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Quirky and colourful: ‘It’s almost like stepping into Alice in Wonderland’

This colourful Kelburn home has quirky architecture, three levels, city views and a much-loved history.

Colleen Hawkes
Last updated: 18 September 2026 | 3 min read
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A unique Kelburn home, designed by owner-architect Ross Brown, is for sale. Known for its quirky, colourful "Alice in Wonderland" character, this property caused a stir when built in 1982.

Spanning three levels, it offers three bedrooms, soaring ceilings, and stunning city and harbour views. Key features include a double-height sunroom, a dramatic top-floor studio, and a charming 1980s kitchen.

This beloved family home, listed with Harcourts, is a rare architectural gem with a rich community history.

The house in Glasgow Street is going to auction on October 9. Photo: Harcourts

Victoria and Juliet Ferguson, who grew up here, say it has been wonderful seeing their young daughters make their own memories. Photo: Harcourts

The double-height sunroom is off the living area. Photo: Harcourts

The house has been recently refreshed with new carpet and interior paint. Photo: Harcourts

There’s a mezzanine level on the second floor that overlooks the living area. Photo: Harcourts

This was the favourite hangout for the Ferguson girls when they were teens. It is believed this was the architect’s studio. Photo: Harcourts

Everything has been well maintained in the house, including the original ‘80s kitchen. Photo: Harcourts

There are quirky features at every turn. Photo: Harcourts

The colour palette on the interior is more subdued than the exterior. Photo: Harcourts

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Colleen Hawkes Colleen Hawkes
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