For the discerning buyer seeking an authentic rural tree change without compromise, this exceptional architect-inspired residence represents seventeen years of thoughtful stewardship, transforming a bare paddock into one of the region's most distinguished country estates. For more detailed information, 3D tours, Videos visit the dedicated property website www.31hartleyroad.com
A Home Built for Living
From the moment you traverse the meandering crushed gravel driveway, bordered by a stunning avenue of mature maples that create a verdant tunnel in summer and a blaze of autumn colour, the sophistication of this 20-acre holding becomes immediately apparent. The owners, having designed and built every element themselves, have created a home where architectural integrity and livability converge seamlessly.
The residence's intelligent orientation captures the best of each day. Morning light floods the study and rumpus room, while the main living pavilion and outdoor entertaining spaces bask in glorious afternoon sun – perfect for those spectacular western sunsets and occasional morning rainbows that paint the rural skies. Floor-to-ceiling double-glazed windows frame ever-changing vistas across established gardens to distant horizons.
Effortless Comfort, Exceptional Efficiency
This is a home engineered for year-round comfort with minimal environmental impact. Fully insulated to exacting standards (R6 ceiling, R4 walls including internal), the residence features hydronic underfloor heating throughout polished concrete floors, powered by an efficient heat pump. A 6KW solar array dramatically reduces energy costs – from approximately $300 monthly in the depths of winter to a mere $50 in summer's warmth.
The thoughtful design extends to natural climate control. Large sliding doors at opposing ends of the home create remarkable cross-ventilation, harnessing those reliable afternoon breezes to maintain comfort even on warm days. Remote-controlled blinds in key areas provide additional climate management at the touch of a button.
Spaces for Every Moment
The open-plan living heart of the home flows effortlessly to a generous covered alfresco with full outdoor kitchen – the property's jewel for entertaining. Multiple intimate outdoor retreats dot the landscape: the sun-drenched deck off the rumpus room (a year-round afternoon sun trap), a charming fire-pit area, and various carefully positioned seating areas that invite you to pause and absorb the extraordinary tranquility.
The master suite offers a private sanctuary with sweeping rural views, complemented by a luxurious ensuite and walk-in robe with extensive storage. Two additional spacious bedrooms feature substantial built-in robes and their own captivating vistas. The thoughtfully segregated bedroom wing ensures privacy and peace.
For those requiring additional accommodation, the generous study – bathed in morning light with enchanting garden views – could effortlessly convert to a fourth bedroom, while the versatile rumpus room and the fully serviced garden studio space (currently used for olive oil production) present further opportunities for guest suites, home office, or other on-site enterprise.
Storage solutions abound throughout, from the butler's pantry and walk-in wine cellar to the substantial 115-square-meter shed – ample space for vehicles, equipment, or hobbyist pursuits.
Sustainable Living, Elevated
Self-sufficiency meets sophistication here. Water security is exceptional: a substantial 110,000-litre rainwater tank services the residence (the owners report never running out), and a huge dam connected to separate tanks provides water security for the broader property and ensures the established gardens remain verdant and thriving all year round.
The on-property septic system eliminates sewage costs entirely, while council collection services rubbish and recycling. Gas for cooking and hot water requires only approximately five bottles annually, further reducing ongoing costs.
The walled kitchen garden produces abundant vegetables and herbs, while established fruit trees and the opportunity to continue the olive oil tradition (complete with a fully serviced bottling room that could alternatively serve as guest accommodation or studio) speak to a lifestyle connected to the land. The extremely fertile soils and comprehensive water infrastructure mean virtually anything you wish to grow will flourish.
A Garden Seventeen Years in the Making
Every tree, every garden bed, every thoughtfully placed native planting represents nearly two decades of patient cultivation. The result is a mature landscape of remarkable diversity and beauty – from the productive olive groves to the extensively planted grounds surrounding the residence. Spring brings waves of flowering displays, while the property maintains interest across all seasons.
Established windbreaks provide shelter without compromising the sense of spaciousness. Native forest to the east, mature screening plantings around the home, and the absence of near neighbors ensure absolute privacy. Rock beaching along driveways and landscaped areas near the house provides excellent drainage while adding textural interest.
Wildlife as Your Neighbours
This is a property alive with native fauna. Kangaroos graze regularly across summer and autumn. A resident koala visits every few weeks. Echidnas fossick through the gardens, and occasionally a wombat makes an appearance. The birdlife is extraordinary – from delicate finches and wrens to soaring wedge-tailed eagles.
The Meeniyan Advantage
While the property offers profound privacy and seclusion, the vibrant township of Meeniyan sits moments away, punching well above its weight for amenities. An excellent supermarket, sophisticated Italian-style deli, quality coffee, and pizza complement the internationally renowned Meeniyan Hall music venue, which attracts world-class performers. The Great Southern Bike Trail passes nearby, while the beaches and wilderness of Wilsons Promontory National Park beckon within easy reach.
The broader region has established itself as Victoria's premier foodie destination, with award-winning wineries, a cidery, artisan cheese makers, craft breweries, and a distillery all within the local area. Community life is active and welcoming for those who wish to participate.
A Rare Opportunity
Properties of this caliber – where design excellence, environmental sensitivity, established gardens, and genuine rural acreage converge – rarely become available. This is a home that has been loved, nurtured, and continuously refined. The foundations have been laid for a lifestyle of comfort, beauty, and connection to the land.
Did we mention the awards? This home was the recipient of not one but two Building Designers Association of Victoria awards in 2012!
Most Innovative Kitchen Design
Best Residential Design - New Houses
For those ready to embrace an authentic tree change without sacrificing modern comforts or sophistication, 31 Hartley Road awaits.
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