Inside the Deakin home proving old Canberra govies can go green

Canberra’s iconic “govies” have long provided a solid foundation for extension and renovation, along with plenty of scope for improving their energy efficiency ratings.

Magnolia House in Carrington Street, Deakin, has been utterly transformed from its humble, government-built, two-bedroom red-brick cottage origins in one of the suburb’s most sought-after streets.

It may well now be a contender for best in class after achieving a stunning EER rating of 7.4, the result of a collaboration between Light House Architecture and Science and Aspect Building Projects.

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The original floor plan has been extended to create a wing with three bedrooms and a hub comprising a living room, a step-down kitchen and a dining room – a perfectly sized set-up for a young family or downsizers.

A neutral interior palette is complemented by stunning finishes in terrazzo, tile and recycled hardwood. But it’s the largely invisible infrastructure that makes the biggest difference to the home’s energy performance.

Jenny Edwards of Light House says it’s actually not hard to massively improve an ex-govie.

“The house already had great orientation, offering a north aspect to the rear,” she says. “We rejigged the layout to make sure the living areas and main bedroom capture that precious winter warmth while being shaded in summer.”

Carefully positioned windows connect the interior with the private gardens, highlighted by a magnificent magnolia tree that gives the home its name.

For comfort, the house includes heating and cooling systems, and a heat-recovery and air-quality control system that maximises energy efficiency, ensuring year-round comfort and protection from pollen, smoke and other airborne nasties.

Edwards says a big focus has also been insulation and draught-sealing.

“It’s not difficult to retrofit insulation to older homes and to ensure air tightness,” she says. “But it’s space efficiency that really matters – a small-footprint home is super-functional and reduces build and running costs.”

The kitchen is an absolute standout for space and storage, including a deep pantry, while the dining area is perfectly positioned to enjoy the warmth of the winter sun. Further storage options throughout the home ensure there’s a place for everything.

Agent Peta Swarbrick of Brybricks says the transformation of this 1950s home has been remarkable.

“It works on so many different levels,” she says. “It has retained its street character while the expanded space has made it a very practical home – one that is highlighted by quality fixtures, fittings and finishes.

“And when you add the improvements in its energy efficiency and comfort, the result is a truly special home.”

Swarbrick says retaining the mature magnolia tree in the rear yard was a considered design choice as it “provides such beautiful shade in the warmer months and also adds to the overall character”.

But it’s not the only original feature that has been retained. A classic Hills Hoist still takes pride of place in the backyard.

How to comfort-tune your govie

Northern aspect

Maximise winter sunlight by opening living spaces to the north. Use adjustable shading for summer and choose flooring that holds warmth. This provides free heat and reduces heater use.

Roof efficiency

Add thick insulation and reflective lining, and seal any gaps in your roof. Combine this with well‑ventilated eaves to keep summer heat out and winter warmth in, boosting year‑round comfort.

Thermal zoning

Divide the home into areas you heat and areas you don’t. Add insulation inside and use solid doors to stop air escaping. This helps keep rooms comfortable and lowers energy bills.