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  • Author

    Peter Wood

  • Photography

    James Green

Tucked into a private, leafy rise in North Sydney, a quietly radical residential project has taken shape over nearly a decade. 

Comprising four architect-designed homes, the development is the culmination of a long-held vision, brought to life through the unconventional and deeply considered approach of the late architect Geoff Malone.

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Originally occupied by two detached houses, the site was cleared to allow for a more ambitious proposition: a boutique offering that prioritises architectural integrity, sustainability and spatial generosity over density. The result is a development that feels both resolutely inner-city and distinctly removed - sheltered by lush surrounds, yet moments from the CBD and transport connections that define Lower North Shore living. 

The project’s extended gestation speaks to the commitment behind it. Development approval was secured in 2017, followed by years of refinement as the design was reworked through occupation certificate stages in 2021. Construction continued with careful adherence to the original intent, culminating in its 2024 completion - a labour of love and a testament to the skill of the designer and expertise of the builder. 

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Reflecting on the ambition behind the scheme, project manager Terry Pride says the final design stands out from typical inner-city residential developments. “For me, the experience within these homes feels elevated above the rest because of their generous indoor/outdoor connections and lush surrounds,” he says.

Two of the homes each have three separate outdoor terraces, whilst townhouse four possesses two terraces and direct pool access. Largest out of the four homes - townhouse six, boasts an impressive 100 square metres of garden surrounds. 

Much consideration went into ensuring liveability with full insulation, air-conditioning, and BASIX compliant glazing - essential for meeting the 7-star Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS).

The architectural language of Malone is immediately clear. Curves dominate the project, not as decorative gestures, but as a unifying logic that involves every aspect of the project. Circular motifs define rooms, staircases and skylights; even the communal swimming pool adopts the same curved geometry with an effect that’s immersive, consistent and cohesive.

Sustainability remained central to Malone’s thinking. Known for his inventive ideas, he created the Margaret Street homes utilizing the terrain to expand the outlook from living areas and capture the verdant views.

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While each dwelling is distinct, the four homes can be understood as sculpture. Together, they form a grouping defined by controlled forms, layered materiality and an emphasis on privacy. Mature landscaping softens the architecture, while elevated positioning delivers green outlooks and a sense of retreat, unusual for such a central location.

A shared, private, Euro-style swimming pool and sundeck anchor the development, reinforcing the sense of considered communal living without compromising the autonomy of each residence. With ferry, bus, Metro and train links within walking distance - and Neutral Bay just beyond - seclusion is balanced with exceptional connectivity.

Number six offers a striking composition; dramatic industrial elements sit alongside sandstone features, creating interiors rich in texture and depth. Exposed stone walls, a statement fireplace and a sweeping curved staircase create a powerful sense of welcome, while expansive glazing and high ceilings draw light deep into the home.

Across multiple levels, lush gardens frame every outlook, reinforcing privacy and serenity. The residence offers three bedrooms plus a flexible fourth space suited to a study or retreat, alongside a designer kitchen featuring Swiss-made Franke appliances, a walk-in butler’s pantry and Italian-imported Grigio Perla stone benchtops. Two parking spaces on title and a gated private entrance complete a home that feels both expansive and discreet.

View the listing: 6/2-6 Margaret Street, North Sydney

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The first of four homes, 2A, is defined by its autonomy. With a private street-level entrance and original gated access, it reads as a standalone residence rather than an apartment. Curved forms continue throughout, softened by natural stone finishes and leafy outlooks, while three separate outdoor spaces allow living to expand fluidly into the landscape.

An internal lift connects the living spaces directly to secure parking, giving the home a rare sense of ease and long-term flexibility. Two large bedrooms, each with a luxury private ensuite, are complemented by a generous living and dining zone, a guest powder room and seamless indoor–outdoor access to multiple courtyards.

View the listing: 2A / 2-6 Margaret Street North Sydney

Creating a future reference point, the result is not simply four new homes, but a considered architectural triumph shaped by intense refinement and attention to detail. 

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