How European influences have made its mark in Canberra homes

Nostalgia for migrants’ birth countries is often seen through an injection of European influences into home designs around Canberra and the broader region.

Those influences can be subtle or obvious, and as broad as the continent itself, from Denmark to Greece and beyond.

Louise Harget of Belle Property Canberra, who lists this week’s Torrens feature property, says the home shows European influences in its facade, garden and kitchen.

“Paving in the garden and the Provençal tile influence in the kitchen are probably the most obvious indicators,” she says.

“But European influence, more broadly, is just as much about enduring style – natural materials like tiles, marble, exposed beams and timber highlights are classics and never go out of fashion.

Harget says a “Scandi” influence is most evident in mid-century homes, while the Mediterranean style is hallmarked by style choices such as terracotta roof tiles and rendered exteriors.

Jacob Stanton of The Property Collective believes that a level of emotion drives much of the attachment to homes with European influences.

“Some buyers are drawn toward these types of homes because they represent a kind of escape; they may bring back memories of a holiday or some other connection,” he says.

“And, of course, they can appeal strongly to buyers who are looking for homes with character or a real point of differentiation.”

Stanton also agrees that the inclusion of materials with a European heritage, like marble, never go out of fashion.

“And they’re always seen as a hallmark of quality or luxury,” he adds.

History: It could be argued that much of Australia’s residential architecture has its roots in European design, given our colonial heritage. Early influences include Georgian, Gothic revival, Victorian, Italianate and Federation.

Style: There’s no one definition of European design, given the number of countries and eras, but a big driver is perhaps nostalgia for lived memories of their birth countries, from Denmark to Greece.

Influences: These are many and varied and can be detected in homes through an emphasis on natural materials like stone, marble and tiles, or perhaps exposed beams and finishes like stucco.

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Torrens

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There’s a little taste of France within the design of this four-bedroom Torrens home that sits on more than 1500 square metres of landscaped gardens.

While it might have a European pedigree, this two-storey residence is perfectly at home in the bush capital, with direct access to Mount Taylor walking trails.

The entry leads to either an elegant living room with a fireplace and bay-window garden outlook or to the centre of the home with a separate dining area with seating for 10 people.

The kitchen has a large footprint, presents in classic white and offers plenty of storage. A highlight is the blue-and-white tiling that offers a further French accent. There’s an adjoining spacious family room and a separate study.

Upstairs there are four bedrooms and a family bathroom highlighted by hand-painted Italian tiles.

The main bedroom has an en suite and views of the adjoining Mount Taylor Nature Reserve.

Comfort is provided through central heating and cooling.

The landscaped rear garden offers a paved entertaining area, a water feature, a fire pit and a level lawn. There are mature trees, a hedge and reserve access.

A double garage has been converted into a kids’ den/gym area that offers even more living options.

The home is close to the Woden town centre, Southlands shops, Canberra Hospital and schools including Marist College, Melrose High and Sacred Heart Primary.

Auction: 10am, August 5

Agent: Belle Property Canberra, Louise Harget 0412 997 894