8 Horn St, Houghton

Coming across this converted Houghton church five years ago was something of a hallelujah moment for Tammy and Mark Michalski.

Looking to settle in Adelaide from Canberra, the pair visited the stunning Horn St home “on a whim” – and their property prayers were answered.

8 Horn St, Houghton

“We couldn’t believe there was a church for sale in Adelaide in such a slice of paradise,” Mrs Michalski says. “We’ve absolutely loved it here.

“We didn’t know much about Houghton and just drove up the hill and fell in love with the house and the town. It’s so beautiful up here. It’s amazing – no-one seems to really know much about it. It’s just tucked behind Inglewood and pretty small … and tightly held. Lots of people have been here for a long time. It’s a really nice neighbourhood – everyone’s really friendly.”

8 Horn St, Houghton

Built in 1866 as the town’s Methodist church, the property has a strong sense of history, Mrs Michalski says.

“I guess when we first visited we weren’t really in the market for a church, but we both have a love of architecture and unique properties … so when we saw it we fell in love with it.

“It had been renovated when we bought it – and we have done some renovations since – but we just loved the land, the openness and the fact it was still close to Tea Tree Plaza.”

The clever church conversion and extension celebrates its past while providing a contemporary spacious lifestyle all on one level.

8 Horn St, Houghton

The original church has been respectfully transformed into a light-filled large living space enhanced by magnificent windows, a fireplace, feature timber floors and high ceilings.

Offering three bedrooms – the main also featuring a private courtyard, walk-in robe and luxurious ensuite – two living spaces, study, two bathrooms and above ground cellar/store room, the extension offers the best in low-maintenance living.

The Michalskis added the home’s stunning JAG kitchen, which was designed with the foodie in mind – complete with stove, two ovens, a Miele dishwasher and 2-pac cabinetry. A new Velux double skylight in the kitchen also adds to what is a great space for entertaining.

8 Horn St, Houghton

The extensive 2355sqm block has been beautifully landscaped to create a tranquil and enjoyable space, with something for every green thumb to appreciate, from rolling lawns and elegant hedges to a vegie patch and ventilation-controlled glass house. There is also a mini-orchard and a “chicken palace”, while a paved outdoor entertaining area and a large garden shed/workshop add to the home’s flexibility.

“We’ve loved the garden – the property has got such beautiful grounds,” Mrs Michalski says. “And we’ve loved the fact it’s such a unique building … but besides the property, the whole community is really lovely as well.”

8 Horn St, Houghton

Mrs Michalski says it is an “extremely regretful” sale but growing family commitments are prompting a move “down the hill”, possibly to Tea Tree Gully or Golden Grove.

“We’re pretty sad about it, but such is life. Hopefully we’ll find something that feels a bit unique, but we’ll have to see what comes up.”

8 Horn St, Houghton

She says the property is likely to appeal to anyone looking for their slice of heaven in a rural setting. “I do see the property appealing maybe to downsizers – people who might be moving from the city and looking for something like this as a bit of a hobby. I could also see it for younger families if they’re looking for a bit of land as well.”

The home is in walking distance to Anstey Hill Recreation Park while the St Agnes Shopping Centre is also within easy reach.

8 Horn St, Houghton

$990,000 to $1.08 million

Agent: Harcourts Williams Luxury in conjunction with Hunt Lifestyle, Dee-Anne Hunt 0411 555 774. Land size: 2355sqm.