A palatial residence on one of Harcourt Hill's premium streets

8 Kleinig Street, Nicholls
$1.1 million-plus
5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 2 parking spaces

Lovers of space inside and outside will be drawn to this palatial residence on one of Harcourt Hill’s premium streets.

Designed by award-winning architect, Terry Ring, it comprises nearly 400 square metres of luxury living over two levels with five double sized bedrooms and views extending across to the Brindabellas and Black Mountain.

The classic home has an unrivalled street presence and sits on a 961 square metre block behind manicured hedges and lawn.

Its auction appeal has already drawn more than 100 groups, but few of those would have been prepared for the pleasurable design surprises inside.

A soaring double void, adventurously shaped balconies and curved windows are among some of the innovations that architect Ring has included.

First impressions tell a very classic story with rooms of generous dimensions, cornices and an open fireplace in the formal lounge.

But a different story begins at the rear when the focus becomes very contemporary with floor-to-ceiling curved segment glass, a first for Canberra at the time.

The effect is a stunning panoramic vista that takes in the neighbouring golf course and sweeping views beyond.

Owner Michael Elton says a relocation is taking him into the narrower confines of inner Sydney.

“If I could take this house with me, I would, it’s just perfect,” he says.

 “I couldn’t tell you which part was my favourite because each room has something special to offer. Terry got the design just right,” Michael says.

The formal and informal living spaces lead to four separate outdoor entertaining areas, sited to perfectly capture the panoramic views and winter sun.

A further world of possibilities opens up with a separate downstairs living area complete with kitchenette, bedroom, lounge and bathroom.

This apartment is perfect for extended family living, guests or a home-based business.

Michael says the option of having a relative come stay with them was part of the original decision to buy the home.

“The apartment has its own access and would also work for somebody who needs an office to run a business,” he says.

There is also a cavernous 200 square metres of under house storage area along with a double brick garage with internal access.

This prestige residence is located close to schools, local shops, tennis courts and a golf course.

Auction: Saturday, November 12, 10.30am, onsite. Inspect: Saturday, November 5, 1pm-1.30pm; Sunday, November 6, 1pm-1.30pm; and Wednesday, November 9, 5pm-5.30pm. Agent: Lyn Chambers, LJ Hooker Belconnen, 0418 661 980.

Sunny family home

68 Ebden Street, Ainslie
$800,000-plus
4 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 1 parking space

There could be quite a racket soon when the chooks in the backyard of this Ainslie home find out they’re likely to be moving.

Homeowner Jean Abbott has decided to buck the trend and upsize as she approaches 80 years of age and 57 years of calling Ebden Street home.

“I’m moving to a big house in Medowie, 35 kilometres north of Newcastle, with my son and to be close to other family,” she says.

“I’ve lived in this house since I was married and it’s the only home I’ve known since then.”

Jean and her late husband brought up two children in the four-bedroom home that started life as a fibro construction before it received a brick facelift in the 1970s.

“We also extended the kitchen, added a bedroom and an enclosed garden room,” Jean says.

“My favourite spot is the lounge room that gets beautiful afternoon sun – I love to sit there with a cup of tea.”

The house sits on the high side of the street and, being Ainslie, is close to schools, transport and shops.

Auction: Thursday, November 10, at 5pm onsite. Inspect: Saturday, 1pm-1.30pm; and Thursday, November 10, 5pm-5.30pm. Agent: home.byholly,  Holly Komorowski 0434 973 987.