Grand estates and grande lattes? Why everyone is talking about the Deakin lifestyle

There’s a sense of history running through the suburb of Deakin. Development began in the 1920s, as politicians and public servants moved to the nation’s new capital.

Situated close to Parliament House in Parkes, it was the ideal base for prestige properties, most notably The Lodge, the prime minister’s official residence, which was built in 1927.

Since then, 23 people have served as prime minister, and it’s hard to understand why a handful of them have shunned The Lodge, as Deakin is one of Canberra’s most beautiful suburbs.

Louise Harget, principal of Belle Property Canberra, says Deakin is a premium suburb that manages to feel peaceful even though it’s just minutes from the city. She loves the history contained within the suburb.

“There is something so special about driving up the canopy of National Circuit, and some of those restored period homes on grand old blocks with gardens that are maturing with 80 or 90-year-old plantings,” she says.

“I always imagine these homes when they were newly built, just how outrageously luxurious they would have been nestled next to The Lodge.”

Stretching from State Circle to the foothills of Red Hill, Deakin is well served by amenities. There is a range of schools, including Canberra Girls Grammar School, which was built in 1928.

At the Deakin shops, there are popular cafes and professional services.

“Deakin attracts a great mix of people,” Harget says.

“From health professionals who love being close to the hospital, to young families drawn to the excellent school catchments.

“The blocks here are pretty generous too, making it a great spot for growing families who want a bit more space to spread out and enjoy.”

Harget says there is solid movement in the Deakin market.

While some properties do sit a little longer, there’s always a lift in activity around springtime as families seek to settle in a new property before Christmas and the new school year.

According to Domain data, the median house price is $1.735 million and $906,500 for units.

My local

With Louise Harget, Belle Property Canberra

Best Eats

Cafe D’lish is a must. It has the freshest food, and its vanilla slice is the best. It’s a go-to spot for a quick office lunch, and we love to support a good family-owned business.

Coffee Fix

DoubleShot is a great spot for soaking up the morning sun with a coffee in their lovely courtyard area. It’s open early, too, so it’s a good option for a pre or post-gym hit.

Hidden gem

Not so hidden, but there are so many sneaky little trails that lead up onto the walking tracks of Red Hill Reserve. Such gorgeous bushland in the middle of Canberra.

For sale in Deakin

By negotiation

84 Empire Circuit, Deakin ACT 2600

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84 Empire Circuit

Agent: Berkely Residential, Simon Richards 0424 688 553

In a premium location in old Deakin, this renovated home maintains a classical feel with all the mod-cons.

At the heart of the house is an award-winning kitchen with a walk-in pantry, opening onto informal and formal living areas.

The backyard features a pool, a full-sized tennis court and established gardens on the 2412-square-metre block. It’s close to schools and a short walk from the Manuka shops.

$2,850,000 - $2,950,000

7 Macartney Crescent, Deakin ACT 2600

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7 Macartney Crescent

Agent: Hive Property, Eva Bono 0415 668 718

You’ll spend a lot of time lingering at the kitchen bench in this well-designed home, with an outlook to the al fresco area next to the solar-heated, self-cleaning pool.

Every day will seem like a holiday. Downstairs are formal and informal living areas, and the main bedroom with a private courtyard.

Upstairs includes three more bedrooms and a flexible rumpus room that could be used as another bedroom.