Former home of celebrated Canberra author Marion Halligan on the market

If you were fancifully minded, you might imagine the history of this 1960s house narrated to you in whispers, the voices of myriad characters audible during moments of silence.

However, the home at 6 Caldwell Street in Hackett, which once belonged to the late Marion Halligan, a celebrated Australian novelist, tells its story in other ways.

According to Obi Shadmaan of The Property Collective, Halligan lived here with her family for many years, infusing her style and personality into the property as the decades progressed.

“They extended the home by adding a second storey in 1980, which created a library and a master bedroom with a walk-in wardrobe and en suite,” he says.

“Then in the 1990s, Marion engaged architect Enrico Taglietti to design the kitchen. It’s absolutely impeccable and a key feature of the home.”

The space is inimitable. Large terracotta tiles harmonise with high-set, timber-framed windows, benchtops and open-shelf kitchen cabinetry.

The ceiling soars to the rear, where two sets of double doors lead to the outdoor entertaining area.

“Taglietti had this creative flair around windows, shapes, dimension and depth of space,” Shadmaan says.

“Pockets of light penetrate through triangular windows that capture the external outlook. It’s a beautiful, practical space that allowed Marion, her family and guests to gather together and enjoy each other’s company.”

The double-brick house underwent a recent refurbishment but retains much of its character through timber floors, a retro blue bathroom and a distinguished wood-burning fireplace that serves as a focal point in the main living area.

In addition to its unique architectural details, Shadmaan says the home is spacious and functional for everyday living.

“I expect the buyers to be someone interested in history or a family looking for large spaces, even as a multigenerational option,” he says.

“It has three big living areas, including the second level which can work as a quiet parents’ or teenagers’ retreat, or a rumpus for young kids.

“To a great extent it’s live-in ready but it still lends itself [as] a blank canvas where you can put your own stamp on things. It will be sure to attract a family who want to turn this house into their home.”

The home currently has a price guide of $1.2 million-plus.

$1,300,000

6 Caldwell Street, Hackett ACT 2602

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