This gorgeous old home dates back to 1884. Known as “Huondene”, this is as classic as they come. Packed with original features, this one really captures the look and feel of a by-gone-era. We are right in the heart of the historic and wonderfully community spirited, riverside town of Franklin. Everything in town is a short level walk. There are a few cafes, restaurants and gift shops as well as a fabulous organic shop. Down the other way is “Village Antiques”, housed in the old bank building which was then a hospital amongst other things. The local post office also serves a good coffee. And the river, well, that is a huge appeal. With the local oval right out front, you are sure to never get built out.

Back in the day, most of the houses along the main street also ran a business from out front, something that is still possible today due to the zoning (stca). Years ago, this one had a doctor’s surgery in the front rooms, amongst other things in its time. Now the whole house is a comfortable home. The ground level provides 3 bedrooms and a cosy lounge within the front 4 rooms, each with period features such as ornate fire places, lead-light windows and high ceilings. Back then, homes of this era didn’t have kitchens and bathrooms inside and so these were added on at some point. The kitchen/dining here was smartly done to perfectly maintain the essence of the period. It comes complete with slate floors and a walk in larder/pantry ideal for the jams and preserves and the wine cellar as well as the dry store. A family bathroom and the laundry are located down on this level too.

Off the lounge, the old staircase takes you up to the master bedroom suite. The staircase was removed many owners ago and this room was not used for years, that is before the actual staircase was recently recovered nearby and reinstated. Up here the space is fun. The ceilings are all angled and remind you that you are in the old attic. The spacious bedroom is on one side and the dressing room with an ensuite bathroom is on the other. Cleverly done, the shower recess is in the dormer window, providing great views of the garden and hills as you shower. The dormer windows on the other side allow for views out to the beautiful Huon River.

Back down stairs and out the back, the intrigue doesn’t stop there. Out here it is like having your own private mini historical village. Multiple buildings, all with their own character will each provide you with purpose depending on your needs. A fun guest sleep-out, an art studio a garden summer house and somewhere to set up your woodworking workshop. The garage completes the package. The back wall is a glass hot house and as you open the front door, you are faced with a direct view straight down the lane that leads to the river and the rowing ways. Push your boat down by hand, or carry your kayaks down for an evening paddle. Then sit back on the shores with a glass of wine before casually strolling back home.

There is a strong affiliation with wooden boats here in Franklin. In fact this is the home of the internationally acclaimed wooden boat school and the Living Boat Trust. There is even a group called the Working Waterfront Association. In fact, there are many groups to get involved with in Franklin. The Grand old Palais Theatre just up the road is operated by the community and is the hub for many different events bringing people together. There is a History group and Landcare and the Franklin Progress Association, all are for the betterment and enjoyment of the township. This location is going to get you right in the heart of the Franklin community, and it will provide the surrounds that makes this village such a joy to be part of.