Geelong 128 Fitzroy Street

Built in the early 1900s and kept within the same family for almost a century, this bungalow-style home on a corner block is a rare opportunity to become part of Geelong’s history. The unique property is like a time capsule from a bygone era with its formal dining room, swanky bar, high-ceilinged bedrooms and narrow staircases; one leads up to a large versatile attic space, the other downwards to a reinforced bomb shelter from World War II. The backyard includes an alfresco beneath an attractive Jacaranda, a petrol pump adjacent to the Verner Street driveway from when an electrician ran his business from the property, remains of an extravagant fishpond which have been incorporated into the garden, and plenty of space to renovate or extend to make the property your own.

Walking through this special home feels like stepping back in time. Period leadlight adorns the front door and verandah, internal walls are lined with distinctive textured concrete rendering, there are hardwood timber floorboards underfoot and original light fixtures and quirky nooks and crannies add to the home’s charm. Bedrooms are well-sized and one comes with in-built storage. A separate sitting room (or third bedroom) includes a unique pre-war briquette heater and further in-built cabinetry. The combined formal lounge/piano room, dining room and bar is bursting with character and it’s not difficult to imagine the ritzy soirees that would have once taken place here.

The kitchen has been partially modernised to improve functionality and the bathroom has been completely renovated with fresh white tiles and contrasting matte black tapware. Its contemporary design juxtaposes with the nearby vintage cooler chest and hand-washing station, providing a glimpse of what is possible in terms of further renovations incorporating both old and new. Upstairs, the skylighted attic comes with flexible usage options. It allows easy access to the roof space - handy when renovating! - and with vision could be transformed into a fourth bedroom, further storage or a home office.

There is vehicle access from both Fitzroy and Verner streets with a single garage at the former and a single carport at the latter. Location-wise, you can’t get much more convenient; it’s close to primary and secondary schools, sporting facilities, Geelong Hospital, the commercial/business centre and public transport options including South Geelong Train Station making commuting a breeze. Furthermore, it’s just a short drive to enjoy the beaches, wineries and golf courses of the nearby Bellarine Peninsula and adventures along the Great Ocean Road, all while being only an hour’s drive from Melbourne.

128 Fitzroy Street represents an unparalleled opportunity to take on your dream project. This incredible property is ideally suited to passionate renovators seeking a romantic legacy project and keen to preserve some of its important heritage value; a chance to restore part of the home to its former glory, with potential to make your mark on this truly unique historical site with an architecturally-designed modern addition.

Charming historically significant 1900s bungalow Characterful original features throughout Petrol pump, bunker, cooler chest, attic and remnant fish pond Corner block with convenient dual vehicle access Excellent location: shops, schools, sports and transport nearby A unique and exciting renovation project: dream big!