Downstairs the front room, once the banking chamber, makes a handsome lounge. Part of the original cedar counter remains as does a marble fireplace and barred arch window to the street.

Next door the formal dining room, once the manager’s office, has a solid timber fireplace surround and built-in cabinetry.

Towards the back is a newly renovated kitchen with stone bench tops, glossy cabinetry and charcoal flooring. French doors open out to the cottage garden. Adjacent, a cosy breakfast room has the same doors.

A further wing takes in the laundry and downstairs bedroom. Self-contained, the bedroom has a door to the yard, lots of windows, and a toilet and shower separated by built-in robe.

On three levels, the first flight of stairs takes you to the airy central bathroom. A second solid cedar staircase takes you to three other bedrooms, two with garden aspects and the spacious main with views across town.

A second palatial lounge gives echoes of yesteryear with a fine marble fireplace, more high ceilings and a small balcony to enjoy the vista in every direction.

Out back the intriguing secret garden is delightfully rambling and landscaped in equal measure with brick paving a variety of flowers in various states of bloom and established trees. There are lots of nooks to sit and just enjoy the serenity in this sanctuary as well as a paved alfresco area. There is plenty of shedding with a studio converted from the original wash house and garage that was once the stables.

With bluestone foundations and three brick thick walls, here is the opportunity to own an iconic part of the Buninyong story. Transform it into a B&B, offices, medical practice, shop, restaurant, live on the top floor and work on the bottom or just keep the ambience to yourself as a private home.

Bed 4 Bath 2 Car 2

Agent: Hockingstuart Ballarat

Phone:  Phil Hayward 0419 107 112

319 Learmonth Street

BUNINYONG

Price: $1 million - $1.1 million

Inspect:  By appointment only