Positioned in the very heart of Franklin, a picturesque riverside village, this extraordinary property blends heritage charm with inspired modern living and is packed with visual appeal. Built in 1860, the original stone church stands as a testament to Franklin’s history, while the adjoining church hall has been thoughtfully transformed into a character-filled residence — together offering a rare and versatile opportunity with multiple options.
The light-filled church, with soaring ceilings and distinctive arched windows, create a fabulous sense of space as you step inside through the solid timber door. This space has hosted art exhibitions, workshops, performances and private events, showcasing its incredible flexibility. The addition of a contemporary accommodation pod complements the building’s timeless features, creating an artistic, soulful atmosphere. Meeting a gold standard with the Heritage Council, the post-modern cube stands independent within the room consisting of a mezzanine bedroom from which the views over the church and the Huon River are quite special. Underneath is a stylish bathroom with shower and separate bath. Around the back, a kitchenette completes this area to be self-contained, also super practical for event catering. A large fan-forced slow-combustion wood fire keeps the church warm throughout the cooler months.
Through the gates into the fully fenced yard, leads to the beautiful arched timber doors to the residence at the rear. Once the Church Hall, it retaining many of its enchanting hallmarks - from wide hardwood floorboards, etched with Sunday school carvings and a cathedral ceiling to stone arches, stained glass and mosaic stairs and floors. The open plan living space, with its cathedral ceiling, is divided into lounge, dining and extra space ideal as a library nook or study. Warmed by a slow-combustion wood fire, adding to the wonderful atmosphere and hydronic heating throughout, you will be comfortable all year round. Up the mosaic stairs, on the mezzanine level, the master bedroom features a walk-in robe, while the spacious bathroom combines William Morris English wallpaper with weathered timber features for a timeless appeal.
Stepping through to the country-style kitchen is a further delight for the senses. Rich in history and equipped with European appliances, timber bench-tops, and an amazing decorative mosaic floor, this room tells many stories of its past. Bi-fold doors open out to the entertaining deck with a gorgeous mature Olive tree and the stone garden wall as the backdrop. Connecting the church to the main residence, the former vestry now offers an additional bedroom, opening out to the garden via French doors. Ideal as a guest room or additional B&B space. This room is the split between the front Church and the Rear Residence, allowing you to add the bedroom to the pod accommodation or to the residence as you may require. All together, the property offers 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. There are 3 toilets, the 3rd one comes with its own fun story.
The garden is well thought through. Terraced at the back with a side gate provides easy rear access for mulch or storage of a trailer or boat. A stone and timber garden shed is handy for the gardening tools. The garden is very pretty, yet low-maintenance and very private. The stone wall is just amazing. Such a beautifully preserved part of the history, completing the visual appeal of the property. Meticulously maintained, the buildings and grounds are in fantastic condition, a real testament to the owner who believes he is merely the custodian of this fabulous property. A framed, original wax-sealed deed of title is included — a wonderful piece of history on display.
Directly opposite the property is a park reserve leading to the Huon River, with views of boats, black swans and Franklin’s historic waterfront. The vibrant local community is home to the Wooden Boat Centre, Palais Theatre, Living Boat Trust and Huon Rowing Club, as well as a selection of eateries to choose from. Just minutes from Huonville, the main hub of the Huon Valley and a picturesque 40-minute drive to the Hobart CBD.
Zoned “Village”, allowing both residential and business use, this property offers enormous potential — as a home, creative hub, accommodation business, or inspiring place to live and work. In recent years, the property has been both a residence and a popular award winning B&B accommodation operating as Abbey On Main.
A rare opportunity to own a piece of Tasmanian history — beautifully restored, richly storied, and ready for its next chapter.
Please contact us for further information or to arrange a private viewing.
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