Only in Canberra: two homes with big backyards, incredibly close to the city

A big backyard close to the city centre either doesn't exist in other capital cities or, if it does, would cost you about the same as your own small island in the Pacific.

This is why we love living in Canberra.

If the idea of being two minutes from Civic (including the annual Multicultural Festival, ANU, glamour dining venues and Canberra Centre) floats your boat, but you also want your kids and fur babies to have room to run around, check out these two picks of the bunch.

3 Peel Street, O'Connor

I adore the colours and character of this house. The original red brick chimney and front steps date back to the original heritage of the 1950s Tocumwal cottage. The bright bursts of colour from the front door and the distinctive features, weatherboard cladding and big timber framed windows make my heart sing.

Inside, the house has stunning original floorboards, french doors, high ceilings and double hung windows. With so much personality, it's like going home to an old friend. 

Outside, the three-bedroom cottage has so many opportunities. The 781sqm block has a big, flat backyard, and a mini orchard of kiwi fruit vines, lemon, pear and apricot trees, feijoa and raised veggie beds. Ready for the new owners to add some native plants, extra garden beds for organic vegetables and even a chook pen.

A treehouse or tree swing for the kids would be so adorable and totally match the cosy vibe of the house.

The deck could be extended out to include a barbecue area, with a red brick pizza oven or a water feature, perfect for inviting friends over. The driveway of the home offers easy access to put in a modern pool area, but I'm imagining a kidney-shaped old school pool with yellow and white beach umbrella. The opportunities are endless. 

View the full listing: 3 Peel Street, O'Connor.

22 Dutton Street, Dickson

The ultimate 'grandparents' house, built to last with solid brick, concrete verandahs, landscaped for simplicity and a monster garage for the ages. Inside the house, I'm loving the tasteful renovation, including the new plantation shutters and Tasmanian Oak flooring. The Bosch electric cooktop, oven and dishwasher and all-new ceiling fans are quality features that modernise the classic home. 

Outside is where this home totally shines, and reminds me of my 1980s childhood: roller skating, matchbox cars and running around under the sprinkler. 

The yard is completely private with a shed on one side and massive green hedges on the other. A pool would be brilliant in this space, or even a family-sized spa with some beautiful paved landscaping and even an outdoor meals area under an oversized umbrella. I’m also picturing a designated stone paved fire pit area with some comfy chairs, for stargazing and talking with friends. 

This property is within walking distance of the peaceful wetlands nearby and - if you're feeling a little bit more ambitious - the Dickson shops for an early morning coffee. 

View the full listing: 22 Dutton Street, Dickson.