Acclaimed architecture practice, SJB has unveiled its vision for the $300 million Putney Wharf Residences project to be delivered as a premium lifestyle wharf precinct incorporating the restoration of the historic Halvorsen Boatshed on the harbour at Putney in Sydney’s northwest, 14km from the CBD.
Boasting 300 metres of absolute waterfront, Putney Wharf Residences will feature 67 luxury apartments and townhouses, along with sophisticated waterfront dining, retail spaces and a 36-berth marina.
Designed in close collaboration with Heritage Consultants, Curio Projects, landscape architects, Dangar Barin Smith, Putney Wharf Residences located at 20 Waterview Street along Putney’s spectacular harbourfront, will offer three residential components:
- Halvorsen’s Apartments. A full restoration of the heritage-listed Halvorsen’s Boatshed, comprising 19 oversized apartments consisting of 17 three-bedroom apartments and two, four-bedroom residences.
- Waterview Terraces. Located on Waterview Street comprising 18 three-storey, four-bedroom terraces.
- The Residences at Putney Wharf. Consisting of two new-build three-storey apartment buildings, offering 30 apartments; a mix of two-bedrooms and three-bedroom.
The project will offer a mix of three-storey townhouses and apartments comprising heritage components including original timber beams and other preserved materials, creating stunning character-rich interiors with a nod to the boating history of the site.
Developed in joint venture between leading property developers, Abadeen Group and PERIFA along with their partners Phoenix Property Investors and Mitsubishi Estate Asia Putney Wharf Residences is a landmark development that combines modern luxury with rich history, bringing an unparalleled living experience to Sydney’s waterfront.
SJB Director Adam Haddow describes the design intent and architectural vision for the project:
The iconic Halvorsen’s boatshed located at 20 Waterview Street in Putney is poised for a thoughtful revitalization, aiming to create a vibrant residential space that fosters community and connectivity. Located on the foreshore of Parramatta River, the project site offers panoramic harbour views toward Rhodes, including Ryde Bridge to the northwest.
With a rich First Nations cultural heritage, the redevelopment plan for this waterfront site is respectful of its historical significance. Cultural Heritage Specialists, Bila Group, work to ensure the development respectfully acknowledges the thriving communities that once inhabited the foreshore.
Central to this plan is the restoration of the historic Halvorsen’s boatshed, which will be repurposed into a waterfront dining and commercial precinct. Working closely with Heritage consultants Curio Projects, this new precinct will become a focal point for social gatherings, offering a variety of dining and shopping experiences. Its generous restoration will open the building to access, allowing the public to experience the building practices of the time.
Luxury new build apartments and townhouses
In addition to the commercial revitalisation, the project will introduce a number of well-appointed apartments and terraces, strategically designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. The development includes the construction of two three-storey residential buildings, featuring a range of two, and three-bedroom apartments and three townhouses. These residences will provide modern, comfortable living spaces while maintaining the area’s charm and character.
Warm, homely interiors with water views
Across all residential offerings, the material palette is defined by two distinct colour schemes with neutral toned stones, complemented by earthy tones that reflect the natural surroundings. The interiors feature painted timber veneers with tactile finishes for joinery, timber floors in living areas, and natural wool carpets in bedrooms, creating warm, homely, sophisticated spaces.
Halvorsen’s Boatshed Apartments
The Shed is a high-end offering at Putney Waterfront, created as a residential village with apartments encircling an enclosed light-filled green courtyard with access to retail and hospitality. Our design approach is rooted in the rich history of the building. The transformation celebrates its heritage while establishing the new development as a respectful modern architectural approach. The proposal strips back the existing building fabric to the authentic heritage elements, specifically that of the 1941 Halvorsen’s boatshed, revealing beautiful timber trusses and columns.
The expansive three and four-bedroom apartments have been designed to maximise harbour views with full-height glazing that opens onto generous balconies. All apartments are designed around the original heritage fabric with exposed heritage columns. The level one apartments have high ceilings which highlight the exposed original timber trusses. The distinction between private and public living spaces is clear, with light, open living areas and secluded bedrooms separated by corridors. Large entry vestibules mark the beginning of the journey throughout the home, and as such, boasts integrated cloak joinery as well as opportunities for artworks and generous accommodation for entry furniture – to set down keys and provide storage opportunities.
Key features include sculptural stone kitchen islands framed by neat, tailored joinery, with mirrored backsplashes that reflect harbour views. The kitchens are further enhanced by large butlers pantries providing ample storage. Main bedrooms boast expansive walk-in robes, while living rooms feature large fireplaces with stone hearths and TV joinery. Ensuite bathrooms are adorned with generous-sized baths, delicate feature stone double vanities, and stone finishes to floors and walls.
Waterview Terraces
The north-facing terraces at Putney Waterfront embody elegant simplicity, surrounded by leafy green canopies. Each individual terrace house is thoughtfully designed with specific details, such as a setback entryway that emphasises a sense of arrival. This entry sequence, in conjunction with the approach to the front yards, is enhanced by strategically placed landscaping elements. The design considers the need for privacy for both new and current residents, achieved by setting the houses back from the street while remaining in harmony with the neighbouring scale.
These 4-bedroom, 3-4 storey terraces offer a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor living spaces on the ground floor, promoting a natural flow between the interior and exterior environments. The separation between bedrooms and public living spaces is clearly defined across the levels, ensuring both privacy and functionality.
The Residences at Putney Wharf
The apartments offer a treetop living experience with generous harbour views. Available in two- and three-bedroom configurations, these apartments feature centralised open living areas that lead onto large corner balconies, allowing for an abundance of natural light and panoramic vistas.
Three-bedroom apartments include double vanities and baths, enhancing the sense of luxury. The interiors are light and bright, with kitchens showcasing elegant islands with soft curves, and stone backsplashes and surrounds in the cooking zones, creating a refined yet inviting atmosphere.
Putney Waterfront is a testament to thoughtful integration of heritage elements with contemporary design, offering residents a unique living experience that celebrates its harbourside location. From the high-end Shed apartments to the elegant Terraces and Residential apartments, each space is meticulously crafted to provide comfort, privacy, and views, all within a cohesive and harmonious design.
Heritage Consultant of Curio Projects, Natalie Vinton describes the fascinating history of the site:
“I don’t think you get a site with more of a mixed, incredible history. It really helps us understand layers of where we’ve come from and how much we’ve evolved and important parts of our history where things could have changed.
“The Wallumedegal clan first occupied the inner north of Sydney, including Sydney Cove, where the first fleet arrived with Governor Arthur Phillip in 1788.
“On board was convict James Squire, who was later pardoned and began growing his own hops to brew beer. He opened the Malting Shovel Inn at Eastern Fames, now known as Putney, and it was to become an important landmark, Vinton says.
“His site is actually where beer was first commercially made and had its first commercial brewing licence, so that’s pretty incredible.”
“Squire befriended Woollarawarre Bennelong, one of Australia’s most famous Aboriginal figures, known for his role as interpreter for Governor Arthur Phillip.
“In the 1830s, the Inn closed, and the land was divided into farming lots. A century later, it was bought by Norwegian boat builder, Lars Halvorsen.”
During World War II, Halvorsen’s shipyards played a pivotal role in supporting Australia’s war effort. They built over 250 vessels for the Royal Australian Navy, including patrol boats, minesweepers, and rescue launches, demonstrating their expertise and versatility.
Following the war, the Halvorsen business expanded into the luxury yacht market. They crafted a range of cruisers and motor yachts that gained popularity both in Australia and internationally, solidifying their reputation for quality and elegance.
Halvorsen-built yachts achieved significant success in competitive sailing. Their boats won numerous races, including the prestigious Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, showcasing their superior design and performance.
The Halvorsen name remains a symbol of quality and craftsmanship in boat building. Their boats are considered classics, highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.
This landmark venture marks the beginning of a long-term collaboration between Abadeen and PERIFA aimed at transforming urban landscapes. Putney Wharf Residences stands as a testament to the shared vision of creating vibrant, community-centric spaces that cater to the evolving needs of modern living.
With development approval now received, construction is due to commence imminently with the project expected to be completed by 2027.
Registrations of Interest are now open with apartments and townhouses launching to market on Saturday 26 October. For further information, please visit www.putneywharf.com.au or call CBRE Residential Projects on 1800 572 020.
