Home of the Week: a charming neighbour to The Lodge

Not everyone can say they live across the street from the Prime Minister, but the new custodian of this Deakin cottage certainly will.

Perfectly poised opposite The Lodge, with a distinguished address on National Circuit, this red-brick beauty holds its own.

Set on 2016 square metres of beautifully manicured gardens, the home is steeped in character, offering plenty of charm from a bygone era without feeling dated.

High ceilings, sash windows and ornate cornices bring the craftsmanship, while modern updates ensure comfortable family living.

A stately semi-circular driveway not only adds to the home’s grandeur but also offers a gracious welcome and effortless off-street parking.

The layout includes five bedrooms, the fifth of which can double as a library. The main-bedroom suite has a walk-through wardrobe and en suite, while bedroom two also boasts an en suite and views over the pool.

The formal dining and sitting rooms are each anchored by a period fireplace.

The kitchen, updated yet understated, flows into the sunlit family room and out to a generous terrace where summer lunches will no doubt carry on until dusk.

Agent Alexander Smout of Belle Property Canberra says there are few homes with such an outstanding location.

“This is a gorgeous cottage, perched perfectly upon a generational landholding on one of Canberra’s finest streets,” he says.

Beyond the lush boundaries, an automated in-ground sprinkler system keeps the gardens picture-perfect year-round.

$4,150,000+

72 National Circuit, Deakin ACT 2600

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Tall trees provide seclusion, while a full-sized pool promises long afternoons of escape.

And hidden beneath the four-car garage? A temperature-controlled wine cellar – because diplomatic negotiations tend to require a good bottle or two.

Surrounding area

Deakin is a suburb fit for the head of the country – and more than a few diplomats too. Top schools and boutique shopping are close by, and some of Canberra’s top cafes will become your go-tos. It’s not uncommon to see a kangaroo or two hopping past as you sip your morning coffee.