Warrnambool’s ‘big white house on the hill’ stands just three blocks from the CBD, with a commanding street presence and sweeping views. Photo: Angela Jones
A sweeping rural-meets-ocean view and a grand glass staircase have made Warrnambool’s “big white house on the hill” one of the region’s most talked-about homes.
Built by respected local builder Paul Butters, the four-bedroom home at 23 Hyland St combines bold architecture, luxe finishes and knockout views, all just a few blocks from the CBD.
Harris & Wood’s Josh Bermingham said he’s had buyers from out of the area ask if the home was really in Warrnambool.
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“It’s close enough to walk into town, but elevated enough to enjoy panoramic views from paddocks to the ocean,” Mr Bermingham said.
“You simply don’t expect that combination here, especially at this price.”
Listed with a $1.45m-$1.55m price hopes, the near-new home delivers a level of design and quality Mr Bermingham said would cost millions more in towns like Torquay, Ocean Grove or Lorne.
“If you lifted this house and placed it in one of those towns, you’d easily be adding another zero to the asking price,” he said.
The elevated rear deck captures a rare panorama, paddocks to the right, the ocean to the left, a true Warrnambool rarity under $1.6m. Photo: Angela Jones
Designed for all-seasons entertaining, the outdoor kitchen and barbecue zone flows seamlessly from the lower living space to the firepit area. Photo: Angela Jones
Spread across two levels, the home is centred around a soaring entry void with a statement glass and timber staircase.
Upstairs, a wall of windows floods the living and dining zone with natural light, anchored by a floor-to-ceiling stacked stone fireplace.
The kitchen finished with sleek gold tapware, quality appliances and a walk-in butler’s pantry connects seamlessly to an elevated deck with rural outlooks and glimpses of the ocean.
The main suite includes a private balcony, walk-in robe and large ensuite with warm, layered textures.
The dining zone blends warmth anchored by striking pendant lights and framed by floor-to-ceiling glass and layered textures. Photo: Angela Jones
This soaring glass-and-timber staircase has been a talking point for buyers before they even see the listing. Photo: Angela Jones
A second bedroom and powder room complete the upper level.
Downstairs, two further bedrooms, a family bathroom, second living zone and full laundry offer flexibility for growing families or guests.
Stacker doors open to an undercover alfresco and sun-drenched deck overlooking a landscaped firepit zone, designed for year-round entertaining.
With gold tapware, high-end appliances and a full butler’s pantry, the gourmet kitchen pairs style and practicality in a luxury coastal setting. Photo: Angela Jones
The main bathroom features a deep freestanding bath and calming tones — a spa-like escape designed for relaxation. Photo: Angela Jones
There’s also a large garage and workshop under the home, plus side access for additional vehicles or trailers.
Mr Bermingham said other inclusions in the home such as double-glazed windows, a solar system, ducted reverse-cycle heating and cooling, electric blinds and lift-ready design, make the home energy-efficient and futureproof.
“The layout, quality and comfort make it a perfect long-term home,” he said.
Soaring ceilings, a stone gas log fireplace and statement roofline define the open-plan living space — designed to take in both light and landscape. Photo: Angela Jones
Natural tones and ocean-inspired accents ground the main living space, where double-glazed glass frames the ever-changing sky. Photo: Angela Jones
The Harris & Wood agent said sellers Hayley and her partner Brad built the home as a personal project.
Though originally planned as a forever home, the pair are now ready for their next creative chapter.
“They’ve built and sold a few times and just love the process,” Mr Bermingham said.
“Now that this one’s finished, they’re excited to take on the next project.”
A walk-in double shower with rainfall heads and stone tiling brings a luxurious finish to the ensuite bathroom. Photo: Angela Jones
The main suite’s walk-in robe offers full-length mirrors, custom cabinetry and plenty of space for a true dressing room experience. Photo: Angela Jones
He said interest had come from both locals and Melbourne buyers, with the home’s design, location and liveability striking a chord.
“There’s been a really strong response,” he said.
“People are captivated by the quality, and once they step inside, they get it.”
“We actually struggled to find comparables because homes like this are built to be lived in, not sold. If this comes back on the market in under 10 years, I’ll be shocked.”
Every bedroom has been finished with soft neutrals, quality window furnishings and generous built-in storage. Photo: Angela Jones
The private balcony off the main suite offers a peaceful vantage point over the leafy street and rooftops of central Warrnambool. Photo: Angela Jones
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