'Special without being pretentious': Unique Berrima property hits the market

In the heritage village of Berrima in the Southern Highlands is a property that combines history, Georgian inspiration and innovative design choices.

Affectionately known as The Paddock House, the home is a configuration of five galvanised-iron pavilions that is reflective of early Australian architecture. Polished concrete floors, high white walls and multi-paned, double-glazed windows create the perfect marriage between old and new. 

Selling agent Sarah Wotton of Di Jones Real Estate Southern Highlands said the distinctiveness of the home lent itself to its location. 

“It’s unique in referencing the old while also being innovative, and therefore is quite iconic,” she said. 

“What is really good and unusual about this property is … its profile, materials used and separate pavilion style, which is emblematic of that period where buildings were separate to others. 

“It is an incredibly high-quality build, but it is special without being pretentious, which is really what singles it out,” Wotton said, adding, “Berrima is one of the best sort of versions of a Georgian colonial town still standing in the Southern Highlands.” 

Inside the house are vintage and custom-designed pieces, including crystal artisan lighting, a wallpaper feature wall, a custom-made island bench and a recycled-brick fireplace. 

In combination with its modern features, the house extends its uniqueness through inspiration from the past, including the history of its own location.

“The owners, who did the whole thing, uncovered beautiful old china, coins [and some other] really interesting things from excavation,” Wotton said. 

“A beautiful assortment of them has been retained and showcased in an in-ground cabinet.”

Wotton said interest in The Paddock House has been high, especially from people with artistic pursuits. 

The front, smaller pavilion is separate from the larger main living area. Tucked away at the rear of the 2023-square-metre property, it could allow “for certain retail pursuits or Airbnb opportunities”. 

“The residence itself is at the back [of the property], so it marries the ability to be both private and have good exposure if and as you want it,” Wotton said.

“It is also a jaw-dropping property [with] incredible curb appeal. As it’s part of the streetscape of Berrima opposite a park, it’s sort of a show-stopper, really.”

The opportunities of this property do not end there, with possible alternative purposes for the front pavilion.