Neutral Bay treasure returns to market with $2m price drop

An IT entrepreneur’s grand Neutral Bay estate that’s had a range of famous owners has returned to the market with a $2m discount.

70 Shellcove Rd, Neutral Bay was on the market with a $12m guide last year. Now it has hopes of $10m.

Neutral Bay’s Cossington is in a league of its own, artfully blending Queen Anne Federation elegance with a sleek contemporary renovation by Jorge Hrdina Architects.

Steeped in history, this 1429sq m estate at 70 Shellcove Rd was built around 1888 for the celebrated artist Grace Cossington Smith with other famous owners including members of the Hooker clan (of the eponymous real estate agency) and the Thomas family who owned the Oaks Hotel.

After an appearance on the market late last year sporting a $12m price guide, the historic home is now newly listed via Geoff Smith and Ross Nesdale of Ray White Lower North Shore with amended $10m expectations.

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The home is built on a 1429sqm block and there’s a resort-style pool.

It’s had a sleek contemporary renovation by Jorge Hrdina Architects.

Records show the IT entrepreneur Damian Huon bought the five-bedroom house in 2019 for $8.1m.

Beyond the classic sandstone facade, the meticulously restored and updated residence has a 363sq m internal footprint and a host of period features from high 14-foot ceilings and stained-glass windows to a grand foyer and reception room.

Formal living and entertaining spaces surround a central gallery, complete with wood-burning fireplaces, connected via French doors to a wraparound veranda.

The wraparound balcony is part of the appeal.

Asian influences.

Traditional gardens feature a fusion of English-inspired greenery with Asian influences beside a resort-style pool.

A long stone island bench sits centre stage in a kitchen with European appliances including two Miele ovens, induction and gas cooktops, as well as two dishwashers and integrated fridges.

The two-storey modern addition connects to the original wing via a long courtyard framed by walls of glass sliding doors.

Formal living and dining.

A vast family room.

It has a vast family room with yet another fireplace.

Behind this, the main bedroom has a walk-in wardrobe plus ensuite with dual shower heads and a freestanding tub. Upstairs is a family bathroom and three bedrooms, each with built-ins and one with an ensuite.

Additional features include a study or fifth bedroom, a powder room, a large laundry with external access, a security system, automatic gates and a double lock-up garage with extra gated driveway parking.

Originally published as Neutral Bay treasure returns to market with $2m price drop