Top 5 homes to see in Canberra this weekend

We always notice the “big” things in a home at first sight – the floor plan, the space, the fireplace – but it’s only after looking closely that you really come to appreciate the finer details.

It’s certainly true of features that tend to be annoying (that cupboard door that won’t quite close, the tragic paint job in the spare room), but also, the beautiful things.

Having lived in our new home for three months now – and spending more time homebound than ever before – I’ve really come to appreciate the finer details.

I noticed the charming ceiling details at our first open home, but over time I’ve found my eye drawn to the plaster moulding again and again in ever-growing fondness. It’s like falling in love, isn’t it?

The first impression matters, of course, but it’s the details that make all the difference. This week’s top picks are filled with homes that have spectacular details, from intricate cornices to beautifully tiled splashbacks and stunning vistas framed just so. 

Curtin

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This north-facing double-brick home has been fully renovated, and the results are stunning.

High ceilings and large double-glazed windows make the home feel light and spacious, while sheer curtains, engineered European oak floors and wool carpet create a sense of luxury.

Downstairs is an oversize double garage, storage room and study, as well as a self-contained unit with its own access.

Upstairs is an open-plan living area, separate lounge, three bedrooms, two bathrooms and an enclosed deck.

The oversize kitchen includes an Italian terrazzo splashback and new kitchen appliances.

Price guide: $2 million +

Auction: 5:30pm, November 4

Agent: PURNELL, Ben Galdys 0411 445 347

Forrest

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Located just a stone’s throw from Manuka shops, this Willemsen-designed townhouse is split over two sun-drenched levels.

The ground floor features a courtyard and patio outside, and a high ceiling and Victorian ash floors across the split-level living area. 

Upstairs is three bedrooms including a main with a walk-in wardrobe and en suite.

Other features of the home include ducted reverse air conditioning for year-round comfort, Crimsafe doors and under stair storage for those looking for extra space to store their knick-knacks.

Price guide: $1.25 million +

Auction: 10am, November 13

Agent: Capital Residential, Cory McPherson 0418 266 698

Kingston

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This striking four-bedroom home is luxurious, modern and thoughtfully designed.

The open-plan living area with a gas fireplace flows out to the private courtyard with a saltwater pool, sauna and barbecue area.

The master bedroom, on the ground floor, features a walk-in-robe and an ensuite with indoor heating.

The upper level has a rumpus room with its own balcony and kitchenette. It’s also where three of the bedrooms are also located.

Other standouts include a built-in wine bar and a subterranean wine cellar.

Price guide: $3.595 million

Private Sale

Agent: Luton Properties Manuka, Sophie Luton 0410 750 413

Denman Prospect

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Hamptons style is a coastal, north American take on French interior design cues and, in my honest opinion, the design style of the decade. 

The magnificent home at 17 Medina Street takes all the best bits of the Hamptons and weaves them into everything you love about quintessential Canberra living. 

Open-plan, north-facing living areas with feature recessed ceilings, a light colour palette and vistas across the Molonglo Valley will have you feeling as though you could fly straight through the windows. Contrasting timber flooring will keep your feet firmly planted on the ground.

An integrated al fresco dining area is the perfect vantage point for balmy summer dinners as the coastal breeze finally makes its way into Canberra. It won’t matter, though, because, in this home, you’ll already feel like you’re living by the sea.

Price guide: $1.7 million +

Auction: 11:30am, November 6

Agent: Josh Morrissey, HIVE Property 0437 799 234

Kingston

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This is penthouse living at its finest with luxury and location front and centre at 10/57 Eyre Street, Kingston.

With the Kingston Foreshore and Lake Burley Griffin right outside your door, this home was made for those who long to live close to some of Canberra’s most popular landmarks.

From the balcony of the property, you’re spoilt with panaroma views of the capital.

The open plan dining and living area is bathed in natural light thanks to the extensive windows and the kitchen boasts Gaggenau appliances and granite benchtops.

The bedrooms have high ceilings and the home also has an eight-door linen press and storage, a full-sized laungry and a triple car lock-up garage.

Price guide: $2.5 million +

Private sale

Agent: Independent Inner North & City, Phil Smith 0451 502 105