Landmark estate hits prestige market after heritage restoration

The six-bedroom, four-bathroom property, known as ‘The Knoll’ is at 14 Pymble Ave, Pymble.

The property is being marketed by Ray White Upper North Shore sales agent Rowan Lazar with a price guide of $8 million.

Cubic Property Group developer and owner Grace Zhu revived and renovated the property, matching history with modern appeal under the guidance of a heritage consultant, an architect and the skills of her team at Cubic.

Ms Zhu, who bought the property in 2023, said the Arts and Crafts Federation home was constructed of solid full brick, set on an elevated 1,684sqm block which backs onto a green reserve.

“We were immediately drawn to the home’s inherent Federation charm, solid full brick construction, and timeless architectural features,” Mz Zhu said.

“Its elevated position, well-manicured gardens, and the prestige of the location further reinforced its appeal.

“Our intention from the outset was to undertake a considered restoration. We were committed to preserving the home’s original character while enhancing its functionality for contemporary living.”

The restoration was comprehensive, encompassing upgrades to essential services such as electrical and plumbing systems, structural refinements where required, and the careful restoration of original elements, Ms Zhu said.

“Modern amenities were thoughtfully introduced to complement, rather than detract from, the home’s heritage character.

“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.

“One of the key changes was reworking the internal layout, opening it 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 a lot of care went into the finer details as well.

“For example, the ceilings were carefully restored using multiple layers of paint to match the original finish, and we thoughtfully incorporated materials such as marble, sandstone, wool carpets and brass to complement the home’s character,” Ms Zhu said.

“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.

“These are the kinds of details you might not notice straight away, but they really shape the overall feel and quality of the home.”

She said the end result is a residence that genuinely balances modern living with its historic charm, set within one of Pymble’s most sought-after streets.

“Boasting soaring 3.3 metre ceilings, the house has been meticulously revived from the charming front eclectic gates to the renovated pool and rear alfresco area,” Ms Zhu said.

“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.

“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.

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.