The last time this 1856 miner’s cottage hit the market in Beechworth just a few years ago, it looked very different.
Owners Victoria and James Tonkin weren’t even looking to buy when they saw the three-bedroom home come up for sale.
It was considerably run down, with dated pastel walls, peeling paint, and grimy coloured carpet. Still, the couple were completely captivated by the charming weatherboard facade and white picket fence.
‘It’s almost as if the house chose us rather than the other way around,’ Victoria says. ‘We knew we had to be the ones to cherish it and restore it, allowing it to sparkle brighter than ever before.’
They worked with architect Brenton Weisert from Rexroth Mannasmann Collective and Sheringham Construction for a major renovation and extension.
Everything from the original lacework to the kauri pine floors has been restored, while some of the more unsalvageable windows were replaced with replicas. The rear now opens up to a sympathetic extension made up of sunny, open-plan living areas that frame garden views.
This new addition brings modern touches like polished concrete floors, double-glazed windows, and an induction cooktop to the 170-year-old abode. But nothing feels out of place thanks to Victoria’s eclectic interior styling — nodding to its roots as part of the gold rush.
‘Situated in the heart of Beechworth, the home stands as a significant piece of the town’s history,’ Victoria adds.
There’s also something very transportive about the renovated home, which has served as an Airbnb since 2023. Moody accents, timber furniture, and vintage art on the walls add to the lived-in atmosphere, and the main bedroom is the ultimate retreat, complete with an opulent bathroom where you can unwind in a claw foot bath by the warmth of an open fireplace!
Having now listed 11 Loch Street for sale, Victoria says it can be purchased fully furnished.
It’s up to the new buyers if they want to move in, continue running it as short-stay accomodation, or write a new chapter in the history of this heritage home.
11 Loch Street, Beechworth is listed for sale with First National Real Estate – Bonnici & Associates.
