Has rocker Daniel Johns given up on his dream Newcastle home?
After years of touring the world as a successful muso, it looked like Johns would settle down in his steel city hometown.
The former Silverchair frontman had set his sights on a generous block a short walk to Merewether Beach
Johns has long owned a large block just 10 minutes walk from the beach, made famous by former world champion surfer Mark Richards, and knocked down the building there at the start of last year, presumably with the aim of building his dream home.
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Rocker Daniel Johns has seemingly given up on his Newcastle dream home. Picture: Getty
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He had bought the home for $1.4m way back in 2000. Depending on its opulence a brand new luxury home on the double block could have been worth as much as $10m.
However the 47-year-old then split the home mid-last year into two lots and put one of the blocks, a 967.5 sqm offering at 1/8 Charlotte St up for sale.
“For over three years, rock legend Daniel Johns searched across the country-from Tasmania’s wild coastlines to the tranquil towns of southern New South Wales-for somewhere new to call home,” the listing for that sale read.
“But despite all that exploration, nothing ever came close to this one. One place kept pulling him back. Charlotte Street, Merewether.
“Eventually, the decision became clear. His iconic Merewether home had spanned two generous blocks-but it was this irreplaceable position that couldn’t be let go.
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Johns has carved the block he has owned for decades into two lots.
It’s in a fantastic spot
It’s elevated position opens it up to great views.
It sold in August last year.
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“So, the house was demolished, and plans for his new dream home in Newcastle were set in motion. Why? Because some lifestyles, some views, and some addresses simply can’t be matched.
Johns explained he demolished the house to “unlock the site’s full potential” and offer one of the two blocks to market.
“This place has been a huge part of my life and creativity, but it’s time for something new that reflects where I’m at now and what’s next,” he said.
That lot was sold on August 6 last year. A sale price was not disclosed
However, what’s next appears to be Johns saying goodbye to the location all together.
He has now listed the next door block at 8a Charlotte St, Merewether.
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Silverchair’s Daniel Johns and Chris Joannou with You Am I frontman Tim Rogers. Picture: Tony Mott / Supplied.
It has been brought to market by Lyndall Allan and Georgia Rickey from Salt Property Newcastle.
It sits on 968 sqm and has a guide of $2,750,000 – $3,000,000.
“Tucked away in one of Merewether’s most tightly held cul-de-sacs, this is a rare opening with a story behind it,” the promotional material for the home reads.
“The original residence has made way for something new, with the land now split into just two expansive 968sqm blocks. One is already gone. This is the final chance to claim your place in a street few ever leave.
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Johns has not put the other lot up for sale.
8a Charlotte Street, Merewether. It has a guide of $2,750,000 – $3,000,000.
“Elevated and generous in scale, this is a site that calls for something bold. Sweeping coastal views roll wide across the horizon, paired with a prized northeasterly aspect that pulls in natural light from first light to late afternoon.
“Imagine a vista where the ocean is laid out in full, often dotted with passing whales and dolphins, while by evening the city skyline lights up, adding another layer to the outlook. It’s a front-row position in every sense, one that rewards thoughtful design and makes the most of a view you’ll never tire of.
Daniel Johns’ retro beachside shack
It’s rented for up to around $800 a night.
“Just 1200m from Merewether Ocean Baths and Merewether Beach, you’re close enough to make ocean swims and afternoon surfs part of your daily routine. Follow Bathers Way along the coastline or head into Glenrock State Conservation Area for mountain biking, coastal trails and those quieter, tucked-away beaches.”
According to property records, Johns still owns a Merewether home a few streets away, right on the beach that he bought for $645,000 in August 1996.
It’s a retrobeach shack available for hire on Airbnb for as much as around $800 per night
Perhaps one day that will be Johns’ forever home.
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