This Luxurious Coastal House in Sydney Once Belonged to Australian Prime Minister Bob Hawke
The property is located in one of Sydney’s most sought-after neighbourhoods, the luxurious suburb of Northbridge, on a private inlet with access to views of the sparkling bay water. An unexpected phone call brought interior designer Nina Maya (owner of the eponymous Nina Maya Interiors) her dream assignment: the interior of the former home of Australian politician and Prime Minister Bob Hawke and his wife, writer Blanche D’Alpuget, was up for sale and in need of a complete transformation. Dream House in Sydney
This is a dream assignment not only because of the former residents. The building is situated in one of Sydney’s most coveted neighbourhoods, the luxurious suburb of Northbridge, on a private inlet with access to views of the sparkling bay water.
Out of respect for the heritage, the exterior has remained completely intact. The interior, however, is a different story. The new residents fantasised about a ‘Nina Maya look’ as they had seen in magazines: creamy white interiors, an enchanting play of lines, and plenty of luxury. And when you give Nina Maya such an assignment, you get exactly that.
Charred and European oak harmoniously combine with brass and Italian marble. The graphic staircase, a striking element in the house, gives the home airiness and space, making the coastal house more connected to its natural surroundings.
To fit into the surroundings, necessary adjustments were made. The scale of the house was restored, the pool was relocated, walls were removed, ceilings were raised, the staircase was made floating, and every floor was fitted with full glazing. For cohesion, many of the furniture pieces were custom-made by Nina Maya’s team in collaboration with Atelier Furniture, from the sofa and coffee table to the bed.
The result is a house where luxury is entirely focused on the sparkling water, the boats, and the lush greenery. This is how you want to live. If it were possible.
