sculptural and functional, enhancing the home's natural cooling while offering a sense of history and permanence. Practicality hasn't been overlooked-there's a substantial garage that can fit 4 cars, additional double carport, plus dedicated separate visitor parking, a fully enclosed vegetable garden, garden shed, basketball hoop, water tanks and solar-ensuring the property is as liveable as it is beautiful. All of this, just six minutes from town. It's rare to find a home that balances design, privacy, scale and soul so effortlessly. It's the kind of place where you don't just live - you explore, you imagine, you grow up. And I think if you listen carefully you might even hear the magic. Disclaimer: All care has been taken in the preparation of this marketing material, and details have been obtained from sources we believe to be reliable. Blackshaw do not however guarantee the accuracy of the information, nor accept liability for any errors. Interested persons should rely solely on their own enquiries.