A meticulously restored circa 1904 Pymble estate has hit the market following a heritage restoration, blending Edwardian elegance with high-end contemporary living, set to deliver a $3m rise from its value three years ago.
Known as ‘The Knoll’, the six-bedroom, four-bathroom property at 14 Pymble Ave, Pymble was purchased in 2023 for $4.98m. Now its back on the market with a price guide of $8m.
Cubic Property Group developer and owner Grace Zhu revived and renovated the home, combining its history with modern appeal under the guidance of a heritage consultant, architect and the skills of her team at Cubic.
MORE: Justin Hemmes’ $18m secret revealed
14 Pymble Ave, Pymble is currently guiding $8m marketed by sales agent Rowan Lazar of Ray White Upper North Shore. Pictures: Supplied
The home prior to its restoration was purchased in 2023 for $4.98m
The home is set on an elevated 1,684 sqm block that backs onto a green reserve. Ms Zhu said they were immediately drawn to the home’s inherent Federation charm, solid full brick construction and timeless architectural features.
The intention from the outset was to undertake a considered restoration.
“Its elevated position, well-manicured gardens, and the prestige of the location further reinforced its appeal,” she said.
“We were committed to preserving the home’s original character while enhancing its functionality for contemporary living.”
The comprehensive restoration included upgrades to essential services such as electrical and plumbing systems, structural refinements, where required, and the careful restoration of original elements.
“Modern amenities were thoughtfully introduced to complement, rather than detract from, the home’s heritage character,” Ms Zhu said.
“We’ve gone above and beyond in many areas, including work that isn’t immediately visible but has been an integral part of the restoration.”
MORE: Stars making millions out of their Aussie side hustles
Cubic Property Group developer and owner Grace Zhu with her children
Grace Zhu, pictured with her family, revived and renovated the Pymble home
One of the key changes was reworking the internal layout that Ms Zhu said opened the space up to create a more functional, open-plan space better suited to modern family living.
“We also introduced a contemporary kitchen, generous storage throughout, and a smart home system to make everyday living more comfortable and convenient,” she said.
With soaring 3.3m ceilings, Ms Zhu said the house has been revived, from the charming front eclectic gates to the renovated pool and rear alfresco area.
“Inside, there is a marble checkerboard entry foyer – laid in Italian Bianco Carrara Classic honed marble and Nero Marquina polished marble – which sets the tone for an interior that balances heritage character with luxury appointments,” she said.
“There’s multiple restored fireplaces, and sections of original timber flooring sit alongside a designer stone-and-Miele kitchen, and a hotel-like master ensuite.”
Inside the renovated home with checkerboard marble entry
Outside the Pymble house now listed
A focus on the finer details included ceilings that have been carefully restored using multiple layers of paint to match the original finish and thoughtfully incorporating materials such as marble, sandstone, wool carpets and brass to complement the home’s character.
“Beneath the staircase window, we added a softly curved, hand-finished marble base, which pairs beautifully with the crystal chandelier above – subtle touches that bring a sense of elegance and cohesion,” Ms Zhu said.
A signature feature of the principal living area is the original fireplace set into a substantial stone wall – a focal point enhanced by newly installed floor-to-ceiling commercial grade sliders that dissolve the boundary between interior and the sweeping rear terrace overlooking the reserve and fully renovated pool.
MORE: Radiator billionaire’s new million dollar move
The home prior to restoration
Contemporary living spaces now complement the home’s federation charm
Ms Zhu said the chandeliers were newly sourced from the Czech Republic and complemented by two painstakingly hand-restored original pendants.
“Apart from the new lights, we have also restored two of the original chandeliers by carefully disassembling the lights and handwashed dirt and oxidation, but without over-polishing,” she said.
The home’s layout comprises a ground floor guest suite, a grand master with custom walk-in robe and skylight, and an optional sixth bedroom or home office.
A separate rear with ensuite, concealed sauna, character-rich basement wine cellar, and abundant parking complete the offering.
“The wine cellar is a distinctive and atmospheric inclusion, ideal for storage,” Ms Zhu said.
“A number of original features have been retained, including sections of the timber flooring, ceiling details, glazing, and external masonry work.”
A contemporary kitchen, generous storage and a smart home system was introduced to make everyday living more comfortable and convenient
Ms Zhu and her family are now embarking on a new chapter
Having completed the restoration and enjoying the home, Ms Zhu and her family are now looking to embark on a new chapter.
“We hope the next custodians will appreciate and continue to cherish this unique restored heritage property,” she said.
The home is being marketed by Ray White Upper North Shore sales agent Rowan Lazar in an expressions of interest campaign.
English (US) · 