Renovated heritage property combines the best of old and new in Queanbeyan

There are some lovely heritage homes around, absolutely dripping with history and pleading for a new lease of life.

Kudos, then, to the inspired souls willing to take on a likely labyrinth of red tape and inevitable emotional rollercoaster to bring these gems into the 21st century.

Aaron Papahatzis of Belle Property Queanbeyan, who lists this week’s Queanbeyan feature property, says the Kathleen Street home has bones going back a century.

“This has seen an extension and renovation in recent times, complementing its early 20th century origins,” he says.

“I think that success is through an approach that has been sympathetic to its character.”

Papahatzis says the owners had sought to preserve its history while elevating it to meet contemporary living expectations.

“The result has perfectly blended character with modern lifestyle convenience,” he says.

Philip Leeson Architects provides a Heritage Advisory Service on behalf of the ACT Heritage Council.

Practice principal Philip Leeson says owners and buyers, and their architects and builders, should be aware of comprehensive guidelines that apply to heritage properties and precincts.

“Anyone considering buying into either should ensure they understand what that means for renovations or extensions,” he says.

“The guidelines ensure the heritage character of a heritage precinct is preserved, but offer flexibility to suit many design interpretations for individual homes.”

Leeson says the Heritage Advisory Service provides free advice, a valuable first stop before any big decisions are made.

“These insights can really help those going into the heritage process with a greater level of understanding,” he says.

What to know when renovating a heritage home

Considering renovating a heritage property. Here are some of the key things you need to know before you start.

Cost

A heritage renovation or extension is not for the faint-hearted. It can easily cost as much or more than a new build, and preservation requirements can push the budget into unwelcome territory.

Time

Heritage authorities make decisions within a welter of guidelines, and the application process can demand patience, detailed documentation and strict compliance. Be prepared with an extra layer of research.

Planning

Heritage properties can need era-specific materials and the attention of specialty tradespeople with relevant expertise. Other considerations include disruptions in supply chains or scheduling that can derail the best-laid plans.

Heritage Queanbeyan home for sale

Everything old is new again when the 1920s meets the 2020s in this meticulously renovated and extended Queanbeyan home.

Its art nouveau and bungalow-style origins, along with sympathetic updates, were recognised when it won the prestigious Heritage Homes Queanbeyan Award in 2021.

Another local claim to fame is that the home was built in the 1920s by the then Queanbeyan mayor. It all adds up to a rich history that has delivered a home of great character.

That’s found in detail like wide verandahs, high ceilings, cornices, stained glass, golden Cyprus pine floors, a striking fireplace, oak mantlepiece, pendant lighting, and even original light switches.

The floor plan is essentially one of two halves: the bedrooms and the living areas.

The luxurious main-bedroom en suite is a spa-like retreat, featuring a copper bath, dual shower heads and bespoke fittings.

The spacious dining, living and family areas showcase many of the home’s character features and highlight its grand proportions.

The renovated kitchen draws in an abundance of natural light and shows off feature brick, plenty of bench space and storage, and classic black and white tiling. The hardware includes a Belling cooktop, copper range hood, and ceramic basins.

There’s a surprise bonus loft, perfect as a home office, teenager retreat or maybe as a movie room.

The outside offers a covered entertaining area with a built-in barbecue, a shed/studio and a carport on the 639-square-metre block.

$1,375,000

32 Kathleen Street, Queanbeyan NSW 2620

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Period homes for sale in Canberra

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This renovated home showcases original features, including high ceilings and timber floors, alongside contemporary upgrades.

By negotiation

2 Geerilong Gardens, Reid ACT 2612

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Originally crafted in 1935 by the Commonwealth Architect the home has undergone extensive renovation to combine heritage character with modern living.

$1,790,000-$1,990,000

57 Weston Street, Yarralumla ACT 2600

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Retaining many of its original features of the time this home is move-in ready and ripe for a creative refresh down the track.