'A successful statement': How homes can leave a lasting impression on Canberra buyers

By
Ray Sparvell
November 4, 2022
81 David Street, O'Connor will go to auction on November 12.

Homes can make a statement for a number of reasons, including the features that have gone into them and how they all add up as an expression of character.

Karen Brill of Independent Tuggeranong, who lists this O’Connor feature property, says this home is a case in point.

It began life humbly, but a renovation and an extension – by celebrated architect Kenneth Oliphant, no less – have lifted it above the ordinary.

“I think the secret is in the vision and in the detail,” she says. “The features that contribute to the overall statement have all been carefully thought-through and planned.

“All the elements – from floors to ceilings, doors and window trims, custom cabinetry, the outdoor spaces – work together to create something bigger.”

Brill says homeowners who get the statement features right can add a significant premium when their homes come to market.

David Stokes of Blackshaw Manuka says statement features are about what sticks in the buyer’s memory.

“It’s hard to be prescriptive about what works as it really comes down to what someone is after, or that certain something that triggers a reaction in them,” he says.

“It could be a fabulous kitchen or bathroom, maybe a great entertaining space … if they can’t get it out of their minds, it’s a successful statement.”

Stokes says buyers can be specific about features and that they are not necessarily always inside the home.

“A location can be a statement feature in itself – perhaps somewhere close to preferred schools.”

 

  • Integration: Homes throughout the eras have been designed and built with distinguishing features, from fireplaces to high ceilings, perhaps mid-century design. Iit adds up to the character.
  • Add character: Some homes may not have had character features the first time around, but an extension and/or renovation can pack them with statement goodies like sunrooms, bifold doors, designer staircases and outdoor rooms.
  • X appeal: Statement features can inject a “wow” factor into a home and lift it above its competitors. Choose wisely with a vision in mind – individual pieces should contribute to the whole.

 

Check out our top pick of properties for sale:

O’Connor

Some homes come packed with features that celebrate the best of “old Canberra” architecture and this home in sought-after David Street in O’Connor is one of these.

It is a home and studio of early 1950s heritage with an extension authored by celebrated architect Kenneth Oliphant, wrapped up in iconic red bricks, cedar doors and window frames.

It occupies a block just shy of 1000 square metres and delivers 128.7 square metres of living space.

81 David Street O'Connor

The character features keep coming inside, including high ceilings with original cornices, and high-end contemporary finishes.

The main residence has four light-filled bedrooms, two on each side, serviced by modern bathrooms.

The living spaces provide access to a wrap-around timber deck, pond and leafy garden. There’s a conservatory-like sunroom with an adjustable motorised pergola.

81 David Street O'Connor

A new galley kitchen has Caesarstone bench tops and brand-name appliances, including a new Franke gas cooktop and Miele dishwasher, on bespoke flooring.

Comfort is delivered through ducted gas heating and ducted evaporative cooling.

There’s a separate, self-contained, renovated one-bedroom studio with private parking and a side entry. It’s complete with a kitchenette, laundry and bathroom – ideal for extended family living, as a teenager’s space or as a further income stream.

The block is big enough to consider potential further extensions, a prospect enhanced by laneway access. And the home is convenient to the CBD, ANU and Braddon.

81 David Street O'Connor

Price guide: Low $2 millions

Auction: 4pm, November 12

Agent: Independent Tuggeranong, Karen Brill 0404 848 466

 

Or try these:

Bruce

Price guide: $800,000

Auction: 11am, November 19

Agent: The Agency Canberra, Jason McKinney 0413 330 742

 

Denman Prospect

Price guide: $1.45 million+

Auction: 3pm, November 12

Agent: Bastion Property Group, Theo Koutsikamanis 0431 543 649

 

Queanbeyan

Price guide: Circa $1.1 million

Auction: 1:30pm, November 19

Agent: The Property Collective, Jason Maxwell 0416 182 379

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