Doma Group's newest reno development set for Woden

A well-executed building renovation that retains character is what property dreams are made of. You have only to look at the success of reality TV series The Block, as proof.

So, when one of Canberra’s renowned residential developers, Doma Group, announced the revitalisation of two vacant buildings in Woden, Canberrans have been gearing up for something spectacular.

Built in the 1960s, the Alexander and Albemarle buildings are the bones of A&A, a genuine warehouse-style development that will soon be home to 186 lucky residents.

A combination of one, two and three-bedroom apartments and lofts are available. Designed by Cox Architects, they present spacious layouts, towering 3.4-metre ceilings and an industrial vibe that you’ll be hard pressed finding elsewhere in Canberra.

Each apartment will have exposed concrete soffits, brick feature walls, engineered timber boards in living spaces, New Zealand wool carpet in sleeping quarters and stone tiles in wet areas.

Two-colour palettes are on offer, one scheme referencing a cool industrial studio and the other the lightness of an art gallery.

“With the affordable end of the Canberra market dominated by high-density, compact plasterboard boxes, we saw an opportunity in A&A for lower-density, high-quality, oversized apartments that are still accessible to first-home owners, as well as investors and downsizers,” Doma managing director Jure Domazet says.

“The exteriors of the buildings will be completely refreshed but celebrate on the strong architecture of the original design.”

The reinvigoration of the buildings will carry downwards to the street, with boutique retail spaces and a precinct-style “eat street”.

“The large courtyard space between the buildings will be activated with a mix of vendors including a commercial gym and brewery,” agent Thomas Bell says.

Residents will be within walking distance to a host of amenities including Westfield Woden, public transport and other restaurants and bars (the Hellenic Club serves $5 cocktails on Fridays – you’re welcome).

“Woden town centre is on the brink of a complete resurgence and purchasers at A&A should be looking to capitalise on this,” Bell says.

Expected completion date is late 2019.

A&A

35-45 Furzer Street, Woden

Price guide: $325,900-$589,900 +

EER: 6+

Agent: Colliers International, Thomas Bell 0410 426 662