32 Lyell Street, Taradale, Vic 3447

Steeped in character and shaped by the soulful hands of artists, collectors and creatives, Maltby House is a one-of-a-kind country retreat, offered for the first time in decades. Once the beloved weekender of Geoffrey Hatty, one of Australia's most influential 20th-century decorative arts dealers, who spent a lifetime in decorative arts, this remarkable property reflects a rare convergence of design sensibility, natural beauty, and quiet history. With unparalleled views to the historic Taradale Viaduct, once the largest structure of its kind, this property is more than a home - it's a living canvas of legacy, craftsmanship, and natural wonder.

Set across three crown allotments on two titles, the home is nestled within an established English-style garden of grand heritage plantings: an extraordinary 125-year-old Mulberry (circa 1901), Claret Ashes nearing 80 years, Liquid Amber, Golden Ash, and more. Meandering paths lead through sweeping lawns and thoughtful dry-stone landscaping, including walls crafted by Dennis Rixon, a French railway gate, and striking Harcourt granite retaining walls. A creek runs through the property, crossed by a charming stone bridge, and there's even a swimming dam with a diving board - perfect for summer dips under the stars.

The property holds deep historical roots, having once been home to the Maltby family, one of Taradale's earliest and most respected settler families, spanning 5 generations. Known for their skilled craftsmanship and strong ties to the local community, the Maltbys left a lasting legacy at Maltby House through the stonework that still defines much of the home's character today, including the front boundary fence, an impressive stone fireplace, and sections of the home's exterior stonework. This connection adds another rich layer of provenance to an already remarkable property.

Inside, the home is both warm and intimate, with Tassie Oak hardwood floors, wool carpets, and a recently renovated smart kitchen. There are three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a music room or second living area complete with a Maltby stone fireplace. Slate flagstones, sourced from the Maltby family's Castlemaine Slate and Rock in the 1970s, bring an earthy richness to the floors - a quiet nod to the region's storied past and the legacy of local craftsmanship.

Whether you're seeking a romantic country retreat, a creative escape, or a property with future potential, Maltby House offers a wealth of possibilities. With three crown allotments on two titles, there's scope to subdivide (STCA) or simply enjoy the undulating land and spectacular views as is. The substantial brick garage/workshop with expansive yard could suit an artist's studio, work-from-home base, or be converted into a second dwelling (STCA) - ideal for guests, multi-generational living, or even short-stay accommodation. The versatility of the site ensures it can evolve with your lifestyle or vision, making it a rare and enduring investment in the heart of historic Taradale.

Maltby House has been celebrated in Karen McCartney's acclaimed book The Alchemy of Things, a fitting recognition for a home so deeply shaped by artistic intent, texture, and thoughtful layering. The property has been shaped by curious minds, where every corner tells a story, and every stone seems to hum with history.