To compile our tally of some of the most expensive homes that sold in Australia during the first half of 2014, we sorted through the listings of HomeHound. All but one of our top 10 multimillion-dollar homes is located in NSW; no. 5 is on Queensland’s Gold Coast. If there is one common element that unites these pricey pads, it is unfettered water views. Almost every palatial home was perched on Sydney Harbour, or on the northern beaches. A Point Piper mansion on Wolseley Road, the priciest street in the country, occupies the number one slot. It sold for a reported $38 million.
1: 112 wolseley road point piper nsw 2027
With staggering views of Sydney Harbour, this multi-level, David Katon-designed residence creates quite a splash—even in gilded Point Piper. It boasts a sprawling terrace, private jetty, five bedrooms, and an indoor-outdoor experience so seamless that it renders the art of feng shui superfluous.
2: 22 drumalbyn road bellevue hill nsw 2023
The numbers associated with this neo-Georgian manor in Bellevue Hill are impressive enough: 8 bedrooms; 10 bathrooms; 12-car main garage. Add opulent touches like a colonnaded foyer, enormous living room, infinity pool, landscaped garden and heated stone floors and it makes for a heady combination.
3: 76 hudson parade clareville nsw 2107
This tri-level waterfront sanctuary in northern Sydney comes with its own exclusive beach, fully equipped boatshed and an amphibious Sealegs power boat. Hand-carved doors, reclaimed hardwoods, and free-flowing living areas create an idyllic zen-like ambiance that evokes a super-luxe resort.
4: 45 springdale road killara nsw 2071
Talk about an attention-grabbing entrance: The foyer of this sumptuous Sydney mansion immediately seduces with its dual wrought iron staircase, dark marble floor and grand chandelier. The rest of the meticulously manicured dwelling is equally impressive, as are its breathtaking gardens and koi pond.
5: 26 marseille court sorrento qld 4217
This riverfront Gold Coast palace is perched on 6,508m2 grounds and is equipped with all the appurtenances of luxurious design. Inspired by a stately Caribbean home, it features a dazzling porte-cochere, theatrical double staircase, expansive living areas and numerous recreational facilities.
6. 71 bay street double bay nsw 2028
A few decades ago this harbourside eastern suburb of Sydney was dubbed “Double Pay” for its exclusive airs. But abodes as stylish as this one underscore its appeal. Situated on a leafy cul-de-sac, it has an invitingly airy layout, high ceilings, five bedrooms and is a few footsteps to the beach.
7: 9 peronne avenue clontarf nsw 2093
An impeccable Smith & Tzannes-designed residence that expertly balances inviting contemporary interiors with magnificent vistas of Sydney’s Middle Harbour. The sweeping living areas, state-of-the-art technology, and sliding glass walls lend it an exhilarating allure.
8: 69 carabella street kirribilli nsw 2061/24984868
Designed in 1905 by feted architect James Peddle, this Federation home has been expertly modernised with harmonious living areas, a timber-panelled games room and an outdoor terrace that plays up the panoramic Sydney Harbour views.
9: 91 ocean avenue double bay nsw 2028
With its harbourfront setting, impressive proportions and South of France-inspired nuances, this Sydney abode makes a bold statement. Architect Espie Dodds devised a fluid layout that effortlessly merges the indoor and outdoor spaces.
10: 66-68 florida road palm beach nsw 2108
An oasis nestled in the tranquil surroundings of Palm Beach, this ravishing residence melds cozy warmth with modern elegance. It has seven airy bedrooms, an architect-designed kitchen, and truly sophisticated indoor and outdoor entertaining spaces that deliver the best of coastal living.