An extensive renovation has transformed the homestead at 166 Russell Rd, Bannockburn.
A premium renovation has helped add $2m to the value a rural Bannockburn estate with scope for a thoroughbred business.
Heath and Amy Keenan have transformed the former residence at their 36.42ha property to create a sprawling family haven.
They hope opening up the rear of their five-bedroom house to capitalise on expansive Moorabool Valley views will pay big dividends after listing it for $3.8m to $3.999m.
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A gas log fireplace and timber floorboards feature in the main living area.
Mr Keenan said he had visions of running a thoroughbred training or spelling operation from 166 Russell Rd, Bannockburn, but other work commitments had pulled him in a different direction.
However, a buyer could capitalise on improved infrastructure, including 11 yards with shelter boxes, a 830m training track and horse swimming facilities.
The renovated homestead itself is designed around a swimming pool and spa, with a poolside pavilion for outdoor entertaining.
Mr Keenan said his teenagers had lots of use out of another separate “party shed”, which includes a full kitchen.
Uninterrupted views of the Moorabool Valley are a highlight of the homestead.
The kitchen has dual wall ovens, a butler’s sink and a large walk-in pantry.
Wake up to this view every day.
“The pool house has got an open fire so during the winter we watch a lot of sport in there as a family and in summer we open it up and it joins in with the pool,” he said.
He said the original house didn’t have any windows across the back, but his wife came up with the idea of creating a wall of glass to capture the view.
A vast main living space featuring cathedral ceilings with exposed rafters is the centrepiece of the redesign.
The former kitchen has been turned into a sunken lounge, paving way for a replacement with a servery window connected to the outdoor entertainment zone.
Mr Keenan said they had also renovated a separate self-contained cottage for visiting in-laws and friends.
The pool house has an outdoor kitchen and can be closed up for year-round use.
This 15m by 29m shed has power and water connections, three stables, a kitchen, two toilets, showers and a fire.
Both the ensuite (pictured) and family bathroom have freestanding bathtubs.
“If a family was to go out (to the property) with teenagers, you’re not climbing over the top of each other,” he said.
“That was the idea … to make it an engaging place where our kids wanted to bring their friends.”
Buxton listing agent Daniel Salter said the property had much to offer as an equestrian haven, productive farm or a country retreat.
“It really is an amazing lifestyle property with amazing proximity to Geelong and the actual homestead itself is spectacular,” he said.
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