A historic Shoalhaven property that has been given a modern makeover is now on the market.
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Located on just over an acre, 'The Lodge' is at 27a Millbank Road, Terara.
It has a price guide of $1.65 million to $1.7 million.
Arthur and Julijana Griffiths have owned the property for about four years.
"It's been a difficult decision (to sell), because out of all the houses we've had over 25 years - and we've had a few - this is our favourite by far," he said.
"And it has a history that makes it more interesting than any other house we've had I think."
The Lodge was originally part of the Millbank estate, settled by the de Mestre family who came to Australia from the Caribbean island of Martinique.
In 1836, they built Millbank House, which still stands today.
In the 1850s, Millbank House was purchased by the local doctor.
He built The Lodge in circa 1865 as his coachman's cottage, as he used a coach and horses to do his daily rounds of patient visits.
Mr Griffiths said prior to an extension being completed in the 1980s, the National Trust listed the home as heritage worthy, but with no restrictions placed on it for further development.
The home now has three bedrooms plus a library/sitting room and two bathrooms.
Original features include high ceilings with plaster rosettes, polished timber floors with a patina, and working fireplaces.
The modern extension features an open plan north-facing living area with vaulted ceilings and floor to ceiling glass windows overlooking the garden and a rural aspect.
When the current owners purchased The Lodge they were also able to replace the 1980s kitchen with a modern one.
Mr Griffiths said the National Trust was so impressed by the property's melding of old and new that about a year ago the organisation hosted an open day at The Lodge to show its members.
The event was attended by more than 500 people.
Meanwhile, the Griffiths are downsizing but staying on the South Coast.
"The property enjoys vistas of the lush countryside, and amazing sunrises, sunsets and moonscapes across the garden," Mr Griffiths said.
"Because we face north, we get that beautiful winter sun streaming in through the windows. And in summer, it's just fantastic.
"Terara still has that village atmosphere ... It's really got that traditional village feel."
The double garage also has a toilet and wash basin with a large studio/home office above.
There is also an opportunity for dual occupancies that may be carried out with development consent.
Selling agent, Tim McGoldrick from Elders Real Estate Berry said the owners have "created a fantastic synergy to the property with the updates they have made to the giving it modern practicality with old-world charm".
"The home is only minutes to major town conveniences, but feels like it's in a world of its own in the fantastic little community of Terara, on the banks of the Shoalhaven River," he said.
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