December feels like a natural time for refection. Domain’s End-of-Year Wrap report, which landed this week and can be downloaded online, provides a snapshot of Canberra’s property market over 2025. You may be interested to learn a few highlights! Belconnen’s Charnwood recorded the highest auction clearance rate, hitting a whopping 91 per cent. The report also highlighted afordability contrasts: southern suburbs such as Chisholm and Theodore remain the most afordable per square metre, while Denman Prospect and Crace now rank as the most expensive. While we had interest rate cuts, afordability remained sticky, and locally, things don’t appear to be cooling down yet.
Three levels of tranquillity
Hidden away in the middle of buzzing Kingston is Canberra’s prettiest apartment street. Part of the boutique
The Holford building, the threebedroom townhouse at 4/2 Howitt Street promises to be a tranquil retreat from the city.
Designed to soothe and inspire, this home delivers calm and comfort in equal measure, says agent Nick Purnell of Purnell.
It is spread over three levels, with floor-to-ceiling windows looking out over leafy pin oaks and flooding the rooms with natural light.
The ground floor houses the mainbedroom suite with a private, sundappled courtyard. A modern kitchen and two living areas occupy the middle floor, while the upper level has two more bedrooms and a flexible space with built-in shelving. This could be a playroom or the library of your dreams.
A stunning French Invicta Tipi fireplace warms the home and makes for a functional piece of art.
The December 13 auction has a price guide of $1.85 million-plus.
Lucy Jones
Editor Laura Valic
laura.valic@domain.com.au
Senior designer Colleen Chin Quan
Graphic designer Emma Drake
Head of print & B2B content Sarah Millar
Group content director Mark Roppolo
Chief marketing officer Aisling Finch
President Jason Pellegrino
Sales leader Nick Tinling
Marketing manager Bree Baguley
Laura Valic
Words by Lucy Jones
10 Ryan Street
$2.35 million+ 5 3 2 EER 6
Private sale
Agent: Hayman Partners, Brett Hayman 0411 414 624
Behind a modest facade lies this expansive, elegant and beautifully executed home. The Hamptons-inspired interiors feature hardwood foors, high ceilings, bespoke craftsmanship and pops of nautical colour. The built-in dining booth in the kitchen will be a hit with the kids, while wet raincoats and dirty boots are kept out of sight in the dedicated mud room. A fexible layout, multiple living areas and sunny outdoor spaces will grow with your family over time.
Jerrabomberra
111 Waterfall Drive
$1.8 million-$1.9 million 5 3 4
Private sale
Agent: Jonny Warren Properties, Ben Mills 0422 765 130
Architectural design, impeccable craftsmanship and smart sustainability come together in this masterpiece home. From its elevated position, you’ll have 270-degree views over Canberra, greeting the sunrise from the main bedroom’s balcony and watching it dip below the horizon over drinks in the backyard. A hydronically heated concrete slab between levels, double glazing and a solar-passive design ensure summers stay cool and winters warm.
CLEARANCE RATE
63%
Source: Domain Group
What our expert says
Dr Nicola Powell Chief of research & economics
“Canberra buyers chased liveability in 2025 – pools and courtyards climbed in searches, while Ainslie, Wanniassa and Kambah drew the city’s strongest buyer attention.”
Source: Domain 2025 End of Year Wrap report.
6 Dalabon Crescent
$1.749 million+
6 3 2 EER 6
SALE
$3,062,500 DEAKIN
4 Normanby Crescent Sold by Luton Properties Manuka
Private sale
Agent: Marq Property, Nik Brozinic 0400 280 728
Walk in, unpack and relax in this brand-new home in a sought-after pocket of Weston Creek. Spread out across a single level, sunlight foods the open-plan living area through skylights and oversized windows. Marble kitchen benchtops and ambient LED lighting create an elegant canvas ready for your personal touches. A spacious, self-contained two-bedroom apartment is attached to the main house, giving options for extended family living.
This heritage cottage is a classic example of Walter Burley Grifn’s vision for a “garden city”. Fairview was built in 1927 and is one of Reid’s most recognisable homes. Inside is a mix of period-perfect rooms and modern features, such as a sparkling entertainer’s kitchen, all surrounded by a glorious arts-and-crafts-style garden. This is a “rare opportunity to own a home that’s both a landmark and a lifestyle”, the agent says.
Narrabundah
2 Bareena Street
$1.47 million-1.57 million
4 1 2 EER 3
Private sale
Agent: Belle Property Canberra, Janae McLister 0402 114 377
Enjoy the best of the Inner South lifestyle in this charming cottage just minutes from the Parliamentary Triangle. A single-level layout suits families, couples or downsizers, and a separate studio space brings opportunities for remote work or creative pursuits. A sunny north-facing outlook, updated kitchen and bathroom, and striking design elements make for a welcoming home. The low-maintenance garden has an abundance of native plants, graceful silver birches and multiple al fresco entertaining areas.
Waramanga
Words by Laura Valic
Landmark park an ‘asset’ for generations
The vision for a thriving, connected community in South Jerrabomberra has taken a signifcant leap forward with the ofcial opening of the South Jerrabomberra Town Park and community centre.
The event, held in November, marked the completion of a major collaborative project between The Village Building Company and the Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council (QPRC).
Spanning 2.5 hectares, the new town park is already fulflling its promise as the region’s leading family recreation spot, boasting high-quality amenities designed for all ages and abilities.
The centrepiece is the region’s largest free splash pad, and a large all-abilities playground featuring swings, slides and nature play elements.
The park also ofers an outdoor gym, a half basketball court and a village oval alongside barbecues and picnic shelters.
NSW Minister for Regional Development, Tara Moriarty, says the opening marked an important milestone for the community.
“This expansive park is set to become a place where children of all ages can explore, splash about in the water play areas, and learn to ride along the fantastic bike tracks,” she says.
“It is exciting to see the town park and community centre become a reality supported through the NSW government’s Regional Job Precinct Program.
“[It will be] a true asset to our community for generations to come.”
Adjacent to the park, the now operational community centre provides essential infrastructure for local activities and events.
Solar-powered with on-site battery storage, the fexible space is available for hire through QPRC. It includes four versatile function rooms, two fully equipped kitchens, and a bar area.
The Village Building Company deputy chief executive, Rob Fisher, says the construction of innovative facilities is part of the development’s plan to encourage thriving communities.
“The Town Park and Community Centre aren’t just facilities; they’re spaces designed for connection, activity and a genuine sense of belonging,” he says.
The community hub will soon be complemented by the South Jerrabomberra Town Centre, which is set to include a supermarket, cafes with outdoor dining, retail outlets and specialty stores.
Construction is due to commence in early 2026 with an anticipated opening in 2027.
Water play: The splash park was a hit with families at the South Jerrabomberra Town Park and community centre opening.
Inclusive infrastructure: The all-abilities playground features swings, slides, climbing frames and nature-play elements.
FEATURE PROPERTY
Words by Laura Valic
A space shaped by its environment
The Bush Capital’s natural setting has fuelled the demand for lifestyle properties. These homes allow residents to enjoy open spaces and a connection to nature, whether for farming, recreation or country living, while remaining close to the city. Some properties truly elevate the experience, and 47 Lumley Road in Wamboin stands as a shining example. A long driveway leads up to a stunning architect-designed home, defned by rich timber cladding and black-andwhite accents.
Private sale
Agent: Belle Property Queanbeyan, Ryan Broadhurst 0417 513 896
The luxurious single-level structure essentially comprises two wings. One contains three bedrooms and two bathrooms, plus a playroom or multipurpose space, and the other features the open-plan kitchen-diningliving area and the main-bedroom suite. Internally, the palette is elegant, with polished concrete foors and expansive windows that draw in natural light and open up to gorgeous views of the surrounding countryside.
The sleek kitchen with premium appliances and butler’s pantry forms
Scan the code to see the listing
the heart of the home, while a second living space – fanked by a southern and northern terrace – is highlighted by a cosy freplace and a dedicated study space with built-in storage. For families seeking space and versatility, the property also includes a fully self-contained two-bedroom studio that can accommodate guests or multigenerational living.
Outside, a basketball court, fenced dog yard and auto-irrigated gardens complement the home’s modern rural aesthetic.
BEHIND THE LISTING
Words by Karen Hardy
Bought for family and making memories after the 2003 bushfres, Robert de Castella’s sprawling home awaits its next custodians.
In January 2003, world champion marathon runner Robert de Castella was on the South Coast with his family when they received the news that bushfres were threatening the outskirts of Canberra.
By the time they returned, their Chapman home was gone.
The fre destroyed everything, save for a few medals from de Castella’s illustrious running career, which were found smouldering in the rubble.
“We lost beautiful art, memorabilia, things I had collected from around
the world during my running career,” de Castella says.
“My wife, Theresa, had just relocated all her late father’s personal belongings to our place, but it was all gone.
“If that taught us anything, it was that physical things aren’t as important as we sometimes think they are.”
The ordeal brought into sharper focus what really mattered to the de Castellas: “Family, social connections and making memories.”
This is why they bought 10 Mialli Place in O’Malley as their next home.
After a stellar run, it’s time to sell up
The expansive seven-bedroom, sevenbathroom house was one they could envisage as the backdrop to the next phase of their lives.
“We’ve had so many great family gatherings here; there has been room for my children and grandchildren –there’s space for everyone,” de Castella says of the property, which ofers an incredible 846 square metres under roof, including garaging.
“They might be in the pool, or in the yard; we’ll go for walks with the dogs up on the trails in the reserve. It’s been a truly wonderful place to live.”
Despite the joy and space the home provided for their family, the sheer size that once ofered room for everyone is now prompting a change of pace for the couple.
“It’s a big house; you could probably lose yourself in it,” de Castella says.
Or at least run a mini-marathon from one end to the other?
“Almost,” he says, laughing. “But I’ll show you where I get most of my exercise when I’m home.”
Both Robert and Theresa practice traditional Okinawan karate and have built a dojo in the basement that would be the envy of many professionals.
“That space was one of the main selling points when we bought 20 years ago; it’s going to be hard to replicate that,” he says.
At 68, de Castella is still a passionate advocate for health and ftness, and believes working on mobility, agility and fexibility should be a part of people’s everyday lives as they age.
It’s been 43 years since he won the Commonwealth Games gold medal in front of a home crowd in Brisbane in 1982, battling the humidity and a strong feld, but he still runs daily, jumps on his mountain bike or enjoys a session in the dojo. And the indoor pool? Was he ever a swimmer? “Ha, not really. I was only ever in the pool when I was injured, doing rehab, so it still has that connection for me.”
Situated on a 1356-square-metre block in an elevated cul-de-sac, the house spans three levels, with formal and informal living areas and versatile spaces that can be turned into home ofces, extra bedrooms or reading nooks. Each bedroom has its own en suite, while the luxurious main bedroom has views across the city to Black Mountain. There’s also a sauna and an al fresco dining area for family barbecues.
Moving on: After a couple of decades at their spacious O’Malley home, Robert de Castella and his wife seek a change of pace.
O’Malley 10 Mialli Place
Contact agent
7 7 5 EER 3
Private sale
Agent: Luton Properties Manuka, Sophie Luton 0410 750 413
Scan the code to see the listing
“We’ve had so many great family gatherings here; there has been room for my children and grandchildren.” Robert de Castella
The lower level, where the dojo is situated, has its own entry, kitchenette and powder room, and could serve as a professional suite or extended-family living space.
Throw in a fve-car garage and additional parking, a workshop, cellar and storerooms, plus its excellent location close to Woden, and this home is ready for a new family to move in.
The de Castellas are keen to stay in Canberra. Robert grew up in Melbourne, where he began his training under Pat Clohessy as a teenager, but Canberra is home now. Ideally, they’d love to move to the Molonglo Valley, close to Stromlo Forest Park, which Robert helped create as part of a task force after the bushfres.
“Stromlo Forest is a beautiful location,” de Castella says. “When I’m out there, it makes me realise that even though we all get impacted by struggles and difcult times, if you endure and stay positive, and you’ve got people around you, things not only recover, they can be better.”
Memories: Medals were salvaged after the bushfires, and de Castella with the Sydney Olympics torch he carried through Canberra.
Versatile: On an elevated 1356-square-metre block, the three-level house offers a wide range of formal and informal living areas, and multipurpose spaces.
Words by Elly Johnston
An exciting new chapter has begun at The Grove in Ngunnawal.
The frst residents have now settled into the village’s Stage 1 villas, and work has progressed on one of the most signifcant sustainability milestones in Australian retirement living.
Developed by Keyton, the community has quickly become sought after by over-55s seeking long-term liveability in Canberra’s north. Stage 1, comprising 15 independent living units, is now complete and sold out, with residents already immersing themselves in village life.
According to Keyton’s ACT senior development manager, Sarah Forbes, the response from new home owners has been overwhelmingly positive.
“Stage 1 residents have settled into their new homes and are actively building friendships with new and existing residents,” she says.
“They’re enjoying the numerous village activities, such as water aerobics in the indoor heated pool, and testing out their vocals in the village choir group. There’s already a warm and welcoming atmosphere.”
New standard in sustainable living
Stage 1: The first 15 independent living units at Keyton’s new over-55s community have all sold.
At a glance
The Grove Monty Place, Ngunnawal Village open hours: Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm Sales: Keyton, Rob Rowe 1800 550 550 EER: 7
Feature we love: The thoughtful designs that allow for easy modifications to accommodate future living requirements.
From the developer: “All villas have been designed to achieve an average NatHERS rating of 7.2 stars, exceeding the minimum code requirement.”
Future-proofed: The villas have been designed so residents can age in place.
One of the most impressive updates at The Grove is the village’s Passive House villa. According to Forbes, this is the frst Australian home within a retirement community designed to be certifed to rigorous Passive House standards.
“Passive House requires a standard of design and construction that can achieve a high level of energy efciency in operation and minimal loads for heating and cooling,” she says.
The result? A home that stays comfortable year-round, with constant mechanical ventilation of fresh air, signifcantly reduced noise, and substantially lower energy consumption.
Your one chance to live Passive
3 Bed I 2 Bath I 2 Car | Move in early 2026
“It’s not just energy efcient, it’s healthier, quieter and easier to maintain,” Forbes says.
The Passive House villa – along with the remaining 29 villas and homestead –is set for completion in early 2026.
Beyond the landmark Passive House, sustainability is embedded throughout the entire development.
“All villas have been designed to achieve an average NatHERS rating of 7.2 stars, exceeding the minimum code requirement,” Forbes says.
“Each villa includes a 4.5-kilowatt solar PV system and a rainwater tank for landscaping.”
The Grove also contributes to Keyton’s 5-Star Green Star Communities rating, refecting its environmental contribution to the local area.
Central to the project’s philosophy has been ensuring residents can age comfortably in their homes.
“All villas are thoughtfully designed to allow easy modifcations for adaptable living requirements,” Forbes explains.
“This includes step-free pathways and showers, wide corridors and garages
ftted with 15-amp power points for residents who own, or who may one day own, an electric vehicle.”
Demand for quality retirement living options in the ACT continues to rise quickly. Between now and 2040, the number of Australians aged over 75 is expected to increase by 70 per cent.
“There is a large undersupply of retirement homes in the ACT compared to local demand,” Forbes says.
Purpose-built communities such as The Grove, she says, will play an increasingly important role in easing pressure on hospitals and aged care facilities while delivering much-needed housing diversity.
With its blend of community, sustainability, and innovation, The Grove is poised to remain one of Canberra’s most forward-thinking retirement villages. Scan the code to see the listing
• Year-Round Comfort: A stable indoor temperature of 18° to 25°C, keeping your home warm in winter and cool in summer.*
•Healthier Living: Breathe easier with continuous air circulation and filtration that delivers superior indoor air quality.
•Comfort and livability: Maximised solar orientation ensures natural warmth and light throughout the day.
•Energy efficiency that pays off: Save on heating & cooling costs through high performance insulation, air-tight construction and triple glazed windows.
To find out more, book an appointment today.
Words by Lisa Hogan
Homes where the living is (fnally) easy
Intuitive layouts, healthy materials and cleaner air create supportive environments for people with chronic illnesses.
For people who live with chronic illnesses – sometimes referred to as “spoonies” – our homes, workspaces and places we visit are more than buildings; they’re environments that afect our daily health.
Designing or adapting inclusive, accessible and hypoallergenic buildings with thoughtful layouts and lighting, healthier materials, and better air and water quality can go a long way in improving everyday life.
I love to mention simplicity because life with a chronic illness comes with an extra mental load and expense. When we designed our home, focusing on a more “minimal-ish” than minimalist approach has reduced stress, sparked joy and freed up energy for the things we love.
Accessible design
Universal design goes beyond compliance with building codes and the more recognisable features, such as ramps. It’s about creating environments that are intuitive, comfortable and life-enhancing for people of all abilities, including the full spectrum of chronic conditions. For example, I need fresh air for my severe immune, digestive and connective tissue conditions, while other conditions might need more sensory or ergonomic considerations.
Flowing layouts, with wide doorways and hallways, open-plan zones and thoughtful storage can reduce mental load and visual clutter.
For example, this may include designing for how clients actually use their spaces,
such as creating dedicated “work-frombed” rooms or “rest nooks” with essentials within reach for those fared days. Ergonomic or adjustable-height surfaces, carefully placed switches, power points and technology, and easy-to-clean surfaces all make a diference to daily comfort.
Prioritising someone’s independence and joy – including thoughtful personal touches – creates spaces that facilitate less painful, more enjoyable activity.
Clever light and sound design, glare, sound and echo reduction can help people with sensory conditions by creating a calm environment that nourishes rather than fatigues the senses.
Architects, interior designers and builders will also ensure buildings
Calm: Open-plan areas and sensible storage can reduce mental load.
“Accessible design is not about expense or Instagram worthiness, but using design to transform spaces into supportive environments.” Lisa Hogan
adhere to all relevant standards, including accessible design. Creative consultant Ashley Feraude says local architects are incorporating accessible and inclusive design more than ever.
“In my experience of creating The Look In Instagram stories about many unique homes in Canberra, it’s defnitely noticeable that Canberra architects increasingly prioritise accessible and inclusive design in residential projects,” he says. “The architects, in partnership with like-minded builders, are often creating spaces that are functional, welcoming and compliant with national standards. From step-free entries and wide doorways to adaptable layouts and intuitive wayfnding, they integrate features that cater to people of all ages and abilities.”
Feraude adds that by mixing thoughtful planning with modern aesthetics, building professionals ensure “designs are not only practical but also visually appealing, fostering built environments that everyone can call home”.
North Wright Sustainable Precinct
Located in the Molonglo Valley suburb of Wright, the Suburban Land Agency’s North Wright Sustainable Precinct showcases the match made in heaven that is sustainable design, accessibility, healthy indoor air quality, and inclusivity for people with chronic illnesses.
“The frst stage of the precinct features two and three-bedroom homes designed with sustainability and environment in mind, with up to 8.9-star energy efciency rating (NatHERS), airtight construction and its own electricity generation,” the Suburban Land Agency writes.
“These homes will be cost-efcient to heat and cool, and are built with the aim of achieving a net-zero carbon footprint over their lifetime.
“Each home meets the Liveable Silver design standard, which enhances accessibility. Additional features include heat recovery ventilation that lets fltered, fresh air into the homes while retaining comfortable temperatures, low-VOC paints and surfaces, Paperock benchtops and joinery units, ECO carpets, and outdoor landscaping.”
This fosters a healthy living environment indoors and outdoors, ideal for people with allergies or chronic health issues, especially during extreme seasons or weather events such as heatwaves, pollen or smoke pollution.
What a dream to live in a community valuing healthy and environmentally conscious design choices!
Hypoallergenic materials
The ability to breathe clean air is everything for people with immune conditions, including chemical sensitivity, asthma and allergies.
The choice of building materials, paints and fnishes plays a crucial role in reducing airborne triggers.
The National Asthma Council Australia’s Sensitive Choice program is a leading voice. It provides a database of verifed allergy-inclusive products and materials.
According to Sensitive Choice, before a product or service is approved, “it is reviewed by an expert panel, who considers whether it is suitable to carry our blue butterfy and ofers a potential beneft to those with asthma and allergies”.
I’ve lived with illness for 40 years, long before low or zero-VOC materials were commonly available like they are today.
It’s a delight to see leading brands embracing healthier formulations in paints, sealants, glues, fooring, fabrics and more, and to see the aisles of hardware stores stocked with sustainable options.
Natural materials such as glass, cement, ceramic, wood, cotton and wool are great supportive options for spoonies. Local craftsman such as Thors Hammer are transforming recycled and reclaimed timbers into stunning furniture and home joinery, reducing waste and creating healthier buildings.
Ask the experts
When making repairs or improvements to your home, just ask your experts about low-VOC materials and other options for chronic illness needs, such as running extractor fans or air flters during installations.
I’ve had some great experiences with local companies respecting our hypoallergenic home.
Fresh air
Air quality is a fundamental and complex part of inclusive design for chronic illness. Many aspects must be considered to create buildings with healthy air and prevent moisture, bacteria and mould.
These include airfow, ventilation, window and door placement, insulation, moisture control, sealing, solar orientation and air temperature.
Air-conditioners, dehumidifers, exhaust fans and HEPA air fltration systems can help maintain chronic illness-friendly spaces. These systems often include air-quality meters and even apps to allow air quality to be monitored, especially important in pollen or bushfre seasons.
Temperature and humidity can be the diference between a healthy day and a fare for many chronic illness conditions.
Making your space your own
Perfect match: Stage one of the North
Wright Sustainable Precinct project.
Monaro Screens in Fyshwick provided silicone sealant material safety sheets for our new shower screens and found a hypoallergenic option, while Solar Wash & Gutter Clean was able to clean our two-storey gutters without chemicals.
I feel grateful every day to fnally be in our clean, fresh-air-flled forever home. I wish for other spoonies to have the opportunity to live in a home that supports their unique chronic condition – an accessible, hypoallergenic sanctuary. Whether tiny or large, accessible design is not about expense or Instagram worthiness, but using design to transform spaces into supportive environments.
Sensitive: The North Wright homes were built using low-VOC paints, Paperock benchtops and joinery units, and ECO carpets.
Words by Jil Hogan
Lapping up the ‘big reveal’
You could be forgiven for expecting something modest from a frst glance at 15 Jelbart Street in Mawson. In fact, with a facade largely hidden behind lush gardens, it would be hard to know what to expect at all. But some homes save their best stories for once you step inside.
In there lies a sprawling family retreat set across a huge 2146 square metres of beautifully terraced, landscaped grounds. Its classic Pettit & Sevitt design combines split levels, natural materials, soaring windows and a timeless sense
of fow that intimately connects it to its surroundings.
Two distinct wings shape the home, giving large families ample space, privacy and fexibility. Light-flled living areas overlook gardens, while the renovated kitchen pairs timber accents with stone surfaces, storage and a leafy outlook.
Hybrid timber foors run throughout the kitchen, dining and hallway, softening the modern palette and anchoring the home in natural textures.
Each bathroom has been tastefully renovated in earthy tones with
“This timeless, sunkissed Pettit & Sevitt design has been tastefully renovated, is sited on an impressive 2146-square-metre block and is the ideal retreat for … those wanting space and seclusion.” contemporary fxtures, while the bedrooms – fve in total – enjoy garden views and generous storage.
A rumpus room on the lower level opens directly to the outdoors, creating a natural transition to the expansive backyard.
And what a backyard it is. A solarheated pool, multiple courtyards, mature gardens and quiet pockets for reading or cofee add up to a private outdoor sanctuary. Fruit trees, fowering maples, veggie gardens and broad lawns turn the block into a living landscape.
It’s minutes from
Centre, yet Mawson is lively enough to feel like its own hub. Parks, clubs, schools and leafy pockets create a precinct that feels vibrant and effortlessly connected.
Auction: Noon, December 13
Woden Town
Michael Potter
Michael Potter Real Estate
GARDENING
Words by Tammy Huynh
Before you set of on your wellearned break, take a moment to plan for the plants you’ll be leaving behind, both indoors and outdoors. Whether you’re heading of for one or a few weeks, a little prep now can help keep your plants happy and healthy while you’re away.
Set, soak, go
To protect outdoor garden beds and pots, mulch around the base of your plants to slow evaporation and keep the soil moist for longer. Organic options like bark or straw break down over time, adding nutrients to the soil, while inorganic options such as pea gravel or pebbles last longer and require less maintenance. For potted plants, water thoroughly and allow the saucers to fll. While leaving standing water isn’t usually recommended, for a short holiday, it gives your plants a little extra supply without harm.
Move pots into shadier spots or use a large umbrella to soften harsh sunlight. If you can, consider installing an automated irrigation system. It doesn’t need to be fancy; a simple soaker hose connected to a timer works well for garden beds, or a drip system for pots. You can also upgrade to a smart system that adjusts watering based on local weather conditions.
Short on time? Reach out to a neighbour, friend or professional plantsitter (yes, they’re a thing!) and aim to give your plants a good soak and mulch before you go.
Inside job
If you’re away for a few days to a week or so, just give your house plants a good drink before you leave. For longer absences, a few extra adjustments can help keep them thriving.
Move plants closer together and a little away from their usual light source. The tighter grouping increases humidity around the leaves, slowing evaporation. With reduced light, plants also grow more slowly and take up less water, so moisture lasts much longer. Alongside careful positioning, there are a few clever ways to keep your plants hydrated. A simple wick system, using a cotton or nylon cord with one end sitting in a container of water and the other fed into the bottom of your pot, delivers moisture gradually as the soil dries. If you have a few plants and a bath, line the base with an old towel, add enough water to fully soak and cover the towel, then place your pots on top. The wet towel acts like a capillary mat, allowing the soil to draw up the moisture.
Turn over a new leaf
Love indoor plants but struggle to keep them alive? My latest book, The Plant Book, is an illustrated guide with detailed care information for 50 popular houseplants, plus a chapter on troubleshooting common problems.
Tammy Huynh is a horticulturist, a presenter on Gardening Australia and the owner of Leaf an Impression. leafanimpression.com.au
NICKY RYAN
MAWSON 15 Jelbart Street
AUCTION Sat 13/12/2025, 12 noon onsite
VIEWING Sat 6/12/2025, 10.50-11.20am Sun 7/12/2025, 10.50-11.20am
CONTACT
Michael Potter 0413 830 598
Rick Jordan 0417 664 334
A unique find set across an impressive 2146m2 landholding and showcasing a versatile, classic ‘Pettit and Sevitt’ design. A timeless style that embraces an abundance of light, clean lines, warm, natural materials and a strong connection with nature.
Two distinct wings align perfectly to the needs of a larger family, delivering a choice of bedrooms and multiple living spaces that are complemented by sleek, designer bathrooms and a tastefully renovated kitchen.
Private entertaining courtyards and an inviting inground pool are perfectly framed by stunning established gardens that provide privacy and a lively blend of texture and seasonal colour. EER 1
GILMORE 9 Hain Place
AUCTION Sat 13/12/2025, 2pm onsite
VIEWING Sat 6/12/2025, 12.30-1pm Sun 7/12/2025, 12.30-1pm
CONTACT Michael Potter 0413 830 598 Rick Jordan 0417 664 334
Nature at your doorstep
Backing reserve and snuggled into the landscape of Hain Place is this private, secluded family retreat that delivers the perfect blend of comfort, segregation and privacy, integrated with a warm and inviting, generously scaled layout.
Exposed timber raked ceilings and the rich texture of shiny slate flooring brings a natural character to the interiors. Where every space reflects the home’s immaculate presentation, highlighting its visual and stylish appeal.
Immersed amongst established, mature gardens is a spacious entertaining area, a relaxed setting for year-round gatherings. EER 2.5
GOWRIE 6 Dartnell Street
AUCTION Wed 17/12/2025, 6.30pm onsite
VIEWING Sat 6/12/2025, 11.40-12.10pm Sun 7/12/2025, 11.40-12.10pm
Inviting family retreat
Spacious family residence elevated in the heights of Gowrie and nestled amongst a leafy suburban outlook.
A family friendly design features multiple indoor and outdoor living areas where cooking, dining and relaxation unite. The main bedroom is segregated from the other three, both bathrooms have been tastefully renovated and the generous sized kitchen is both functional and modern.
The final draw card is a secluded, covered outdoor area that offers engaging cameos across a crystal clear, inground pool and a mature, established garden setting. EER 1.5
Momentum Property is Canberra’s newest Real Estate agency, built on experience, driven by results, and focused on doing things better. Our team combines years of local knowledge with a fresh, energetic approach to Real Estate, ofering clear advice, honest communication, and a seamless experience from start to fnish.
Whether you’re buying, selling, or renting, we believe every property journey should feel informed, supported, and genuinely rewarding. Our sales team is committed to delivering standout results through insight, strategy, and care, whilst our Property Management specialists ensure every investment is managed with the same level of dedication and attention to detail.
At Momentum Property, we’re proud to represent a new way of doing Real Estate in Canberra, where relationships come frst, excellence is the standard, and progress is always in motion. Get in touch with our team today and discover how we can help you move forward with confdence.
ARCHITECTURALLY DESIGNED DEAKIN SANCTUARY OF LIGHT & LUXURY
WHAT YOU SEE
A 2022 architect-designed single-level home with a smart split-floorplan separating living and accommodation, high ceilings and natural light throughout. A private guest suite sits at the front, leading to open living anchored by a premium kitchen with gas cooking, walk-in pantry and full visibility over dining and family spaces. Indoor comfort flows to a covered alfresco, with a north-facing orientation, a luxurious master retreat with dual walk-ins, generous secondary bedrooms and a versatile yoga/multipurpose room. High-end systems include dual-zone ducted A/C, 16kW solar, irrigation, CCTV, keypad entry and thoughtful zoning via sliding doors.
WHAT WE SEE
A turnkey, high-end home where every detail has already been handled.
Talpa Estate combines elevated views, peaceful surrounds and outstanding connectivity to Googong, Queanbeyan and Canberra. Talpa’s thoughtfully designed blocks ofer the fexibility to create a home that suits your lifestyle — whether upsizing, planning for multi-generational living or embracing the outdoors with space to grow.
COAST & COUNTRY
Words by Jil Hogan
Tura Beach
55 Bournda Circuit
$1.495 million
4 2 2
Private sale
Agent: James Smith Property, James Smith 0408 555 139
With panoramic views over Bournda Island, this is where relaxed coastal living meets everyday life. Sunlit living spaces fow to a large deck, while the kitchen features a stone waterfall island and premium appliances. The main-bedroom suite is a secluded retreat, while a media room adds additional living space. There’s a spot to park a boat or caravan.
Cooma 1 Cromwell Street
$1.3 million 5 3 2
Private sale Agent: Belle Property Snowy Mountains, Kelly Bertossi 0435 367 231
In the heart of Cooma, this restored Victorian beauty blends heritage charm with modern ease. Its pale pink facade sets a romantic tone, while inside, high ceilings and decorative freplaces meet light-flled open living that spills onto a private deck. With a tennis court, wine cellar, sauna and a separate studio apartment, it’s a characterflled home with standout lifestyle appeal.
• Family owned for 60+ years, prime location only 10min* to Yass, 1hr* Canberra & 3hrs* Sydney
• ‘Cottage Farm’ — 81.29ha* (200.87ac*), secure water w/ 5 dams, dual creek frontage including Blakney Creek & natural springs, well fenced into 6 paddocks, woolshed, 3 bay m/shed, 30t & 15t silos, sheep yards + cattle yards
• ‘Rossmere’ — 93.33ha* (230.62ac*), secure water w/ 4 dams, creek frontage + natural springs, well fenced into 5 paddocks, newly built 12mx8m 3 bay m/shed w/ workshop + hay shed & building entitlement
Words by Ray Sparvell
Get in on the ground foor at The Jamieson
Constitution Avenue in Reid has been enjoying substantial reactivation in recent years – read that as planning-speak for “it’s got busier and more popular”.
Perhaps that’s just the beginning, as construction has begun on the UNSW Canberra City campus, with a completion date of early 2028.
The precinct, considered the northern part of the Parliamentary Triangle, runs east-west through Reid and Parkes.
That backstory surely puts a very warm glow around this commercial space in The Jamieson mixed-use development. It ofers 209 square metres of space flled with natural light and with a full ofce ftout.
The property comprises a reception area, open-plan workspace, boardroom and meeting room, and a kitchenette.
There are two toilets, one with a shower – the perfect end-of-trip facility after the
bike has been secured in the basement cage, close to the unit’s six parking bays.
Chris Antos of Sentia Real Estate says the ground-foor space is zoned for professional services or recreation.
“It’s perfect for a small practice, perhaps accountancy, legal,
Accelerating success.
architectural and so on,” he says. “Equally, [deftted] it would also provide a great space for a Pilates or yoga studio or similar.”
Any of those options may likely fnd a resident customer base within The Jamieson, which comprises 89 apartments.
