1926 Reid home built for one of Canberra's first families listed at $3 million

This heritage-listed home in Reid’s Dirrawan Gardens is filled with history and finished with modern-day touches.

The 1926 home would have been one of Reid’s first after construction commenced at the base of Mount Ainslie during the same year.

Those familiar with Canberra’s history would know the city’s first suburbs were built to accommodate public servants ahead of the opening of Old Parliament House.

But home.by holly agent Holly Komorowski says the property is distinctive compared to Reid’s confirmed Federal Capital Commission-built homes.

“It’s got a really deep porch which is different to the more enclosed and smaller front porches that you find on other properties,” she says.

“The high ornate ceilings with cornices and roses, and the front entryway with glass doors also speak to a privately built home.”

Holly says it’s possible the home’s design was influenced by Canberra’s first private architect Kenneth Oliphant. It features a slew of period details, including picture rails, timber sash windows and an original fireplace.

“I love that they retained those front rooms – the heritage of the home,” Holly says.

“That originality at the front of the house is really special.”

However, the renovated property also sports the latest in contemporary style.

“The floorplan is really expansive and has been modernised to the back of the property,” Holly says.

“There’s a really decadent and beautifully-designed ensuite which is one of the most luxurious features of the home.”

The master bedroom flows into a rainforest-inspired ensuite with stone counters, twin basins and a separate shower and bath. Its glass-panelled facade overlooks a forest of tree ferns, allowing for cloud watching or star gazing.

The master also sports a walk-in wardrobe, courtyard access, walls of cabinetry and porthole windows.

Three more bedrooms with built-in robes and garden views centre around a second bathroom.

A study on the other side of the house - with a wine cellar and access to the double carport - could be used as a fifth bedroom.

Sitting in the centre of the property is an open-plan living, kitchen and dining area with large skylights and a sunny northeast orientation.

The minimalist kitchen features soft touch drawers, integrated and concealed appliances and a central island bench with a breakfast bar.

“The home opens up from the kitchen/dining area to a beautiful outdoor dining area with ornamental vines,” Holly says.

A swimming pool and separate studio sit among the clipped hedges and established trees of the backyard. Landscaped gardens continue out front, with vintage oaks lining the drive and streetscapes of Reid.

The home is within walking distance of Civic, Glebe Park, and Reid Park and Oval. The Parliamentary triangle, Reid tennis club and Anzac Parade are also nearby.

Holly says only a small number of properties sell in the “tightly held” suburb of Reid each year.

“Buyers coming into the home have the intention of securing something that’s quite rare,” Holly says.

“I just love the character, the soul and the spirit of the home, which goes back to our earliest days.”

Number 9 Dirrawan Gardens, Reid, is for sale between $2,950,000 - $3,100,000.

View the full listing.

Article originally written and published by The RiotACT.