Top 4 open homes in Canberra and NSW surrounding areas this weekend

Certain places, neighbourhoods and homes leave lasting impressions in your lifetime. Driving past the park I used to frequent as a child brings back a flood of happy memories and the block where my university residence once stood tall, where I made life-long friendships, has since been demolished and is primed for a new chapter.

Of course, recollections of our first home have also shaped who we are – whether that’s where we grew up or perhaps our first home purchase. I’m lucky enough to call two places home.

Living in Canberra has taught me to see the city through a real estate lens and has opened up my eyes to a new appreciation of my hometown on the east coast of NSW, from where I write this week’s editor’s letter.

This week, I’m looking back at the capital from the outside and the calibre of homes in our weekly edit of standout properties for sale never ceases to amaze me, from a residence built into the natural mountainside in The Ridgeway, NSW, to a grand entertainer in Canberra’s Molonglo Valley region.

It’s a nostalgic feeling, being in one place while reflecting on another, and I can’t help but smile and think the grass is greener on both sides.

The Ridgeway

View property

Nestled among towering trees and positioned on the ridgeline overlooking Canberra and Queanbeyan is this captivating home – so fascinating, that you’d expect Grand Design’s Kevin McCloud to walk out the front door with a camera crew in tow.

The design details throughout the home are simply impeccable. Every room maintains a distinctive look that makes you feel a little different as you walk through the home.

But what really gets the heart racing is the pool and entertaining area. Because not only is it surrounded by the most thoughtfully established garden, it maintains the kind of $40 million views sought after in the Hollywood Hills.

It’s safe to say that from the location through to the lifestyle, at 51 Ridgeway Road no compromise has been made.

Price guide: $2 million +

Auction: 5pm, November 12

Agent: Belle Property Kingston, Samantha Granter 0402 507 902

Pearce

View property

This family residence offers a modern elegance that is enhanced by its prime location in a quiet and leafy cul-de-sac. The well-maintained gardens create a natural privacy screen, which adds to the street appeal.

Stepping through the large formal entrance, you notice the timeless design with split-levels, high ceilings, double-glazed windows, grand staircase and sandstone walls.

A segregated main bedroom upstairs has spacious walk-in wardrobes, a modern en suite, the added benefit of a nursery or study space and private terrace with views towards Isaacs Ridge.

Outdoor entertaining is provided via a split-level deck and paved rear yard with space for a firepit and additional seating. Venture a little further and you’ll find a Wi-Fi-enabled spa.

Price guide: $1.25 million +

Auction: 11.30am, November 14

Agent: Independent Woden, Jonathan Charles 0413 909 158

Denman Prospect

View property

A 2018 MBA Award winner for landscape design and construction is now on the market. Designed to entertain the whole family, the home takes living to a grand scale and captures views of Black Mountain Tower and the Arboretum.

Spend your summer weekends relaxing by the pool or on chilly winter afternoons cosy up to the fireplace.

Inside, you’ll be greeted by the high ceilings, beautiful herringbone tiles in the entryway and a wealth of natural light thanks to the double-glazed skylights.

The kitchen will also be a family favourite with top-of-the-line AEG appliances, including an integrated fridge and freezer, and a built-in wine fridge.

Price guide: $1.985 million +

Expressions of interest: Close November 19

Agent: Kolak Living, Hamzah Asfour 0408 038 314

Campbell

View property

Contemporary, clean lines, bold features and quality fixtures combine to create this luxe townhouse in Campbell.

It features a bespoke kitchen with stone benchtops, Miele appliances and custom cabinetry. Upstairs you’ll find a living/media room with a soaring void overlooking the gathering spaces below.

The spacious living and dining area flows seamlessly to the outdoor courtyard, making entertaining your families and friends a breeze.

The property is only a short distance from Canberra Centre and is in close proximity to all of the capital’s landmarks including Lake Burley Griffin and the Australian War Memorial.

Price guide: $1.65 million

Private sale

Agent: Belle Property Kingston, Samantha Granter 0402 507 902