Rare house in bustling Braddon offers space for kids and cars

24 Farrer Street, Braddon
$1.8 million-plus
5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 5 car spaces

A conservative budget and a desire for a big block led a young couple to a cottage-sized home in Farrer Street, Braddon, in 1979.

Back then homes in this inner-city suburb were close neighbours to car yards, panel shops and delis selling pies and flavoured milk.

Fast forward 38 years and the same couple have witnessed the transformation of their suburb into a buzzing cafe and restaurant precinct.

At the same time, their once cosy cottage has undergone its own renaissance and evolved into a five bedroom, three-bathroom home with parking for five vehicles.

Homeowner Maureen Hartung says the house had undergone several extensions as the family grew.

“Everyone needed their space and we worked with architects to ensure the extensions were sympathetic to the character of the building,” she says.

“We wanted to ensure it retained its homely feel, rather than just keep adding boxes to it.”

A number of the rooms have been used as studies and even as a photographic darkroom.

“There’s always been a space for somebody to do their own thing, inside or outside,” Maureen says.

The garden has been one of her ongoing delights and Maureen acknowledges a bonus that she inherited from the previous owners.

“They produced fruit and vegetables for the local markets; consequently the soil is enriched and perfect for growing,” she says.

The home sits on a 1412 square metre block and is walking distance to the CBD and even to Mount Ainslie.

“It really is a family kind of home, with plenty of space inside and outside for kids to grow up in. And the ability to walk everywhere can’t be beaten,” Maureen says.

Auction: Saturday, March 25, 2pm, onsite. Inspect: Saturday, March 11, 10am-11am; Tuesday, March 14, 5pm-5.30pm. Agent: Luton Properties Canberra City, James Carter 0413 974 912