Tranquil Braddon home still close to bars, cafes and shops

30 Doonkuna Street, Braddon
$1.3 million-plus
3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1 car space

Buyers looking for a home that offers an oasis of tranquillity within walking distance of bars, cafes, shops and the CBD may find their ideal residence in Braddon.

This 1920s character home sited on a 910-square-metre block on oak-lined lane Doonkuna Street offers contemporary living in an exclusive walk-to-everywhere location. 

Set among the beautiful heritage gardens of one of Canberra’s oldest precincts, this classic red brick home is just a short stroll from the eclectic vibrancy of Lonsdale Street, a mere few hundred metres from the city.

Meet friends for a wine at Mint Garden Bar, sample the craft beers on offer at BentSpoke, catch a movie at Dendy or dine at any one of the contemporary restaurants and cafes in Braddon. 

The home’s sunny, north-facing outlook and quiet street was what originally attracted Ron and Niki Jackson in 2003.  

“We loved it for its location – it’s walking distance to everything you need. But you can escape back to the house and enjoy its tranquillity,” Ron says.

“Despite the busy streets of Braddon being so close by, you actually can’t hear any traffic once you’re home.”

After moving into the home, the couple extensively landscaped the grounds with lawn, native plants and an entertaining area.

Inside, the older parts of the house were refurbished and a new kitchen was fitted.

“It’s been a fantastic home for entertaining – it’s got a great inside-outside aspect and we’ve certainly made great use of the deck when relaxing with family and friends,” Ron says.

“This home has been great and it will appeal to a couple or a young family who enjoy the busyness of living close to everything – but enjoy retreating from it, too.” 

Agents: Holly Komorowski, Home by Holly, 0434​ 973​ 987. Auction: Saturday, September 23, at 5.30pm, onsite. EER: 2.5. Inspect: Saturday, September 3, 10am-10.45am, Wednesday, September 7, 12.45pm-1.15pm.

42 Macdonnell Street, Yarralumla
$1.3 million-plus
4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 2 car spaces

A secret doorway behind a bookcase is one of the many surprises in a Yarralumla home that brings a touch of Swiss-German architecture to Canberra.

The 1960s home was built by a young European craftsman as his family home and the attention to detail and his inspired use of space has ensured the timeless appeal of this Macdonnell Street residence.

Art, architecture and design couple Doctors Eugenie and Robert Bell bought the home in 2006, attracted by its style, location and outlook.

“It is beautifully built and it does have a striking European flavour to the design,” Eugenie says.

“Every space in the home has been maximised. The rooms are generous and it has extensive storage areas.”

The home sits on three levels on an 862-square-metre block in a quiet street with views to Black Mountain, close to the lake.

The lower level has a garage, and space for an apartment conversion.

The main level includes lounge, study, dining room, casual meals, library, kitchen – and a self-contained flat.

Upstairs has three bedrooms, a striking bathroom, a balcony and an attic.

Auction: Saturday, September 17, 1pm, onsite. Agents: Luton Properties Manuka, agents Robert Westropp-Evans and Natasha Johnson. EER: 1.5. Inspect: Saturday, 11.15am-noon, Thursday, September 8, 5pm-5.30pm.