By MATT NICHOLLS
A PORT Macquarie home in the guise of a 14th century gothic church is creating plenty of waves in the real estate market.
More than 200 people attended the first open house inspection for “Hihurstwood” last weekend in what some are calling a record for a Port Macquarie property.
Builder and owner Les Gillette started work on the home 15 years ago and now has it on the market.
Mr Gillette is a well-known local identity, having run his House Doctor business for many years.
He also invented the “body raiser”, a hand-held body surfing device which received national coverage many years ago.
His home was inspired by a trip to the United Kingdom and Europe where Mr Gillette and his wife fell in love with the many medieval churches they toured.
On return, plans were drawn up and work began on a privately located utopian 1500m2 block near the heart of town.
The unique building features 40-foot ceilings, intricate carved woodwork, stained glass windows and an amazing mezzanine level bedroom complete with faux organ pipes, en-suite and a juliette balcony overlooking the cavernous body of the church.
A rustic detached barn serves as a double garage and, with a loft above, provides space for a study or workshop or storage.
The home is to be auctioned on-site at 11am on Saturday 28 September and will be open for inspection each Saturday between 11am and noon.
Listing agent Rex Patterson said he had been amazed by the level of inquiry for such an unusual property, both locally and nationally.
“We’re not sure if it’s going to sell to an artist, a photographer, a nature lover or just someone who wants to own an absolutely unique property,” he said.
Further details are available at www.pattersonrealestate.com.au
