88 Wybalena Grove, Cook ACT 2614

There's a charm surrounding Wybalena Grove which naturally evokes images of a quiet, bushland retreat that's sheltered from the city suburbia lying all around it. Privacy and peacefulness, with a sprinkling of village community atmosphere, must have been the aims of the designers and their vision remains as positive today as it did when the first bricks were laid in the 1970s.

Beyond the leafy surrounds there's innovation and functionality inside each of the dwellings as well, with raked ceilings and clerestory windows as well as an inspired use of space that's both surprising and delightful.

Spread over four levels and boasting three decks, this four bedroom home at #88 has rarely changed hands and, even after a brief inspection, you'll find it's easy to guess why.

Three bedrooms occupy the lower levels, including a bespoke extension constructed in the 1980s that created a bedroom, ensuite and deck to suit an elderly parent or a young adult wanting some personal freedom. The remaining two bedrooms share a separate rear deck and barbeque area - with one of the rooms featuring a walk-in robe that could double as a personal dressing room.

Daily living occurs on level three where you'll find a massive open plan lounge, dining and kitchen - showcasing high ceilings, a fresh decor and easy access to a full-width balcony looking across the treetops. The kitchen includes a breakfast bench, a window overlooking more greenery and ample workspace together with a superb use of storage space - but by now you'll have become accustomed to such flair in the home's design.

The living room includes another 'off-the-wall' attraction, too, with a unique raised alcove that's large enough for a rocking-chair and bookshelves yet cosy enough to feel cocooned from the hum-drum on Canberra's chilliest weekends.

The fourth level contains an attic-style bedroom that's bound to become everyone's favourite sleeping quarters, with it's a-framed ceiling and gorgeous views of the night sky as you drift off each evening as well as a built-in desk for study or late-night work.

Both bathrooms are well appointed with white tiling and vanities and, of course, there's a double garage for your vehicles. There's more space above the garage, too, with a studio that's large enough for hobbies and pastimes, all accessed by a folding ladder.

Carpeted throughout and brushed with clean, neutral tones, this is a home that effortlessly blends character, ambience and function with an exterior that definitely feels semi-rural. But with the Jamison Centre just a kilometre down the road, together with a range of excellent schools and facilities nearby, you'll always be assured of city convenience.