Behind this unassuming industrial facade is something truly spectacular

January Jones, View Living Senior Reporter
view.com.au
The property was completely redesigned by MCK Architects in 2018. Pic: BresicWhitney.
The property was completely redesigned by MCK Architects in 2018. Pic: BresicWhitney. Credit: View

Behind the unassuming industrial facade of 42-44 Pine Street is a property filled with surprises.

Completely overhauled and redesigned by award-winning Sydney studio MCK Architects in 2018, 'The Pigeon Shed' is a warehouse-cum-contemporary home in the heart of Chippendale.

The property was purchased for $3.1 million in 2012 by creative director Beau Neilson, daughter and heiress to billionaire Judith Neilson and Kerr Neilson.

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Currently listed for sale with BresicWhitney East, director Shannan Whitney says the property is a "rare offering" for the Sydney property market.

Not Supplied
Not Supplied Credit: View

"It's very rare to see a building of this category come to the market," he says. "We don't see many large scale, high quality warehouse residences offered to the Sydney market."

Referred to in the listing as a "marriage of post-industrial character and quiet architectural prowess", the home is on the market in an expression of interest campaign with a price guide of $19 million.

"The warehouse building itself is an impressive example of early century warehousing in Sydney," Whitney says. "It's a very beautiful building in its own right, and they've maintained, celebrated and preserved much of what was original back then.

"The scale, voids and spatial outcomes should be applauded."

The total internal footprint is 735-square-metres. Pic: BresicWhitney.
The total internal footprint is 735-square-metres. Pic: BresicWhitney. Credit: View

Set over three levels, the commanding former soap factory was built in 1914 and claims three street frontages.

The total internal footprint is 735-square-metres with level one featuring off-street parking, one bedroom, study and living zone. Ideal as a private suite for guests or intergenerational living.

A swimming pool provides a dramatic backdrop to the kitchen, living and dining area. Pic: BresicWhitney.
A swimming pool provides a dramatic backdrop to the kitchen, living and dining area. Pic: BresicWhitney. Credit: View

The second floor encompasses a spacious open-plan kitchen, dining and family area, as well as two terraces.

The upper level features a master bedroom with walk-in-robe, ensuite and private terrace, two additional bedrooms, each with ensuites, and another large terrace.

The glass-fronted pool is open-air. Pic: BresicWhitney.
The glass-fronted pool is open-air. Pic: BresicWhitney. Credit: View

Upon entry into the home, a three-level high void creates a striking impression and showcases the copper-clad internal lift that services each floor.

Perhaps one of the most impressive and surprising features is the indoor/outdoor swimming pool overlooking the kitchen and dining area.

The former soap factory was built in 1914. Pic: BresicWhitney.
The former soap factory was built in 1914. Pic: BresicWhitney. Credit: View

Perfect for buyers keen on hosting poolside soirees, the open-air pool is glass-fronted and a striking statement piece in the open-plan area.

Another special element is a wall of built-in bookshelves that swivel open to reveal a hidden guest bedroom - the stuff of childhood dreams.

Built-in bookshelves swivel open to reveal a hidden guest bedroom. Pic: BresicWhitney.
Built-in bookshelves swivel open to reveal a hidden guest bedroom. Pic: BresicWhitney. Credit: View

Originally designed to accommodate a large art collection, gallery spaces were woven into the renovation, as was room for a home office.

Created with sustainability in mind, the property includes efficient solar power, hydronic heating and cooling.

Currently listed for sale with BresicWhitney East, the property has a $19 million price guide/ Pic: BresicWhitney.
Currently listed for sale with BresicWhitney East, the property has a $19 million price guide/ Pic: BresicWhitney. Credit: View

42-44 Pine Street, Chippendale is currently listed for sale by Shannan Whitney and Melinda Antella from BresicWhitney East. The price guide is $19 million.

Find home loan tools, tricks and advice
Find home loan tools, tricks and advice Credit: View

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