Weatherboard, stone, brick; ceiling beams, stained glass, timber cladding — we’re not describing typical residential homes, but rather churches. In a bid to resurrect the glory days of houses of holy around Australia, churches are frequently (and increasingly) being listed for sale, giving the ambitious a chance to live a little differently or create a holiday stay worth talking about, regardless of religious beliefs.
Considering they are constructed to host gatherings of spiritual significance, these builds often contain features that measure up as such: towering ceilings, iconic craftsmanship, leadlight windows and sometimes even heritage details.
So, put country homes among the gum trees to the side, if becoming the custodian of a historical and cultural landmark — and converting it to something liveable — appeals, stop here a moment. Looking for a church for sale? These are the most breathtaking ones around Australia that have either received or are ripe for (respectful) renovation.
8 breathtakingly beautiful churches for sale
42-50 Church Road
Bellarine, VIC
Overlooking the rural scapes of Bellarine and sweeping across three levels, this renovated church offers an escape from the hustle and bustle with every luxury still at your fingertips. Within, soaring timber ceilings are met with a designer kitchen with premium appliances, a mezzanine, and a full-sized spa.
Take a look on realestate.com.au
205-207 Arthurs Seat Road
Red Hill, VIC
This property sale spans not just a landmark church, but also an 1885 historic home, ‘The Sunday School’, and main residence, making it a very lucrative investment with three potential income streams. The property has been updated respectfully, the main residence with its mid-century roots and the church and cottage with their charm. Set upon a private almost 3/4 acre, the homes are bordered by National Trust bushland.
Take a look on realestate.com.au
24 Ashton Street
Wynnum, QLD
If you think this cleverly converted church stuns from the front, just wait until you see what’s out the back. Originally constructed in 1890 as a Methodist church, the property has been carefully reconstructed to fit a residential purpose, and now spans six bedrooms, four bathrooms, a huge infinity-edge swimming pool, and a cutting-edge kitchen with a two-way butler’s pantry.
Take a look on domain.com.au
241 Koroit Street
Warrnambool, VIC
Located right in town, this stunning sandstone church has a commanding street presence. Already converted but with plenty of further potential, the five-bedroom property showcases all the character of Gothic-style architecture. There are beautiful timber floors throughout, heating and air-con, and a private garden with raised garden beds. Family home, restaurant, boutique accommodation… the options here are endless.
Take a look on domain.com.au
1/124 Napier Street
Fitzroy, VIC
This iconic bluestone church has already undergone a respectful conversion that makes it perfect for modern living. Most exquisite are the Ferguson & Ure stained-glass windows that filter light from the front of the building throughout the spaces.
Take a look on domain.com.au
274 Main Western Road
Tamborine Mountain, QLD
This adorable, powder blue weatherboard church sits in the lush forests of Mount Tambourine, nestled opposite Witches Falls. It’s part of the larger opportunity on offer, to own a slice of the lucrative Lisson Grove – both The Abbey and the main residence are up for sale. It’s only 100 metres from the National Park, 4km from boutiques and food hotspots and just 60 minutes from Brisbane.
Take a look on realestate.com.au
‘Dibley’ 1740 Kangaloon Road
Kangaloon, NSW
Built in 1882, this slice of history has been tightly held – until now. Situated in the green, grassy ‘scapes of the NSW Southern Highlands, ‘Dibley’ features soaring ceilings, a stone exterior, exposed beams and Colonial architecture. DA Approval has also already been granted for an architecturally designed home and separate garage to be located upon the property.
Take a look on realestate.com.au
494 Molesworth Road
Molesworth, TAS
Previously known as St Aidan’s Church, this gorgeous property was converted into a residential dwelling back in 1975, and now enjoys an established garden, wood fire, outdoor entertaining area, loft-style bedroom and full kitchen, while still retaining its charm.
Take a look on realestate.com.au
WriterLucy FrancisSenior Content Producer
Lucy Francis has a long-standing love affair with homes that began with a childhood spent picking out the nicest house on each street from the back of her parents' 2000s Subaru. Years later, after completing both a Diploma of Interior Design at Design Centre Enmore and a Bachelor of Media at Macquarie University, she dipped her toe into PR at a bespoke firm specialising in architecture, then went on to produce social media and editorial content at a Sydney agency before settling right at home in…homes.Following a brief stint with Better Homes and Gardens, Lucy has spent several years writing under Homes To Love and managing the digital presence of Inside Out, Real Living and Country Style. It’s here that she can combine her great loves every day: design, architecture, lifestyle, homes, and, of course, words. In her free time, she finds her dream home over and over on real estate websites and spends far too long browsing Facebook Marketplace for mid-century furniture.
Sign up for our newsletter
Sign up to the latest news fromCountry Style, delivered straight to your inbox.
Disclaimer: By joining, you agree to our Privacy Policy & Terms of Use
