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_Inner-city, loft-style apartments attract significant interest from owner-occupiers

Repurposed warehouses are becoming increasingly popular as people are seeking contemporary homes with the convenience and amenity of urban living.
November 12, 2018

A two-bedroom, two-bathroom loft-style apartment in the vibrant inner-city precinct of Pyrmont has been listed for sale through Knight Frank’s Deborah Cullen and Richard Sholl. It comes at a time when inner-city living is becoming increasingly popular, particularly historic buildings that have been repurposed into lofts. 

The 108 square metre property is situated at 510/380 Harris Street, in what is now known as M Central. Originally built in 1882 by R. Goldsbrough & Co, the property first became a wool store in 1906 following the construction of the Pitt, Son & Badgery Building. Stunningly converted in 2005, M Central boasts enhanced period features, modern luxurious finishes and access to the myriad of amenities Pyrmont has to offer. 

According to Richard Sholl, Sales Executive, Prestige Residential Sales, apartment 510 embodies elegance, urban style and convenience, showcasing light-filled rooms and stylish interiors. ''Architecturally designed, the combined living and dining areas flow effortlessly from the kitchen and receive an abundance of natural light. The two overly large bedrooms both feature built-in wardrobes, with the second bedroom designed to flow onto the exquisite outdoor terrace – perfect for entertaining or relaxing with family and friends.”

Image: Living room at Harris Street, Pyrmont

Apartment 510 has two car spaces in the building, providing the owner with the convenience of parking in an inner-city location within walking distance to the CBD. Pet friendly; M Central’s superb amenities include a 3,000 square metre rooftop with a garden, barbeque area and walkways, along with a community room available for resident use. 

Image: Roof top garden at Harris Street, Pyrmont

"The home is expected to draw significant interest from double income owner-occupiers as there has been a shift towards inner-city loft-style living", said Mr Sholl.

"The urban location offers residents access to the variety of amenities within close proximity to the CBD, while the smaller nature of the development provides the opportunity to be a part of a community which isn’t typically associated with inner-city living."

According to Richard Klein, Partner, Head of Project Marketing, NSW repurposed warehouses and historic buildings tend to be more boutique residential developments, offering only a small number of apartments. “Architects such as SJB and BKH are able to put their own spin on the heritage building, taking advantage of the original features warehouses are renowned for, including high ceilings, large floorplates and soaring windows. They are able to marry the heritage of the property with contemporary interiors, creating a building that is sympathetic to history but matches the fabric of the neighbourhood. The rise of urban loft living has been occurring around the world for some time, particularly in Manhattan’s SoHo, London’s Shoreditch and Paris’ Montmartre. Shoreditch is similar to Sydney’s Surry Hills, where the majority of loft conversions have stemmed from fashion warehouses that are no longer in use." 

“In Surry Hills, No. 1 Lacey, the Griffiths Tea Building and Cleveland & Co have set the benchmark for repurposed warehouses. As the trend becomes increasingly popular, we expect more conversions across inner-locations such as Darling Harbour, Darlinghurst and Waterloo,” concluded Mr Klein.