19 September 2024

Updated Oliphant masterpiece is more than a slice of history in Ainslie

| Jacqueline Lyons
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White house surrounded by trees

Built in 1939, this home at 21 Lister Crescent in Ainslie is ready for its next chapter. Photos: Ray White.

Canberra’s first private architect, Ken Oliphant, designed some of Canberra’s most revered houses, like Calthorpes House, the Alcorn House on National Circuit and Sorrell St, and the Fraser House on Bougainville and Furneaux streets in Manuka, as well as the 26 homes now known as the Forrest Urban Conservation Area.

Among his works is 21 Lister Crescent from 1939 – now a three-bedroom, one-bathroom family home in historic Ainslie.

Sited on a 1058 sqm block, Ray White licensed agent Dan Cooper says the cottage, fondly known as ‘Lochiel’, has stood the test of time.

“It’s had some renovations over the years that have really helped keep it up to date and very comfortable,” Dan says.

“The changes improved the house, but they have also managed to keep many of the original features, so you still get a sense of that history.

“It’s very private and quiet, but it’s still very central to the city, so you get the best of both worlds.”

A stone pathway leads you up to the front door of the house that opens up into a spacious carpeted lounge room complete with a fireplace and double-glazed windows, creating a comfortable place to unwind and gather on chilly Canberra evenings.

Original wood framing on the doors to the living and dining spaces retains the classic style of Oliphant’s design.

Dan says the previous owners have made some substantial changes to the house, extending it to create more living area at the rear of the home.

The kitchen, living and dining rooms are decked out with hard-timber flooring providing a homely feel to the cottage.

The kitchen combines timber storage and a marble island bench top, offering a contemporary design with a gas stove cooktop, dishwasher and oven.

The ample open-plan living space provides lots of options when it comes to furnishing and entertaining. This area opens directly out to both a veranda and a covered deck overlooking the gardens at the back of the house, so you have plenty of opportunities for outdoor dining.

A large, closed-off and private backyard is filled with beautiful plants, including ready-to-use veggie patches, tall trees and native plants.

All three bedrooms feature generous windows and neutral colours, making them the perfect blank canvas to make the space your own.

The bathroom has the luxury of heated flooring, a bath and shower, as well as a separate toilet.

Keeping cool in summer and warm in winter is made easy with ducted reverse cycle air conditioning and an additional gas wall furnace in the family room (and don’t forget you also have a fireplace!)

The property also includes a Rinnai Infinity 26 gas hot water system, a Ness D8 security alarm system, a small rainwater tank and extra storage space located next to the garage.

Costs will be kept down thanks to a 4.77 kW solar system fed by 18 Jinko smart panels.

When it comes to location, it’s hard to beat Lister Crescent.

The Canberra city centre is a leisurely 30-minute amble, or if you’re more adventurous, Mount Ainslie is practically at your doorstep, while amenities like the ever-popular Edgars Pub and award-winning Pilot restaurant are within easy walking distance.

For families, primary and secondary schools are a stone’s throw away.

To learn more about 21 Lister Crescent in Ainslie, contact Ray White licensed agent Dan Cooper on 0412 773 938 and keep an eye on all listings on Zango.

Original Article published by Jacqueline Lyons on Riotact.

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