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Is it wrong to drive the streets of a Canberra suburb aimlessly, wishing you lived there? Because that’s what I do in the far south-western suburb of Chapman.A long, thin, finger-shaped suburb hugging the base of Mount Arawang, Chapman is located in Weston Creek (officially Woden) but is so close to Kambah you can almost touch it. It’s the bush capital at its finest; steep streets winding through a thick canopy of trees.<img alt="Cream-21-Lincoln-Close-Chapman-01_D2D-960x640" class="richtext-image full-width" height="533" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/Cream-21-Lincoln-Close-Chapman-01_D2D-960x640.width-800.jpg" width="800">Along most avenues, you have to peer through the bush landscaping to see the houses. For the lucky residents of Chapman, it must be like living in a garden.<img alt="22-rene-street-chapman-act-2611-38539-image-0-20210328220126462052-thumbnail-1920x1920-70" class="richtext-image full-width" height="533" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/22-rene-street-chapman-act-2611-38539-image-0-.width-800.jpg" width="800">I’m not the only one who covets this suburb. People move to Chapman for the big houses and even bigger blocks. With a population of 2,684, it’s one of Canberra’s smaller suburbs, and has an average household size of 2.8.Properties range from a modern apartment complex on the old petrol station site to rebuilt homes of grand proportions, backing the Cooleman Ridge nature reserve. Some homes are in original 1970s condition, some extended and many renovated. Most are built to take in the spectacular views north across the capital.<img alt="chapman view" class="richtext-image full-width" height="533" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/chapman_view.width-800.jpg" width="800">For Tim and Justine Burke, of Luton Properties, selling in the suburb is a joy because of the individuality of each home.“Some of them are quite grand and some are on enormous land holdings,” Tim says.And there are benefits to buying on the western outskirts of the city over the inner north or inner south.“In Chapman, you’re absolutely getting bang for buck,” Tim says.“You’re securing above average land holdings, incredible views and proximity to the city centre.”A huge drawcard for people moving to Chapman is the suburb’s school.<img alt="School_Hall" class="richtext-image full-width" height="301" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/School_Hall.width-800.jpg" width="400">Cream Residential’s Chris Wilson grew up in 2611 and says when the school opened in 1975 it was “incredibly unique”.“The school, when originally designed, was an open plan design,” Chris says.“At the time it was a very unique concept in Canberra.”<img alt="IMG_1486" class="richtext-image full-width" height="600" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/IMG_1486.width-800.jpg" width="800">Chris says it’s the high quality of housing in Chapman that most of his buyers are looking for.“There are many homes that when originally built were owner built and hence the quality still shows today,” he says.Tom Ellis, of Bertram Ellis, has had an office at the Chapman shops since the late 1990s. He says the trauma of the 2003 bushfires brought residents of the suburb closer than ever.<img alt="21-lincoln-close-chapman-act-2611-95053-image-0-20240207021654044910-thumbnail-1920x1920-70" class="richtext-image full-width" height="533" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/21-lincoln-close-chapman-act-2611-95053-image-.width-800.jpg" width="800">“The shared experience of bushfires really galvanised the community,” Tom says.“It’s now a stronger, more connected community than ever.”He says Chapman was also one of only a handful of Canberra’s early suburbs that, when originally designed, had no government housing.“Having had my office at the Chapman shopping centre since 1998, I’ve had the opportunity to work with many wonderful buyers and sellers in the suburb.”<a href="https://zango.com.au/sale/search/?listing_type=buy&amp;address_suburb=Chapman,%202611,%20ACT&amp;surrounding=true&amp;order_by=-created&amp;property_status_groups=current,underOffer,includePrivate&amp;page=1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">View properties for sale in Chapman.</a>

Why this suburb is at the top of every Canberran's wish list

Nestled in the foothills of Cooleman Ridge Nature Reserve is a 1970s home that has received a magnificent facelift from top to bottom, transforming it into a luxury abode, ideal for a modern family.Located in Weston Creek’s premier suburb,<a href="https://zango.com.au/sale/84-doyle-terrace-chapman-act-2611-93775/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> 84 Doyle Terrace</a> in Chapman retains its original architectural design features, including timber flooring, arched shelving nooks and fabulous French doors opening onto an entertaining deck.<img alt="84-doyle-terrace-chapman-act-2611-93775-image-0-20240117003202527739-thumbnail-1920x1920-70" class="richtext-image full-width" height="533" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/84-doyle-terrace-chapman-act-2611-93775-image-.width-800.jpg" width="800"><a href="https://zango.com.au/agencies/ray-white/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Ray White Canberra</a> sales agent and auctioneer <a href="/agents/alec-brown/">Alec Brown</a> said an “extensive overhaul” carried out over a number of years and completed just last week has created a home that “radiates chic sophistication”.“The owners have done an impeccable job enhancing what was a fairly traditional property,” he said.“The very high-end fixtures and fittings, including a stunning Wolf oven, have created a more contemporary home with a timeless style that will definitely appeal to young families.“The theme that runs throughout the home is gorgeous. They’ve spent a lot of time, expense and energy in finessing a consistent look both inside and out.”The light and bright four-bedroom home is located in an area that is highly sought-after by families who yearn to be surrounded by nature but also close to great schools and conveniences.<img alt="84-doyle-terrace-chapman-act-2611-93775-image-0-20240117003155378730-thumbnail-1920x1920-70" class="richtext-image full-width" height="533" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/84-doyle-terrace-chapman-act-2611-93775-image-.width-800_Nqybz1y.jpg" width="800">“Being a local to Chapman myself, I can say this is a really family-orientated neighbourhood with an extremely well-regarded public school less than a kilometre away,” Alec said.“You can walk to Chapman Primary School and Stromlo High School, and the local Chapman Shops, which have a bakery, great café, IGA supermarket and medical facilities. It’s just a short drive to the Cooleman Court Shopping Centre and Westfield Woden.“You’re at the base of the Cooleman Ridge Nature Reserve and it’s an easy 100-metre stroll to the access path which will take you up to the ridge and connects with the Centenary Trail.”He said the first-class location boasted one of Canberra’s most rewarding play spaces right on the doorstep.Since hitting the market, Alec said the inspection feedback had been positive. Potential buyers love the flow of the property, the light-filled spaces, the storage and the privacy.“The kitchen has been universally applauded given the quality of the joinery, the appliances and the amazing stone benches. The butler’s pantry, with a second sink, two wall ovens and wine storage is not just aesthetically pleasing, but it’s also extremely practical,” he said.<img alt="84-doyle-terrace-chapman-act-2611-93775-image-0-20240117003159090420-thumbnail-1920x1920-70" class="richtext-image full-width" height="533" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/84-doyle-terrace-chapman-act-2611-93775-image-.width-800_HgF4N3P.jpg" width="800">The new covered alfresco area has also been highly regarded. It offers a continuation of themes inside, with an integrated outdoor kitchen and barbecue, making it the perfect spot to entertain family and friends. The glass balustrade ensures a clear view over the solar-heated saltwater swimming pool where kids of all ages will enjoy hours of fun.“Everyone that has inspected so far has loved the kitchen, the private, elevated position in a quiet street, and the idea of being able to entertain year ’round both inside and out,” Alec said.The sprawling lower-level living areas, with herringbone oak flooring, flow seamlessly onto the deck, with the original French doors a stunning feature. A gorgeous gas log fireplace, wall panelling and built-in arched cabinetry complete the look.Upstairs, the master suite is bathed in natural light and boasts a newly renovated luxe ensuite and walk-in robe. Three other bedrooms share a renovated bathroom with a free-standing tub and separate toilet. The top floor features gleaming original timber floorboards and takes in views over the surrounding bushland.<img alt="84-doyle-terrace-chapman-act-2611-93775-image-0-20240117003157099003-thumbnail-1920x1920-70" class="richtext-image full-width" height="533" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/84-doyle-terrace-chapman-act-2611-93775-image-.width-800_0IS6u3i.jpg" width="800">The renovation has included the addition of all the mod cons, including solar panels, ducted gas heating and evaporative cooling.Alec said the fully fenced backyard was “remarkably private and low maintenance”, while the 785 square-metre block provided plenty of room for extra parking. For convenience, the double automatic garage has internal access.The property will go to auction on Saturday, 3 February, as part of Ray White Canberra’s Summer Showcase Event at the Hyatt Hotel.<a href="https://zango.com.au/sale/84-doyle-terrace-chapman-act-2611-93775/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">View the full listing.</a>Article originally written and published by <a href="https://the-riotact.com/luxe-makeover-enhances-seductive-70s-style-in-chic-chapman/738809" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">the RiotACT</a>

1970s Chapman home transformed into a luxury haven

Trevor Dunbar can’t understand why more people don’t use the ceiling of their home as a canvas.“It’s a huge, blank space that’s perfect for a variety of art forms,” he says.“Your house doesn’t have to be boring. Monochrome and beige have never been on our radar.“It’s not common in Australia to use your home as canvas, but across the world it is.”<img alt="5-bidia-place-waramanga-act-2611-90390-image-0-20231115013135837340-thumbnail-1920x1920-70" class="richtext-image full-width" height="533" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/5-bidia-place-waramanga-act-2611-90390-image-0.width-800.jpg" width="800">The Dunbar family home, located at <a href="https://zango.com.au/sale/5-bidia-place-waramanga-act-2611-90390/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">5 Bidia Place, Waramanga</a>, and listed on Zango this week, is a living example of what happens when you turn your home into a literal work of art. Over three decades, Trevor, an artist and the former visual arts teacher at Canberra Grammar School, has transformed the red brick home built in the 1960s into a masterpiece. He’s created murals, mosaics and statues, inside and outside the home.<img alt="5-bidia-place-waramanga-act-2611-90390-image-0-20231115013136712923-thumbnail-1920x1920-70" class="richtext-image full-width" height="533" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/5-bidia-place-waramanga-act-2611-90390-image-0.width-800_RSFY5rl.jpg" width="800">His love of 19th century impressionism – Pierre Bonnard is a particular favourite – is front and centre at 5 Bidia Place, with water lilies covering the ceilings of the main areas of the home. The kitchen features a Van Gogh-inspired backsplash and a roof inspired by Indigenous lines, colours and shapes.<img alt="5-bidia-place-waramanga-act-2611-90390-image-0-20231115013136119264-thumbnail-1920x1920-70" class="richtext-image full-width" height="533" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/5-bidia-place-waramanga-act-2611-90390-image-0.width-800_hKpstY1.jpg" width="800">The artwork is all Trevor’s. He describes his wife Linda as “very patient”.“Once she went to work and I’d just come back from central Australia, from Arnhem Land, and I was feeling inspired,” he recalls.“So I sketched out a mosaic mural in the kitchen and by the time Linda got home it was all drawn and couldn’t be undone.“She arrived home and just shook her head.”<img alt="5-bidia-place-waramanga-act-2611-90390-image-0-20231114233140215453-thumbnail-1920x1920-70" class="richtext-image full-width" height="533" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/5-bidia-place-waramanga-act-2611-90390-image-0.width-800_kOFIVO4.jpg" width="800">Trevor has worked on creating a “flow” between the indoors and outdoors of the three-bedroom home, mostly through the use of colour. The home is located at the end of a cul-de-sac and backs onto green space, while a studio out the back is completely self-contained: adding a fourth bedroom, a second bathroom and a kitchen.<img alt="5-bidia-place-waramanga-act-2611-90390-image-0-20231115014639701111-thumbnail-1920x1920-70" class="richtext-image full-width" height="533" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/5-bidia-place-waramanga-act-2611-90390-image-0.width-800_CmOI7Av.jpg" width="800">Trevor knows the home “isn’t for everyone” but his hope is that the new owners will “love it for what it is”.“One of the biggest compliments we’ve ever had is that living in our house is like living in a painting,” he says.<img alt="5-bidia-place-waramanga-act-2611-90390-image-0-20231115014638593682-thumbnail-1920x1920-70" class="richtext-image full-width" height="533" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/5-bidia-place-waramanga-act-2611-90390-image-0.width-800_mLTTuPO.jpg" width="800">Sales agent <a href="/agents/rachel-anasson/">Rachel Anasson</a> from <a href="https://zango.com.au/agencies/marq/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">MARQ Property</a> says the response to the home has been positive.“The gardens are impressive and people love the serenity of being outside,” she says.“It’s a very quiet street.“The artistic and unique internal paintings and murals are definitely getting a reaction.”Number 5 Bidia Place, Waramanga, goes to auction at 12 noon on Saturday 2 December 2023.<a href="https://zango.com.au/sale/5-bidia-place-waramanga-act-2611-90390/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">View the full listing.</a>

Former Canberra Grammar art teacher Trevor Dunbar lists his masterpiece for sale

It was just before a house inspection they were hosting in Fadden in 2001 that <a href="/agents/rick-and-tina-meir/">Rick and Tina Meir</a> knew they were destined to become besties.As clients were literally walking up the front steps to view the home (Rick was selling it, Tina was representing the buyer about to walk through the property) the pair struggled to gain composure from a shared joke before the buyers were due to arrive.“We realised we had a very similar sense of humour,” Tina laughs.“And from that point on, we became great friends.”<img alt="2913_HBH_008h" class="richtext-image full-width" height="1200" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/2913_HBH_008h.width-800.jpg" width="800">From work colleagues to husband and wife, Rick and Tina both had outstanding individual careers in real estate sales across a number of agencies in Canberra’s south.But in 2016, they decided ”it was time” — uniting their sales skills to become one of Canberra’s powerhouse couples of real estate. Today, the Meirs’ hold the suburb records for Weston and Waramanga, and the previous suburb records for Hughes, Throsby, Strathnairn and Denman Prospect. They sold 59 properties last year alone.In a move that plays to the couple’s creative strengths (Tina is an acclaimed singer and actor, while <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CtlWmmnBFKO/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&amp;igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Rick’s dance moves set Instagram on fire</a> last month), the Meirs’ have donned the pink pastel and joined the team at <a href="https://zango.com.au/agencies/home-holly/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">home.by holly</a>.<img alt="Screen Shot 2023-07-25 at 5.59.11 pm" class="richtext-image full-width" height="778" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/Screen_Shot_2023-07-25_at_5.59.11_pm.width-800.png" width="517">The home.by holly agency “already feels like home”, Tina says, and the couple is excited to “smash the stereotype” of traditional property marketing: something the home.by holly team is famous for.“We were drawn to the agency’s values, culture and their standout marketing,” Rick says.“The home.by holly team is creative, people-focused, and genuine. There’s a real values alignment there for us.”While Woden and Weston Creek is their heartland, Rick and Tina will continue to sell homes right across the capital. They’re looking forward to “continuing to specialise in suburbs on the southside that we live and work in”, Tina says, and supporting locals.<img alt="12-phyllis-frost-street-forde-act-2914-82988-image-0-20230712223133427295-crop-c0-5__0-5-1600x750-70" class="richtext-image full-width" height="375" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/12-phyllis-frost-street-forde-act-2914-82988-i.width-800.jpg" width="800">“And just being ourselves,” Rick says. “There’s an energy around the creative freedom we’ll have to market our listings that we can’t wait to build on and work with.”The couple’s hot tip for takeaway on the nights you can’t be bothered cooking?“A curry from Masala Hut in Weston or a pizza from Two Blind Mice in Curtin,” Tina says.“Shantung chicken from Timmy’s in Manuka,” Rick says. “Can’t beat it.”<a href="https://zango.com.au/search-property/real-estate-agents/rick-and-tina-meir/?listing_type=sale&amp;status=current" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">View Rick and Tina&#x27;s current properties for sale.</a>

Rick and Tina Meir don the pastel pink to join the home.by holly team

The hallmarks of Pettit+Sevitt architecture - including efficient use of space, rich natural light and sympathy with the surrounding landscape – are beautifully evident in this masterpiece at <a href="https://zango.com.au/sale/29-rafferty-street-chapman-act-2611-78988/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">29 Rafferty Street, Chapman</a>.Offering clever split-level design over three levels, this four-bedroom plus study, two-bathroom home maximises its corner block location in the heart of Weston Creek.<div>
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The grand design embraces the home’s north-facing aspect, creating light-filled, open-plan living with effortless indoor-outdoor flow.This includes floor-to-ceiling windows in the living areas, high vaulted ceilings, exposed timber beams and timber panelled walls, which lend warmth and depth to the aesthetic.A beautiful stained glass front door beckons you in, past the formal dining room that leads to the kitchen and into the family room.Between an adjoining family room - with direct access outside - and the formal dining space with impressive French doors, lies the renovated kitchen, with quality appliances and natural stone benchtops.<img alt="29-rafferty-street-chapman-act-2611-78988-image-0-20230427013136189758-thumbnail-1920x1920-70" class="richtext-image full-width" height="533" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/29-rafferty-street-chapman-act-2611-78988-imag.width-800_X9mWD6t.jpg" width="800">The dining, formal lounge and kitchen are central to the home and overlook the sheltered outside sitting area: the perfect spot for a fire pit.This is one of many outdoor spaces where <a href="https://zango.com.au/agencies/mccann-properties/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">McCann Properties</a> principal <a href="/agents/mark-mccann/">Mark McCann</a> says the new owners are bound to enjoy hours of al fresco dining, entertainment and relaxation in lush surrounds, including low-maintenance, sun-soaked gardens, paved areas and lawn space.“You can have mates over to sit around a fire pit and enjoy some beverages,” Mark says.&quot;The home itself offers numerous spaces to fulfil your family’s every need.<img alt="29-rafferty-street-chapman-act-2611-78988-image-0-20230426223138705429-thumbnail-1920x1920-70" class="richtext-image full-width" height="533" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/29-rafferty-street-chapman-act-2611-78988-imag.width-800_9MpwfoB.jpg" width="800">“You can retreat with a book to the library nook off the lounge room, while in winter you can sit in the sunroom, which is north-facing, with a nice book and a cup of tea.“Or you can work peacefully from home in the separate workshop, which would also make a great studio or office.”The four double-sized bedrooms each have built-in robes, with a spacious walk-in-robe off the main bedroom.“The bedroom sizes are very generous. Aside from the master bedroom upstairs, a wall has been removed between a couple of bedrooms, making bedroom two the size of two bedrooms,&quot; Mark says.“It’s one of the reasons this home is primed for a family with older kids – they can have a study in their own room.“In this home, everyone can spread out and have their own space depending on what they need, but always with the ability to come back together for meals or family time.”<img alt="29-rafferty-street-chapman-act-2611-78988-image-0-20230426223137923516-thumbnail-1920x1920-70" class="richtext-image full-width" height="533" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/29-rafferty-street-chapman-act-2611-78988-imag.width-800_ZRiF1cb.jpg" width="800">Tastefully renovated with high-quality finishings, both the bathroom and ensuite reflect the same design with floor-to-ceiling tiles, extensive storage and modern facilities, including a convenient clothes chute directly to the laundry.The laundry and both bathrooms have been renovated by leading interior designers.Custom-made, energy-efficient honeycomb pelmetted blinds are fitted throughout the home to provide all-season energy efficiency. Coupled with reverse-cycle air-conditioning units, your family can enjoy year-round comfort.<img alt="29-rafferty-street-chapman-act-2611-78988-image-0-20230426223141712419-thumbnail-1920x1920-70" class="richtext-image full-width" height="533" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/29-rafferty-street-chapman-act-2611-78988-imag.width-800_ycq8nTN.jpg" width="800">The double garage has remote access and a covered walkway to the family room.Other functional features include the home alarm system, excellent storage and an under-stairs wine cellar.Just minutes from Weston Creek’s Cooleman Court shopping centre and close to schools, tennis courts, Canberra Nature Parks walking trails, bus routes and arterial roads for a quick commute, come in and fall in love with 29 Rafferty Street, Chapman.<img alt="29-rafferty-street-chapman-act-2611-78988-image-0-20230426223134846683-thumbnail-1920x1920-70" class="richtext-image full-width" height="533" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/29-rafferty-street-chapman-act-2611-78988-imag.width-800_Mb4PMoH.jpg" width="800">“This home is on the corner of Monkman Street, which is arguably the number one street in Chapman,” Mark says.“It&#x27;s a prestigious area for easy access to all the amenities.”Number 29 Rafferty Street, Chapman, will be auctioned at 9.45am on Saturday 20 May 2023.<a href="https://zango.com.au/sale/29-rafferty-street-chapman-act-2611-78988/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">View the full listing.</a>Article originally written and published by <a href="https://the-riotact.com/tastefully-renovated-light-filled-architecturally-designed-chapman-home-offers-effortless-indoor-outdoor-flow/656278" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The RiotACT.</a>

Three levels of Pettit+Sevitt beauty hit the market in Chapman

If home is where the heart is – there is certainly a strong beating heart in the home of Ona Coffee and Project Origin Founder, Sasa Sestic.We are greeted at the door by his exuberant family and delightful dog, and immediately feel embraced by a feeling of warmth and welcome.<img alt="Sasa_Sestic_Home_7.jpg" class="richtext-image full-width" height="446" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/Sasa_Sestic_Home_7.width-800.jpg" width="800">Naturally we are treated to a Sasa-made coffee speciality, an absolute treat from a world-champion barista. Next it’s a tour of his home where it quickly becomes apparent that Sasa and his wife Betty’s philosophy when it comes to the design and style of a home, is all about what encourages the family to connect.“For me, the design of a home should help create great experiences and memories,” said Sasa. “So for example, we love having friends and family over for dinner and that’s why we wanted to have a big kitchen and dining area that comes out onto the outdoor entertaining area, so that we can all be together while we cook and talk and relax.”<img alt="Sasa_Sestic_Home_8.jpg" class="richtext-image full-width" height="533" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/Sasa_Sestic_Home_8.width-800.jpg" width="800">Of course, designing a house from scratch gives you the unique advantage of being able to include everything you want from the start. Especially when it’s in the location you’ve always wished for.“When blocks of land came up in this area of Weston, we drove around for a while but didn’t see anything we liked. And then we got to this spot and looked up to see the Arboretum and Telstra Tower and we thought, ‘oh we want this, we have to live here.’”<img alt="Sasa_Sestic_Home_4.jpg" class="richtext-image full-width" height="533" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/Sasa_Sestic_Home_4.width-800.jpg" width="800">The actual design process took quite a bit of time as Sasa and Betty changed things along the way, but the journey was well worth it.“We knew we wanted to have a pool, that was really important,” said Sasa. “We wanted it to have a resort feel so that we can immediately relax and have fun when we’re out here. And we use it a lot.”Another absolute must-have for Sasa was a dedicated coffee kitchen.“I always create a lot of mess when I make coffee and I need a lot of space,” he explained. “So to keep the peace in our family I have my own space where I can close the doors and no one can see it.”<img alt="Sasa_Sestic_House_2.jpg" class="richtext-image full-width" height="533" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/Sasa_Sestic_House_2.width-800.jpg" width="800">For a man that spends the majority of his time overseas working with hundreds of coffee farmers and producers for Project Origin, Sasa really wanted his home to be a sanctuary from his chaotic life. The key to this was designing the upstairs balcony that commands sweeping views of the Arboretum and Telstra Tower – the main feature that compelled them to buy the block in the first place.<img alt="Sasa_Sestic_Home_5.jpg" class="richtext-image full-width" height="533" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/Sasa_Sestic_Home_5.width-800.jpg" width="800">“The balcony is an escape for me – and it’s a really special place where Betty and I finish up the day,” he said. “We’ll take up a glass of wine or a cup of coffee and just enjoy the views and forget about everyday problems. It’s like my meditation.”<div>
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Inside the home of Sasa Sestic, founder of Ona Coffee

Forget the decision of whether to live north or south of the lake in Canberra. More importantly - which side should you dine? From lakeside mornings at the Kingston Foreshore to the quirky cafes hidden in the suburbs, here are our picks of some of the most delicious south side brunch venues:<a href="https://doubleshotdeakin.com.au/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Double Shot, Deakin</a>This vibrant cafe at the Deakin shops is the place to be or be seen in the Inner South. Grab a table and settle into the large, leafy courtyard for delicious brunches and nourishing dishes, like Strawberries and Cream Hotcake or Shakshouka, or just go for their famous peanut butter smoothie.<a href="https://silobakery.com.au/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Silo Cafe and Bakery, Kingston</a>This Canberra institution at the Kingston shops is renowned for its freshly baked breads and pastries, all made on-site. Pop in for a loaf artisan bread or grab a seat to enjoy breakfast or lunch from their a la carte European-inspired menu, like pumpkin beignet or tartine Parisienne.<a href="https://space-kitchen.com.au/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Space Kitchen, Phillip</a>Pina Colada Hotcakes anyone? There’s certainly nothing dull about brunch at Phillip’s Space Kitchen. The Eaton Mess Waffle will keep any sweet tooth happy, or the Space Green Eggs and Ham is a seriously next level eggs benny. You can wash them all down with a great coffee, or their extensive Space Booze menu which includes 18+ milkshakes. And don’t forget to grab something from their colourful display of jaw-dropping sweets on the way out for later.<a href="https://www.facebook.com/CommonGroundsGowrie/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Common Grounds, Gowrie</a>Tucked away at the quiet Gowrie shops, Common Grounds is a buzzing cafe, popular with locals for breakfast, lunch and seriously good coffee. There’s plenty of room to sit, both indoors and out, and the venue is kid-friendly, be they of the human or fur variety. Expect to wait for a table on weekends.<a href="http://www.musecanberra.com.au/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Muse Canberra, Kingston</a>Breakfast menus don’t come much more interesting than Muse Canberra’s. Nestled underneath the funky East Hotel in Kingston and attached to a beautiful book store, the all day eatery’s morning menu takes you from spiced roast plum brioche french toast, through to smoked ocean trout kedgeree or the indulgent Baked Soufflé. Best enjoyed with a blood Mary on the side.<a href="https://www.facebook.com/morningdewcanberra/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Morning Dew, Denman Prospect</a>The first cafe to open in Molonglo Valley, Morning Dew serves Canberra’s famed Ona Coffee, plus an all-day breakfast and lunch menu and locally made pastries. Located at Denman Village Shops with an impressive outlook over the valley, it’s a great suburban spot for a relaxed weekend brunch.<a href="https://patissez.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Patissez, Manuka</a>Original home of the Freak Shake, Patissez is well-known for their monster, loaded milkshakes and Insta-worthy creations. But the cafe, sitting in the leafy courtyard at Manuka shops, also has plenty of savoury options, with a full breakfast and lunch menu and great coffee.<a href="https://www.meatingroom.com.au/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Meating Room, Weston Creek</a>The main watering hole in Weston Creek, Meating Room keeps the locals happy with all day dining. You can start your day with a healthy acai bowl through to indulgent honeycomb and chocolate pancakes. Pop up to the bar, lined with milk crate chandeliers, to order and grab a coffee.<a href="http://www.abitetoeat.net.au/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">A Bite To Eat, Chifley</a>An eclectic cafe at the Chifley shops, A Bite To Eat keeps locals well-fed and hydrated from early morning breakfasts right through to late night drinks. The charming local, oozing with retro-chic, has a menu with something for everyone. Sink into a couch or pull up a chair in the leafy courtyard for a lazy meal and really good coffee.<a href="http://pennyuniversitycafe.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Penny University, Kingston</a>At this Kingston favourite, you can make your first meal of the day Banoffee Croissant French Toast, topped with vanilla whipped mascarpone, popcorn, salted caramel andshaved chocolate, and teamed up with some seriously good coffee.<a href="https://redbrickcoffee.com.au/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Redbrick Espresso, Curtin</a>Since starting out as a suburban espresso bar and coffee roastery, Redbrick Espresso has grown to five locations across Canberra, but the cafe at Curtin shops is where it all began. These days the vibrant venue serves simple, delicious food, and of course, their amazing coffee, seven days a week.<a href="https://www.foxandbow.com.au/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Fox and Bow, Farrer</a>Nestled at the Farrer Shops, Fox and Bow is a family-run cafe that’s loved by locals. The owners like to think of the cafe as an extension of their own home, so you can expect uncomplicated, tasty food, with a touch of Spanish influence, plus incredible coffee, and a warm welcome.<a href="https://www.facebook.com/standbymecafe/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Stand By Me, Lyons</a>Another suburban cafe gem, this time in Lyons. Stand By Me is a family-run cafe, known for their gutsy, intriguing breakfast dishes (which are usually highly Insta-friendly). Try their French Toast, which regularly changes its toppings, or treat yourself to their homemade cakes. Even if it’s your first time, you’ll most likely be treated like a regular.<a href="http://www.mapleandclove.com.au/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Maple and Clove, Barton</a>This wholefoods cafe in the Realm precinct is all about nourishing the body from the inside. But healthy doesn’t have to be dull - just try the blue swimmer crab omelette or savoury spelt waffle. On a sunny day, grab a table in the leafy courtyard.<a href="https://localpresscafe.com.au/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Local Press Cafe, Kingston</a>Another health-conscious cafe, Local Press enjoys waterfront views at the Kingston Foreshore. The relaxed venue serves up seasonal fare with ingredients that are unrefined, unprocessed and free of unnecessary additives and preservatives.

The south side guide to Canberra brunches

Region profiles

One of Canberra’s smaller regions, just over 23,000 people call the leafy suburbs of Weston Creek home.It’s a sporting mecca, with an indoor cricket centre, playing fields, tennis courts and a skate park, and is the stomping ground of some of Australia’s great athletes including Rob De Castella, George Gregan, and Michael Bevan.The area is easily accessible to the rest of Canberra along major carriageways, but residents get to enjoy some of the city’s most impressive natural assets right on their doorstep, including the National Arboretum and the world-class facilities at Stromlo Forest Park.<img alt="WestonCreek_Image 1.jpg" class="richtext-image full-width" height="600" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/WestonCreek_Image_1.width-800.jpg" width="800"><h2>PLAY</h2>COOLEMAN RIDGE NATURE RESERVEPopular for walking, taking the dog for a walk and horse riding, Cooleman Ridge Nature Reserve is a 187 hectare reserve in Weston Creek. The Canberra Centenary Trail runs right through the reserve, which connects to a 145 kilometre loop trail around Canberra that’s great for mountain biking. It’s also home to rare plants, woodland birds and a large population of the threatened pink-tailed worm-lizard, which makes it great for spotting wildlife.<img alt="WestonCreek_Image 2.jpg" class="richtext-image full-width" height="600" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/WestonCreek_Image_2.width-800.jpg" width="800"><a href="https://nationalzoo.com.au/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">NATIONAL ZOO AND AQUARIUM</a>Get up close and personal with a range of native and exotic animals at Canberra’s National Zoo and Aquarium. You can also pat a cheetah, feed a bear or become acquainted with a meerkat. Also at the zoo is Jamala Wildlife Lodge, an award-winning luxury safari accommodation experience, which lets guests wine, dine and sleep amongst the resident wildlife.FETHERSTON GARDENSWeston residents enjoy easy access to the beautiful Fetherston Gardens, a 3.5 hectare urban parkland that features a small arboretum, woodland gardens, a pond, native garden, secret garden, picnic areas, and gazebos where you can sit and take it all in.<h2>SHOP</h2><a href="http://beyondq.com.au/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">BEYOND Q</a>A treasure trove of rare and second hand books with more than 180,000 volumes in store, Beyond Q moved from its original location in Curtin to the arcade across from Cooleman Court back in 2017. The venue also has a licensed cafe and plays host to regular live music and comedy nights.<a href="https://www.missmossflorist.com.au/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">MISS MOSS FLORALS</a>Bursting with fresh blooms, indoor plants, terrariums, and potted succulents, Miss Moss Florals is the region’s go-to for custom floral designs and bouquets. It’s also a great spot to pick up a gift, with a range of Australian-made candles, homewares,<img alt="WestonCreek_Image 3.jpg" class="richtext-image full-width" height="600" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/WestonCreek_Image_3.width-800.jpg" width="800"><a href="https://www.coolemancourt.com.au/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">COOLEMAN COURT</a>The main shopping hub for Weston Creek, Cooleman Court has supermarkets, specialty stores, a medical centre, gym and eateries all under the one roof.<a href="https://songland.com.au/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">SONGLAND RECORDS</a>Known as the place to go for those hard to find items for more than two decades, Songland Records sells a huge range of CDs, vinyls and DVDS. The shop also has its own Ticketek outlet, where you can buy tickets to some of the top events in Canberra and beyond.<h2>EAT</h2><a href="https://pitch-black-cafe.business.site/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">PITCH BLACK CAFE</a>This friendly suburban cafe in Rivett has an all-day menu with breakfasts, burgers, pizzas, salads and cakes. With an industrial fitout inside, there’s plenty of outdoor seating and they’re more than welcoming of visitors of all ages, shapes and sizes, with high chairs for the bubs and water bowls for the pooches.<a href="https://www.meatingroom.com.au/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">MEATING ROOM</a>The main watering hole in Weston Creek, Meating Room keeps the local happy with all day dining. The menu takes you from a healthy acai bowl through to indulgent honeycomb and chocolate pancakes for breakfast, and later in the day, pub classics, pizzas, modern favourites, a menu for the kids, and as the name suggests, you’ll find plenty of meat. Pop up to the bar, lined with milk crate chandeliers, to order and grab a coffee or a refreshing beverage.<a href="https://www.facebook.com/LIttleBillysCafeRestaurant/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">LITTLE BILLY’S CAFE</a>Expect good old fashioned customer service at this Weston Creek cafe. Little Billy’s Cafe serves a hearty and affordable range of breakfast and lunch options with a touch of Italian flair.<a href="https://www.facebook.com/MaestralRestaurant/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">MAESTRAL SEAFOOD RESTAURANT</a>It may be a long way from the ocean, but locals know that Weston Creek has one of the best seafood restaurants in Canberra. Family-run Maestral Restaurant has been around for 22 years, serving up fresh seafood alongside traditional dishes from the owners’ native homeland of Croatia.<h2>LIVE</h2>The leafy suburbs of Weston Creek have homes across all budgets and sizes, from the more traditional, older houses of Chapman, to terraces near Cooleman Court and on Namatjira Drive, to the newer builds on Cazneau Street. Local parks in every suburb mean you’re never far from nature.<img alt="WestonCreek_Image 7.jpg" class="richtext-image full-width" height="600" src="https://d2t3vhau9g43uy.cloudfront.net/media/images/WestonCreek_Image_7.width-800.jpg" width="800">

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