By blending the old with the new, these homes offer a fresh take on modern design, infused with historic charm.
Across Australia, many new developments are honouring their heritage and incorporating structures long beloved by their communities into modern design.
This charming mix appeals to those who love historical beauty with today's conveniences. From grand restorations to subtle touches, these projects show a dedication to preserving history while meeting the needs of modern living.
By celebrating traditional architecture, these homes offer unique living experiences that stand out in a world of look-alike buildings.
Here are three new developments that beautifully preserve the past.
Ballamac Coogee, NSW
Located on Coogee’s northern headland, Ballamac by Central Element is mixing old and new with its boutique collection of eight homes across two buildings.
Ballamac House has been seamlessly integrated into the new development. Picture: realestate.com.au
For almost 175 years, Ballamac House has been a historic icon in Sydney’s eastern suburbs. Its meticulous restoration elegantly reimagines its illustrious spirit, reflecting Coogee’s charm, authenticity and natural beauty.
Now, the new development sits behind the restored sandstone façade of the original estate and is reimagined with heritage character and contemporary design.
There are two full-floor houses called the Ballmac Residences and six apartments three-bedroom apartments – the Ocean Residences.
The houses feature high ceilings, curved entryways to amplify their grandeur, meanwhile a restored fireplace and plasterwork nod to the area’s history.
Set closer to the water’s edge, the apartments feature floor-to-ceiling glass doors with stunning views from Wedding Cake Island to the horizon and open-plan interiors connect seamlessly to ocean-facing balconies.
Brougham Gardens, South Australia
In North Adelaide, Brougham Gardens offers new apartments framed by two significant buildings from the community’s past.
Brougham Gardens features two heritage-listed houses. Picture: realestate.com.au
The Moto Projects development features a collection of 10 apartments and two restored heritage residences, just a few minutes’ walk from protected parklands.
State listed Ebenezer Chapel and local heritage listed Victorian villa have been crafted into two standalone homes, and serve as the centrepiece of the design according to architects Stallard Meek Flightpath Architects.
The restored Ebenezer Chapel features multiple living spaces, a grand entry, and marble accents and herringbone timber flooring. The thoughtfully designed floor plan offers flexibility with carpeted bedrooms, a walk-in pantry and extensive storage.
Meanwhile the local listed heritage home offers four bedrooms, three bathrooms plus a powder room.
A lift and extensive storage ensure convenience, while multiple living areas provide flexibility for modern family living.
The new apartments are staggered in the background to reduce visual impact, while residents can enjoy views of the Adelaide Hills, city skyline, and St Peter’s Cathedral.
Each residence has open plan living with stylish stone features, timber floors and lush private terraces.
Fernhurst, Victoria
Nestled in Melbourne’s inner-city suburb of Kew is Fernhurst, a collection of seventeen apartments and three houses – one being a restored heritage house.
One heritage house sits within ANGLE's Fernhurst development. Picture: realestate.com.au
ANGLE’s development is positioned on a leafy green side street in Studley Park and conveniently located close to Kew Junction.
According to the developer, due to zoning and heritage restrictions, this is one of the last remaining apartment development sites in this precinct.
The heritage house, 15 Fernhurst Grove, is a restored and expanded four-bedroom, four-and-a-half home with a total area of 746sqm.
The ground floor opens up to a spacious north-facing courtyard, providing a private garden oasis complete with an outdoor kitchenette and designated entertaining area, perfect for year-round enjoyment.
Inside, high ceilings and an open-plan living area feature a kitchen equipped with premium Gaggenau appliances and Brodware tapware, complemented by a scullery ideal for effortless entertaining.
The exterior showcases a terracotta façade, blending beautifully with the rich brickwork and highlighted by deep colours.
Are you interested in off-the-plan properties? Check out our New Homes section.
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