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K-Pop Stars, Business Elite and Foreign Dignitaries Have Been Flocking to Korea’s Hannam-dong. Here’s Why.

Many are familiar with Seoul’s Gangnam district, an affluent urban neighborhood best known for its competitive academies, plastic surgery clinics and Psy’s 2012 hit “Gangnam Style” that set off the international wave of Korean cultural relevance.

But when it comes to the priciest real estate in South Korea’s capital, Gangnam is being upstaged by Hannam-dong, a historically prestigious oasis across the Han River, preferred by K-pop stars, foreign dignitaries and Korea’s political and business elite.

The centrally located neighborhood within the Yongsan-gu district is home to private stately villas, international embassies and some of the priciest developments in Seoul. That includes Hannam the Hill—the sprawling complex where the BTS members lived together during the height of their international fame—Paarc Hannam and Nine One Hannam.

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The neighborhood is named for its distinct location, nestled between the Han River and Nam mountain—a particularly auspicious site according to Feng Shui—and one that offers sweeping river views and respite from the bustle of central Seoul. It was therefore a favorite among Korean nobility during and after the Joseon period. Following the Japanese occupation in the first half of the 20th century, the Japanese military set up their official residences there, which were occupied by the U.S. military after Japan’s defeat. Today, that area is known as UN Village, a gated complex of expensive and coveted villas.

Hannam is therefore a center for expats and diplomats, and is close to foreign embassies and international schools, as well as a vibrant cultural life, with art galleries, upscale shopping and fine dining.

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“Hannam-dong’s luxury market attracts buyers who value lifestyle elements such as privacy, security, cultural surroundings, and natural environment, as well as the investment potential of the property,” said Meiling Quek of Sotheby’s International Realty Korea via email.

Prices

Prices in Hannam-dong have skyrocketed since 2020 and reached new heights in 2024, according to Sotheby’s. A standard 2,500-square-foot unit at luxury developments such as UN Village or Hannam the Hill can go for KRW8 billion (US$5.5 million) to KRW10 billion (US$6.9 million), while standalone homes range from KRW2 billion to KRW5 billion, per Sotheby’s.

The most expensive units can go for much more, however. The priciest listing in Hannam the Hill is currently asking just over KRW20 billion ($14.3 million), slightly more than the record price set last year at Nine One Hannam, according to the Korea Times. That KRW20 billion sale price was double what it sold for in October 2021, less than three years earlier. Similarly, Korean trot singer Jang Yoon-jeong sold an 800-square-foot apartment for KRW12 billion in 2024, more than double the KRW5 billion she paid in 2021, per the Korea Times.

Historically, Hannam has had few high-rises and a small rental market, but that’s beginning to change. “The increasing presence of expatriates and diplomats has fueled a more active rental market, making Hannam-dong a highly desirable area for international residents,” according to Sotheby’s.

Notable Residents

Hannam attracts many celebrities, business moguls and diplomats, but the best known residents are likely its international K-pop stars, including Blackpink’s Jennie, SHINEE’s Key and EXO’s Baekhyun, as well as K-drama actor Lee Seung Gi and rapper G-Dragon. That’s on top of the fact that the seven-member boy band BTS was based there previously, and several BTS members still own homes there, including Suga and Jimin.

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Additionally, Korea’s impeached president Yoon Suk Yeol took up residence in Hannam instead of the Blue House, the official presidential office and residence, when he took office in 2022. In early January, the complex was surrounded by protesters and soldiers sent to arrest Yoon for his imposition of martial law in December, while the president remained confined inside for several days, hoping to hold out against the orders.

Lifestyle and Amenities

Celebrities are attracted to Hannam because of the privacy and security offered in the hills around Namsan Park, as well as access to the park and its views, according to Quek.

“Hannam seamlessly combines the tranquility of a secluded retreat with the vibrant energy of the city center, creating a sanctuary for individuals seeking both peacefulness and a cosmopolitan lifestyle at their doorstep,” she said.

The neighborhood is also a cultural destination that attracts young Seoulites, tourists and expats, with its high-end shops, gourmet dining, art venues and celebrity hotspots. Attractions include the Leeum Samsung Museum of Art, Namsan Park—one of the largest parks in Seoul with views from the peak of Nam mountain—and Comme de Garçon’s first store in South Korea, located at the border of Hannam and Itaewon, another neighborhood popular with tourists and foreigners.

One key benefit in Hannam is its proximity to international schools like Yongsan International School of Seoul and BIK Hannam. “[While] Gangnam boasts the country’s top academic districts, making it an ideal place for child education, Hannam-dong is close to international schools, making it popular among foreign families,” according to  Sotheby’s.

Outlook

Seoul, in general, has seen its luxury prices rise drastically in the last few years. In fact, Seoul topped Knight Frank’s list of 100 global cities for price growth in 2024, with luxury properties up 18.6% over the course of the year, according to the Wealth Report released Wednesday. Prices are expected to continue to rise 60% over the next five years, per the report.

Hannam-dong is definitely among the neighborhoods fueling this growth, fueled by a wave of luxury development as well as its increasing appeal to international residents, according to Sotheby’s.

“The real estate in Hannam-dong, with its stable profitability, is regarded as a promising long-term investment,”  Quek said. “Although the rapid price increases of recent years have slightly moderated, the upward trend continues.”

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Sydney’s 10 Best Fine Dining Restaurants in the CBD

Sydney’s dining scene is more exciting than ever, with a mix of world-class chefs, inventive menus, and breathtaking locations. Whether you’re after a multi-course tasting experience or a sleek spot for a power lunch, these 10 restaurants define the best of Sydney’s CBD.

1. Quay – Modern Australian

📍 Overseas Passenger Terminal, The Rocks
A Sydney institution, Quay continues to set the benchmark for fine dining with its innovative tasting menus, stunning harbour views, and Peter Gilmore’s signature creations, such as the White Coral dessert.

2. Oncore by Clare Smyth – Contemporary European

📍 Crown Sydney, Barangaroo
The first Australian outpost of three-Michelin-starred Clare Smyth, Oncore delivers refined yet approachable dishes with an emphasis on sustainability, all set against the backdrop of Sydney Harbour.

3. Bennelong – Modern Australian

📍 Sydney Opera House, Circular Quay
Housed in the iconic Opera House, Bennelong offers a sophisticated take on Australian cuisine. Its menu highlights the best local produce in an architecturally stunning setting.

4. Hubert – French Bistro

📍 15 Bligh Street, Sydney
A subterranean slice of Paris in the heart of the CBD, Hubert charms with candlelit tables, a lively jazz soundtrack, and decadent French classics like duck à l’orange and steak frites.

5. Aria – Modern Australian

📍 1 Macquarie Street, Circular Quay
With Matt Moran at the helm, Aria is a longtime favourite for pre-theatre dining and special occasions, serving elegant, seasonal dishes with spectacular views of the Harbour Bridge.

6. A’Mare – Italian Fine Dining

📍 Crown Sydney, Barangaroo
For old-school Italian glamour, A’Mare is the place to be. Expect tableside mozzarella service, hand-rolled pasta, and a lavish setting reminiscent of an Italian grand hotel.

7. Firedoor – Woodfire Cooking

📍 23-33 Mary Street, Surry Hills (CBD fringe)
Chef and owner Lennox Hastie’s Firedoor is a must-visit for meat lovers. Here, everything—yes, everything—is cooked over fire, from aged rib-eye steaks to ember-roasted vegetables.

8. Rockpool Bar & Grill – Classic Steakhouse

📍 66 Hunter Street, Sydney
A high-end power dining staple, Rockpool serves some of the country’s best dry-aged steaks, impeccable seafood, and a deep wine list curated for connoisseurs.

9. Kiln – Contemporary Australian

📍 Ace Hotel, 47 Wentworth Avenue, Sydney
One of Sydney’s most talked-about newer openings, Kiln blends inventive Aussie flavours with a relaxed rooftop atmosphere. It offers standout dishes like fermented potato bread and charcoal-roasted seafood.

10. Shell House Dining Room & Terrace – European-Inspired Brasserie

📍 37 Margaret Street, Sydney
With its grand heritage interiors and sun-drenched rooftop terrace, Shell House offers a polished yet lively dining experience. The menu is focused on fresh, coastal flavours.

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Can Private Skiing Lure Wealthy Home Buyers to the Top of a Remote Mountain?

EDEN, UTAH—​​ Reed Hastings , the billionaire co-founder of Netflix , is wagering that he can persuade 650 homeowners to join him in living a rugged-yet-refined lifestyle at roughly 9,000 feet in northern Utah.

Hastings bought a controlling interest in Powder Mountain, a ski area with about 8,000 skiable acres, 18 months ago. He’s aiming to turn around the area’s fortunes with the allure of a private ski club, where the key to membership is owning property.

“I had zero thoughts of getting involved in real estate,” Hastings said in a February interview in the living area of his approximately 5,000-square-foot, five-bedroom mountain house. He started building in 2019 and finished in 2021 for about $1,000 per square foot. Nestled on a steep lot, its curved roof accommodates the wind, and the minimalist wood interior allows sweeping views to take center stage. “If I didn’t live here, this project would be ‘no way’ just as an investment,” he says. “I’d rather invest in A.I.”

“But,” he says, “I love this place, and I could afford it and the timing was right.”

The private ski community, called Powder Haven, sits atop Powder Mountain in the Wasatch Mountain Range, about 60 miles north of Salt Lake City. Think private golf club, but swap out the 18-hole golf course for a ski area with no lift lines and plenty of untouched snow. Lots start at around $2 million, and annual membership dues are around $25,000, plus an initiation fee.

Hastings’s vision for Powder Haven caters to a high-end outdoors subculture that is perhaps best described as backcountry lite. People who belong to this tribe crave the solitude of the untamed wild, yet also enjoy the camaraderie of adventure companions. They revel in the challenge of outdoor pursuits, but want inconspicuous creature comforts like designer wood-burning stoves and heated bathrooms floors. And they are willing to pay for a one-of-a-kind experience.

Hastings bought a controlling interest in the mountain for an undisclosed sum in September 2023, eight months after stepping down as co-chief executive from streaming giant Netflix. Currently, Powder Haven has 44 built houses, 24 houses under construction, 14 homes in architectural review and 80 sold but unbuilt lots.

With the investment, Hastings took on $100 million in debt from the prior owners and a turnaround project. His plan involves making more than one-third of Powder Mountain’s terrain available only to existing and future Powder Haven homeowners, with the remainder open to the public. Because infrastructure costs are shared across private and public spaces, membership fees will help support both sides, Hastings says.

In total, Powder Mountain has approximately 4,200 acres of lift-serviced skiing, which includes everything from groomers to tree skiing to advanced technical terrain, and about 3,800 acres of backcountry terrain. Its ambience is unfrilly.

Powder Mountain’s previous leadership—helmed by the millennial founders of Summit Series, which hosts events for entrepreneurs, techies and creatives—had a 2016 plan to transform the mountain with 500 houses, plus hotels, restaurants, shops and event centers. The project had quirky stipulations, like guidelines for keeping lot sizes and house square footage purposefully small.

Before Hastings took over, the ski area—one of the largest in the U.S. by acreage—had only six lifts and three lodges from the ’70s and ’80s that were feeling their age. Six residential neighborhoods were in various stages of development, with less than 10% of the proposed units built. No hotels, restaurants or shops materialized. A small yurt-style lodge for residents had been built. The overall effect, still today, is a rudimentary network of roads, lodges and houses.

“It was losing money, and real estate was not selling—a classic failed development,” says Hastings, 64. He is worth $6.74 billion, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index. “You have to have a lot of imagination, because what you see are half-built homes and that kind of thing.”

Almost all U.S. ski areas are like a pyramid. Their base, at the bottom of a hill or mountain, has parking, a lodge and, at bigger ski areas, a town. You take a lift up to then ski down.

Powder Mountain, however, which opened in 1972 on the site of an early 20th century sheep farm, is an inverted pyramid. The ski area’s main hub is more or less at the top of the mountain. Snowsports enthusiasts park at the top and take their first run by dropping into a valley.

Getting to and from the ski area requires driving a roughly 5-mile road that is steep, curvy and, in snow, slippery. Going 1 mph down the mountain after a dusting of snow, my SUV, equipped with snow tires, started slipping around a curve. Had someone not appeared out of thin air to push it, the vehicle would have ended up in a ditch. The closest boutique hotel and grocery store are 7 miles south in the main hub of Eden, a community with a population of about 900.

The unique locale with a single road in has been a challenge for developers, says Alex Zhang, Powder’s chief creative officer. “A lot of them have been unpleasantly surprised by how much capital it takes and how labor-intensive it is to build at the top of a mountain,” he says.

In addition to being difficult to access, up here the wind can feel unpleasantly biting with nothing to block it, and snow averages more than 360 inches annually. But harsh conditions bring out people’s primal urge to know their neighbors, and the tightknit bunch that already lives here is at-the-ready to help with frozen pipes or pantry supplies (also, Instacart delivers).

Bryan Meehan , 56, the former chief executive of Blue Bottle Coffee who runs a Relais & Châteaux hotel in Ireland, completed building a 2,000-square-foot, four-bedroom vacation home on Powder Mountain in 2018. Meehan says what he, his wife and their three 20-something daughters appreciate most is how the high-alpine environment allows them to rise above their day-to-day lives. “It is the only place where we are totally switched off and there together with just us as our family,” says Meehan, who declined to disclose his building cost.

Meehan isn’t bothered by inconveniences caused by the elements, such as needing to wait for the snowplows after a storm. After all, he doesn’t need plowed roads to go skiing: His property is ski-in/ski-out. “I would have an issue if I lived at the base of the mountain and had to go up and down all the time” on the road, he says. “That’s hair-raising.”

Hastings thinks he can lure more homeowners like Meehan to the mountaintop with his new private skiing offering, which launched this season.

Only three Powder Haven houses have been on the market since Hastings took over, says Brandi Hammon, Powder’s chief revenue officer. The most recent sale, in January, was for $2.6 million, at $1,354 per square feet. That is in the ballpark of a 50% increase in price per square foot since before Hastings’s time. In 2022, there were only two sales: $4.85 million at $881 per square foot, and $2.695 million at $916 per square foot.

Currently, there is only one Powder Haven house on the market, for $2.85 million, which is $1,425 per square foot. That is up from a list price of $2 million in November 2022, according to public records.

Hastings’s plans for Powder Mountain have caused some locals and visitors anxiety about the mountain becoming exclusive and expensive. Yet people also seem relieved that Hastings’s intention seems to be trying to improve the ski area without overdeveloping it—and keeping it out of the red. “Maybe people might be upset about the concept of private, but the public can ski 60% of the mountain and I think it’s the best 60%,” Meehan says.

Hastings has already invested $100 million in making improvements at Powder Mountain, which includes building two new lifts and upgrading two existing ones. Now, he says he’s investing $200 million more, primarily focused on Powder Haven. Projects include improving homeowner services such as snowplowing and landscaping, building new infrastructure like trails that connect homes to key buildings and updating the design guidelines to improve lot sizes, easements and view corridors.

Plans are under way to break ground this summer on a 55,000-square-foot private lodge to replace the yurt-style one. A contemporary structure with a nod to Swiss chalet architecture, it will have a spa, gym, pool, pickleball courts, kids adventure center, ski valet, private dining space and a restaurant. A new neighborhood with 39 ski-in/ski-out lots is fully reserved; building costs, inclusive of the lot, start around $1,500 per square foot. More private ski lifts are coming, too.

Meanwhile, on the public side, Hasting is adding artwork such as a James Turrell light installation, which will be located in a trailside pavilion.

Hastings is wrestling with a U.S. ski landscape that has changed dramatically since the early 2000s. For one, the introduction of the Epic Pass, in 2008, and Ikon Pass, in 2018, allows people to visit multiple ski areas without purchasing individual lift tickets. At some resorts, this has led to complaints about overcrowding and slopes getting skied out within hours of a snowstorm. Powder Mountain is not part of either program.

For those who can afford it, private skiing is a mass-pass antidote, offering no lift lines, mostly empty slopes and uncut powder two weeks after it snows. Since its founding in the 1990s, Yellowstone Club in Big Sky, Mont., had long been the only significant private ski club with luxury real estate in the U.S. It is adjacent to Big Sky Resort.

There’s a reason there aren’t many private ski clubs. Unlike Powder Mountain, which is on private land, many ski areas are on public land. Finding and buying enough private land that checks all the boxes for a good ski resort would be a tall order, says Scott Shuman, a partner and auctioneer at Eaton, Colo.-based Hall & Hall, which specializes in large ranch auctions. In 35 years, Shuman can only remember one land auction involving a ski hill. The “lift” was a snowmobile.

Besides Powder Haven, at least one new private skiing club is now operating. Wasatch Peaks Ranch, about 40 miles north of Salt Lake City and not far from Powder Mountain, is a residential community with private skiing.

Lara Cumberland, 50, a longtime tech executive, splits her time between Powder Haven and California’s Bay Area. Her mountain house is 5,200 square feet and five bedrooms. Construction cost around $1,150 per square foot and took about three years, as building slowed because of two extreme winters. The property was finished in 2024.

Cumberland appreciates that her house location affords her access to private skiing, but she is glad Powder Mountain didn’t go all private. “I like its local history and wouldn’t have wanted to give that up,” she says. Besides the panoramic mountain and valley views from her house—a result of being located at the top of the mountain—what she has come to love about the area is the people. “I want to be part of the community and work to preserve it as it grows,” she says.

At Powder Mountain, Hastings is catering to a narrow set of enthusiasts who are into a particular high-end outdoor subculture. And they all have one thing in common.

“It is a very interesting group of people who are willing to drive up that road and live at the top of the mountain,” Hastings says.

Write to Jessica Flint at Jessica.Flint@wsj.com

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Trump’s Golden Age Begins With a Brutal Trade War

President Trump won last fall’s election on the pledge of a new “golden age.” Public confidence perked up and the stock markets leapt.

This week showed the dark side of that promised golden age. On Tuesday, as Trump boasted to Congress that “America’s momentum is back,” he was allowing steep new tariffs on Mexico and Canada to take effect, initiating what may become the most brutal trade war since the 1930s.

Stocks have largely surrendered their postelection euphoria, consumer confidence has wilted, and economists talk of stagflation —a spell of slow to stagnant growth and higher inflation.

Mindful of the fallout, Trump’s advisers have pressed for ways to delay or modify the tariffs. A 30-day carve-out for autos was announced Wednesday, and on Thursday Trump said tariffs on some Mexican and Canadian goods would be delayed until April 2.

Don’t assume, though, that anything will fundamentally change. Trump is early in his term, enjoys complete control of his party and Congress, and is counting on tax cuts to revive confidence. Lower interest rates and oil prices may soften the sting of tariffs. All that gives him freedom to indulge his most deeply held instincts on trade.

His decision to effectively repudiate the North American free-trade pact he himself negotiated in 2018 flows from a lifelong belief that allies and trading partners are freeloaders who diminish rather than augment American wealth and security. A similar mindset explains his decision to cut off aid to Ukraine and signal diminished support for Western European security.

He insists tariffs will make America rich. But this is true only in a relative sense.

If the tariffs stay, Canada and Mexico are likely both headed into deep recessions followed by years of painful adjustment to lost access to the massive U.S. market.

The fallout for the U.S. will be much less thanks to its size, wealth and entrepreneurial dynamism; but it will be negative, nonetheless. The U.S. would lose the efficiency and economies of scale that a continentwide market affords and the trust that has kept relations with its neighbors placid and predictable.

Trump’s real endgame

Outsiders have struggled to discern Trump’s endgame because he and his advisers advance multiple, conflicting motives for his behavior.

His advisers describe him as a dealmaker for whom tariffs are a means to an end. But through his actions, Trump has shown that tariffs are the end.

The stated justification for tariffs on Canada and Mexico was to reduce the inflow of fentanyl and illegal migrants. They complied: Illegal crossings at the southern border came to a near halt and Mexico extradited 29 drug bosses to the U.S. Seizures of fentanyl across the northern border, already low, plummeted in January, according to U.S. data.

Trump went ahead with the tariffs anyway. And in remarks Monday, he made his motives clear. “It’s going to be very costly for people to take advantage of this country,” he explained. “They can’t come in and steal our money and steal our jobs and take our factories and take our businesses and expect not to be punished.”

He is seeking not just to eliminate drugs, illegal immigration or even trade deficits, but to appropriate the industrial bases of Mexico and Canada. “What they have to do is build their car plants, frankly, and other things, in the United States, in which case you have no tariffs,” he said.

With Canada, his aims are more ambitious, and ominous. He has said Canada can avoid the tariffs by becoming part of the U.S. “What he wants is to see a total collapse of the Canadian economy, because that’ll make it easier to annex us,” outgoing Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Tuesday.

The near and far costs

The U.S. market is too big to ignore so many multinationals will indeed choose to locate in the U.S. rather than Canada, Mexico or elsewhere.

That will benefit some American workers and companies. U.S. steelmakers are thrilled that prices are already up about 30% since January, before Trump announced tariffs on the metal.

Studies of past tariffs, though, show that gains to producers are more than offset by losses to consumers. Steel users are already complaining. Based on previous tariff episodes, Goldman Sachs expects consumers to pay 70% of the new tariffs on Mexico, Canada and China, amounting to $260 billion a year.

The cost to consumers comes not just in the form of higher prices, but the products they never buy because they aren’t available or are too expensive.

Anderson Economic Group, a business consulting firm, estimates tariffs will add $4,000 to $10,000 to the cost of a North American-built vehicle. For models with few substitutes, 75% to 80% of that will be passed on to consumers, reducing affordability and thus sales, said President Patrick Anderson. In addition, some models and options will simply no longer be available because they can’t be built at a price acceptable to the consumer, he said.

Every action has a reaction

Trump proceeds on the assumption that other countries have much more to lose from an economic or geopolitical rupture than the U.S. and will thus accede to his demands. Thus far, he’s been mostly right.

But should Mexico and Canada conclude that tariffs are not a negotiation but the endgame, their strategy will shift, from trying to please Trump to fortifying themselves against a newly capricious and threatening neighbor.

Until the 1990s, relations between the U.S. and Mexico were marked by mistrust and lack of cooperation on a broad range of political and economic issues.

“Our whole DNA was anti-U.S.,” said Jorge Guajardo, a former Mexican ambassador to China who is now with DGA Group, a global risk consulting firm. Free trade, he said, changed that. If it goes away, Mexico would revert to “complete mistrust of the northern neighbor,” reducing cooperation on crime, immigration, health and climate.

In Canada, Trump’s tariffs and professed aim of annexation have aroused a wave of nationalism and anger with little modern precedent.

The forthcoming federal election has been transformed from a referendum on the unpopular Trudeau, to a contest over who can best stand up to Trump.

“I don’t think Canada can ever again look upon the U.S. as a reliable economic partner,” said John Manley , a former deputy prime minister. “It has to develop its own strategy for building its own economy and looking elsewhere.”

Write to Greg Ip at greg.ip@wsj.com

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Sydney’s Hidden Chateau: Bellevue Hill’s Regal Landmark on the Market

Sydney isn’t known for its castles, but Chateau de Benelong is a local landmark with a difference. The regal seven-bedroom 1970s residence with its Roman archways and Greek columns stands tall among its neighbouring contemporary homes on Benelong Cres in Bellevue Hill.

The eastern suburbs palace was created by award-winning designer Lesley Santy in the neo-classical style. Santy wasn’t known for architecture, but did win a gold medal in the 1957 international furniture exhibition in Milan.

Benelong Crescent’s landmark property stood largely untouched for decades before getting an extensive custom renovation in 2011 by former owners Nare Elio and Makedonka Del-Ben of the Big Dig Build Group. The pair had paid $3.67 million for it in 2009 and set about adding a pool, a pavilion, a home theatre and wine cellar.

It was back on the market by 2012 with a $7.5 million price guide, but ended up selling for $4.995 million. The chateau last exchanged hands in 2015 for $5.9 million.

Fast forward a decade, and Bellevue Hill is now home to Australia’s most expensive property according to Domain’s December House Price Report showing a median sale price of $8.51 million.

Today, the home described as “one of Sydney’s most iconic residences” has resurfaced with price expectations of $13 million to $15 million via Paul Biller and Ben Torban of Biller Property – the agency behind the sale a decade ago.

The impressive three-storey home is a blend of European style and theatrical Hollywood grandeur.

Thanks to its elevated position, Chateau de Benelong has sweeping views over the harbour from a variety of vantage points.

Across the ground floor there are several living spaces for casual and more formal entertaining, as well as wide north and south-facing terraces to follow the sun all year long. Throughout the grand home there are stylish interiors including grand hallways, high ceilings and a series of iconic arched windows which open out to private terraces.

This ground floor layout is home to two kitchens with a separate wing suitable for guest or staff accommodation. The primary kitchen has been reimagined in a French Provincial style with an adjoining outdoor kitchen and Travertine terrace for alfresco gatherings. Beyond the barbecue area, the yard has a heated mosaic-tiled pool and landscaped gardens.

There is even more space for entertaining in style with a poolside cabana, a lower level rumpus room or home theatre plus a gym or yoga room.

Up on the accommodation level a main bedroom suite has a dressing room, a large ensuite and balcony, while four more bedrooms on the same level have Travertine ensuites or balcony access.

Additional features include internal access to a four-car garage, a wine cellar, ducted air-conditioning and DA approval for a rooftop terrace capitalising on harbour views.

Chateau de Benelong is positioned close to sought after schools, popular harbour beaches, Bondi Beach, Double Bay shopping, and the Rose Bay ferry wharf.

 

Bellevue Hill’s Chateau de Benelong is listed with Paul Biller of Biller Property with a $13 million to $15 million price guide.

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A Celebration of Power, Prestige, and Innovation 

Sydney’s Cockatoo Island became the epicenter of luxury motoring as the Sydney Harbour Concours d’Elegance returned for its seventh edition from February 28 to March 2.  

This year’s event showcased an extraordinary lineup of over 70 rare and prestigious vehicles from 1905 to 2025 in Australia’s most exclusive celebration of automotive craftsmanship. 

Against the stunning backdrop of Sydney Harbour, attendees were treated to a world-class display of automotive excellence, from pre-war classics to modern hypercars and groundbreaking electric innovations. 

A Weekend of Automotive Excellence 

The “Magnificent 7” theme honoured the most celebrated vehicles in motoring history. Among the standout displays were a 1933 Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 GS and a 1967 Lamborghini Miura, two of the most revered icons of automotive design. 

Magneto Magazine noted the diversity of the showcase, which included curated classes such as “100 Years of the French Revolution” and “Icons,” while Exhaust Notes Australia reported that more than 75 vintage, classic, and high-performance vehicles, motorcycles, and sustainable energy were exhibited throughout the weekend. 

The event unfolded across three distinctive showcase days: 

  • Le Classique (Friday): A tribute to vintage and pre-war motoring masterpieces. 
  • Super Saturday: A celebration of modern supercars and performance legends. 
  • Sunday Électronique: A look toward the future of motoring, featuring electric hypercars and sustainable luxury innovations. 

Beyond the automobiles, guests indulged in private viewings, gourmet dining, and immersive brand experiences, cementing the Concours as a benchmark event in the global luxury automotive calendar. 

The Citizen Kanebridge Lounge: An Exclusive Retreat 

For those seeking the ultimate luxury experience, the Citizen Kanebridge Lounge offered an unparalleled retreat within the event.  

The lounge, reserved for VIP guests, provided a sophisticated escape with private hospitality, fine dining, and curated wines and spirits tastings. 

Special talks from industry experts, car designers, and collectors were held throughout the weekend, offering an insider’s perspective on the future of luxury motoring. 

The Rolls-Royce Spectre Steals the Show 

Among the many highlights, one vehicle commanded particular attention: the Rolls-Royce Black Badge Spectre, the marque’s first fully electric luxury coupé.  

Crowned Robb Report’s Car of the Year, the Spectre was hailed as a defining moment in automotive history. 

Horacio Silva, Editor-in-Chief and Publisher of Robb Report Australia & New Zealand, presented the award to Juliana Tan of Rolls-Royce (pictured). The award recognised the Spectre’s seamless fusion of heritage and cutting-edge technology. 

Described as “a masterpiece of modern engineering and timeless craftsmanship”, the Spectre represents a bold new era for Rolls-Royce — and, as some judges claimed, could be the finest EV ever made. 

Sydney’s Signature Automotive Event 

As the motoring world moves toward an electrified future, the Sydney Harbour Concours d’Elegance continues to strike a perfect balance between tradition and innovation.  

With over 70 of the world’s most extraordinary vehicles, from pre-war classics to the latest in sustainable luxury, the 2025 event reaffirmed its place as a global leader in celebrating automotive excellence. 

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Australia’s Economy Gathers Momentum as Fresh Storms Brew

australian flag with gold

Australia’s economy grew at a faster pace in the fourth quarter of 2024, shrugging off the threat of a recession just as the global outlook has dimmed amid a rapidly escalating trade war led by the U.S., and a sharp rise in geopolitical risks.

The economy grew 0.6% sequentially in the December quarter, and by 1.3% from a year earlier, the Australian Bureau of Statistics said Wednesday. The economy had clocked an annual growth rate of 0.8% in the prior quarter.

While the economic growth remains well below its historical average pace, it is pulling clear of a slump that saw growth virtually flat-line over the last year. Meanwhile, fresh storms are brewing as the U.S. moves to drive up tariffs on its key trading partners and stoke global uncertainty by halting aid for Ukraine in its war against Russia.

The Reserve Bank of Australia has said it is watching the situation closely, especially in terms of how it affects China, the country’s largest trading partner. However, the RBA’s trajectory for interest rates remains unclear as the central bank is uncertain about how crippled global supply chains and rapidly rising tariffs will affect inflation.

Coupled with the probability of weakened global growth, the central bank remains cautious.

RBA Deputy Gov. Andrew Hauser told a conference earlier Wednesday that even as the global backdrop weakens, the policy-making board of the RBA doesn’t yet see a need for a series of interest rate cuts, adding to the one announced in February.

“Interest rates will go where they need to go to maximize the chances of keeping inflation sustainably in the target band while helping to sustain full employment. Progress towards that target has been good — but it is too soon to declare victory,” Hauser told the AFR Business Summit.

Both public and private spending contributed to the modest recovery in growth in the fourth quarter, supported by a rise in exports of goods and services, the ABS said.

GDP per capita grew 0.1% this quarter following seven consecutive quarters of falls, it added.

Household spending rose 0.4% after a flat result in the September quarter with spending on essentials such as rent and health among the highest contributors to spending growth, the data showed.

Household discretionary spending rose as people made the most of retail sales events and increased spending on hospitality, the ABS said.

Growth in government spending moderated to 0.7% per cent in the quarter following larger rises in previous quarters, the data showed.

Private investment rose 0.3% in the quarter with a focus of new engineering, construction of electricity generation and distribution projects, and mining.

Public investment rose 1.8% amid a boom in state and territory government spending on public transport, roads, water and renewable electricity infrastructure, the ABS said.

Write to James Glynn at james.glynn@wsj.com

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Frank Sinatra’s Former Los Angeles Home Finds a Buyer for $5 Million

Expensive house on a hill

Frank Sinatra’s former Los Angeles mid-century home, now a prime Hollywood filming spot, sold for $5 million on Tuesday.

The boxy, glass home on a promontory in Chatswood was rented by Sinatra in the 1960s and was an industry party spot and “playground” for the elite during Hollywood’s Golden Age, according to the listing. It’s since become a popular filming location, more recently setting the backdrop for multiple music videos from Miley Cyrus’s album “Endless Summer Vacation.”

Sinatra’s former address, which includes the main home on a 4-acre parcel and a 9-acre plot with a guest house, was built by mid-century master William Pereira for Chase Bank heiress Dora Hutchinson.

Besides music videos, it was featured in the long-running TV show “Mad Men” and the 2006 movie “Dreamgirls,” and hosted a Hermés launch party in 2022.

According to its listing, “every studio, every production designer and every location manager knows about this fabled property,” that generates between $750,000 and $1,200,000 annually in rentals.

The main 4-acre property listed for $12.75 million in 2022, Mansion Global previously reported .

MORE: Creating a Killer ‘White Lotus’ Vibe In Your Home With Thai Decor

Last year, Rock Asset Management Trust took over the estate in a foreclosure sale for $2.1 million. “Between reliance on a single revenue stream, Covid and the [2023 Hollywood] writers’ strike, the owners were unable to service the mortgage obligations,” said the sellers’ agent, Craig Knizek at the Agency.

Rick Wolfen, president of Rock Asset Management, did not immediately respond to requests for a comment.

Previously, the main property and its neighboring parcel with the guest house—which once housed Marilyn Monroe and was reportedly a rendezvous location during her affair with John F. Kennedy—were listed together for $21.5 million.

MORE: Max Azria’s Los Angeles Estate Now Asking Less Than Half Its Original Asking Price

“While this listing has been over-priced for the past 13 years, under new ownership, it finally is ready to sell, for the right fair market value,” the most recent listing read.

Tuesday’s buyer also paid $3 million for the larger guest-house parcel that is now primed for new development, separated into 11 single-family lots.

The L-shaped Midcentury Modern house faces a classic California valley panorama. The main living space on one end connects to a stretch of outdoor lounges under a trellis lined with succulents. The trellis extends past the 50-foot pool into an indoor gym and massage room.

Knizek said that he thinks the modernist masterpiece had still been “underutilized” and that the space has even more potential. Think corporate retreats, restaurant collaborations and weddings, he said.

The buyer, who could not be identified, is “someone who appreciates the history and the architecture and appreciates the investment income opportunities,” Knizek said.

The home, with modernist accents like white tile floors, a dais in the bedroom, and wood panel walls, has four bedrooms and six bathrooms.

“I anticipate that the house gets spit and polished, to take it to a whole elevated level,” Knizek added.

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Australia in Global Top 10 for Ultra-Wealthy as Property Investment Grows

Australia has cemented its place among the world’s wealthiest nations, ranking ninth globally for individuals with more than US$10 million in assets, according to Knight Frank’s newly released The Wealth Report 2025.

The report found that 1.8% of the global US$10m+ population resides in Australia, with 42,789 high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs). This places Australia ahead of Hong Kong SAR (42,715 HNWIs), Italy (41,080), South Korea (39,210), and Taiwan (28,391). The United States leads the rankings, accounting for nearly 39% of the world’s ultra-wealthy.

Knight Frank Chief Economist Ben Burston noted that while Australia faced economic headwinds in 2024 due to higher interest rates, global wealth creation remained strong.

“While several major economies, including Australia, saw sluggish growth in 2024 as higher interest rates took a toll on household incomes, robust growth in the United States supported the global economy and underpinned ongoing wealth creation,” Burston said.

Future Growth: Australia’s Wealthy Set to Expand Further

The report predicts continued growth in Australia’s ultra-wealthy population, with Australasia’s US$10m+ segment expected to rise by 5.3% by 2028. The number of individuals worth US$100 million or more in the region is also projected to grow by 4.8%, from 1,918 in 2024 to 2,010 by 2028.

Globally, the number of HNWIs increased by 4.4% in 2024, reaching 2.34 million. The trend is expected to continue, with a projected rise of 6.9% by 2028.

Real Estate Investment a Key Priority for the Wealthy

Property remains a crucial asset class for the world’s wealthiest, with a survey of 150 family offices revealing a strong appetite for real estate investment.

In Australia, 31% of family offices surveyed plan to increase their real estate holdings over the next 18 months, compared to 44% globally. The top three real estate sectors of interest for Australian investors are:

  • Industrial properties (42%)
  • Data centres (21%)
  • Infrastructure (18%)

This contrasts with global preferences, where the leading investment sectors are living spaces (14%), industrial/logistics (13%), and luxury residential (12%).

Knight Frank CEO James Patterson highlighted the ongoing demand for real estate among ultra-wealthy investors, despite recent downturns in commercial property markets.

“More than 30 per cent of respondents expect to increase their exposure to real estate over the next 18 months,” Patterson said. “It’s evident investors are increasingly conscious that they can now acquire assets at an attractive entry point off the back of the downturn and with strong prospects of cyclical recovery in the medium term.”

Luxury Real Estate: A Top Choice for the Next Generation

The report also explored investment trends among younger high-net-worth individuals. Knight Frank’s Next Generation Survey, a global study of 1,788 wealthy individuals aged 18 to 35, found that real estate topped the list of luxury assets they aspire to own.

John McGrath, CEO of McGrath Estate Agents, Knight Frank’s Australian partner, noted that younger generations are drawn to real estate for both lifestyle and investment reasons.

“The next generation desires luxury real estate from a lifestyle point of view, but they can also see the strength of this asset class as an investment with continuing price growth around the world delivering ongoing capital gains,” McGrath said.

He added that Australia’s undersupply of luxury properties, combined with high demand, will continue to drive price appreciation in the sector.

“Australia is a particularly desirable market for luxury real estate due to its plentiful lifestyle locations, as well as being on the doorstep of all the global powerhouse nations within the Asian region.”

Wealth and Real Estate: A Lasting Connection

The findings reinforce the long-standing link between wealth accumulation and real estate investment. Family offices globally continue to allocate significant portions of their portfolios to property, seeing it as a hedge against inflation and a means of long-term wealth preservation.

As Australia’s ultra-wealthy population grows, so too does the demand for strategic real estate investment, with industrial, data centres, and infrastructure emerging as the preferred sectors.

With global wealth set to rise further, the Australian property market remains a key destination for high-net-worth individuals looking to expand their portfolios and secure long-term returns.

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Bitcoin, Other Cryptos Tick Up After Earlier Loss

The price of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies rose Tuesday afternoon after a roller-coaster ride over the past two days. Digital currencies had briefly traded sharply higher Sunday after President Donald Trump announced plans to create a strategic reserve of cryptos , before falling back down Monday.

But they had begun to pare Monday’s losses by 5 p.m. Eastern time Tuesday. Bitcoin is up 1.2% to $87,688 over the past 24 hours, according to CoinDesk data. It had previously jumped to $95,136 after Trump announced the crypto reserve on Sunday.

Most cryptos popped Sunday in response to the news of a crypto reserve. But by late Tuesday afternoon, of the five cryptos singled out by Trump for inclusion in the strategic reserve— XRP , Cardano , Solana , Bitcoin, and Ethereum —only XRP and Cardano had held on to significant gains. The rest were trading around their pre- announcement prices.

XRP, the digital coin used to facilitate and settle payments on the Ripple platform, rose 3% to $2.49, while Cardano rose 10% to 95 cents.

Ethereum gained 0.4% to $2,175 and Solana rose 1.5% to $145.

Before Tuesday’s uptick, FxPro analyst Alex Kuptsikevich said, “sentiment in the cryptocurrency market has returned to extreme fear territory,” noting that it was at its second-lowest level in more than 2½ years. Only on Thursday was sentiment worse.

Pressure in other markets has clipped the cryptocurrencies’ wings, Kuptsikevich added. The tariffs the president had threatened against Mexico and Canada took effect Tuesday , sending markets lower.

The Dow closed down 1.6%, erasing all its gains since the election. The Nasdaq Composite briefly slid into correction territory, before closing down 0.4%, and the S&P 500 fell 1.2%.

Sunday’s executive order to potentially include altcoins XRP, Solana, and Cardano in a U.S. crypto strategic reserve was also ill-received by the Bitcoin community, said Michael Terpin, CEO of Transform Ventures, a blockchain communications firm.

“While providing tax incentives to American crypto companies is a good idea, a strategic stockpile should only include the highest quality, truly decentralized digital asset: Bitcoin,” Terpin said. “Adding secondary cryptos controlled by companies and foundations would be akin to adding gold mining and energy stocks to the strategic gold and oil reserves.”

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The Rise of Robotic Mowing: Husqvarna Marks 30 Years of Innovation

Husqvarna is celebrating 30 years of robotic mowing in 2025, marking three decades since the company launched its first autonomous lawn mower. What began as an ambitious idea in 1995 has since evolved into a global industry, with robotic mowers now maintaining everything from suburban backyards to large-scale public spaces.

The company’s first model, the Solar Mower, was an early foray into automated lawn care, using solar power to operate independently. Today, Husqvarna has developed a fleet of 31 robotic mowers designed for both residential and commercial use, reflecting the growing demand for autonomous solutions in outdoor maintenance.

In Australia, the uptake of robotic mowers has been steady, with early adopters seeing the potential for these machines to simplify lawn care. Pru Stever, owner of Paull’s Richmond Mowers, was among the first to recognise the shift in consumer demand.

“Around 2007, we noticed customers becoming more interested in automated solutions,” she said. “It was clear that robotic mowers were going to become an important part of the industry, and we adapted accordingly.”

John Hickleton, founder of Mowers Galore, saw the scale of robotic mower adoption during a 2017 study tour in Europe.

“Looking out the train window in Sweden, I saw these mowers in almost every backyard. They were being used in public parks, along nature strips, and even at Denmark’s Tivoli Gardens. It showed just how advanced other countries were in adopting this technology,” he said.

While robotic mowing has been widely accepted in Europe, Australian homeowners and businesses have taken longer to integrate the technology into their maintenance routines. However, the trend is shifting, driven by the convenience and environmental benefits of battery-powered automation.

Over the past three decades, Husqvarna has continued to refine its technology, introducing models with GPS-assisted navigation, app connectivity, and all-wheel-drive capabilities for challenging terrains. More recently, the launch of the CEORA system has expanded the technology’s application to commercial turf management, covering areas up to 75,000 square meters.

Despite initial scepticism, the company’s long-term investment in robotics has positioned it as a leader in automated lawn care. Former Husqvarna CEO Henric Andersson previously reflected on the company’s willingness to take risks in developing new technologies.

“Courage is important, but so is the ability to commit to an idea long enough to see it succeed,” he said.

As Husqvarna marks its 30-year milestone, the role of robotic mowing in outdoor maintenance continues to grow. With increasing concerns around sustainability and efficiency, the industry is expected to expand further, reshaping how lawns and public spaces are managed in Australia and beyond.

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Family Is What Threatens a Family’s Fortune. Tales From Those in the Know.

rich family
The biggest risk family offices face isn’t taxes, regulations, or investments that go south—it’s the family itself, according to the executive of one of these offices.

This executive is speaking from experience. The rich, self-made patriarch he works for hasn’t made a succession plan for his family office despite being in his 70s and unhealthy. Without a plan, the patriarch’s wife and two of his three adult children are on a spending path that could deplete half the family’s wealth by the third generation, the executive said in an interview for a Deloitte Private report published on February 28.

“Overspending is the biggest risk—the numerous houses they have bought that need to be managed, the household staff, the drivers, private jets, yachts, et cetera,” he said. “They have become accustomed to a certain lifestyle.”

The interview was one of 10 experiences of anonymous family office executives that revealed the complexity of managing wealth for super large, super rich families. Their stories are offered to lift a veil on these notoriously private enterprises, “to help the family office community learn from the best about how to successfully navigate the complicated world we live in and plan for long-term success,” according to Rebecca Gooch, global head of insights at Deloitte and a report author.

These offices typically oversee investing and wealth management, but also tasks ranging from day-to-day financial management to estate planning. According to a September report from Deloitte, the number of single-family offices globally increased nearly 31% to an estimated 8,030 last year from 6,130 in 2019, while assets under management rose by 63% to $3.1 trillion.

The rich, ailing patriarch is failing to put a succession plan in place because he fears upsetting those close to him who have taken on senior roles in the family office, despite lacking competence, the executive said.

Deloitte included this case study to show that challenges with succession are common within the wealth community, and are rarely discussed in public. “Normally, they are too private to do that, and once a family loses their wealth, they are no longer captured in family office studies,” Gooch said. “In turn, this is a very interesting and personal warning to the community.”

By contrast, the CEO of another family office described how much he enjoyed working for one of the wealthiest and most high-profile people in the world who wants to spend down his fortune by combating climate change and supporting science and research into neurodegenerative diseases. “We are here to look after the principal, manage what he has, and frankly, to give his money away to good causes,” the CEO said.

The way this family tackles issues is innovative, even among family offices, Gooch said. “The team looks at a problem, such as climate change, and thinks about how to tackle it from a variety of perspectives,” she said. “They look at it from a sustainable investing angle, a philanthropy angle, and a political action front to see if policy changes can make a positive difference.”

Another large, prominent global family—with their main offices in Africa and the U.K.—decided it best to split its operations into two branches to cater to separate wings of the family, a move that runs counter to the more common path of keeping a family together to achieve economies of scale and to avoid redundancies, according to a chief operating officer with the family.

“It was a painful process, but in hindsight, it was the right decision,” the COO said. “Families should feel empowered to do good in their respective ways.”

Other families detailed their experiences with cyberattacks, including the CEO of a U.S.-based office that suffered two attacks in quick succession. In separate research published late last year, Deloitte found 43% of family offices had a cyberattack in the past 12 to 24 months, up from 15% in 2016. Yet nearly a third don’t have a cybersecurity strategy in place, Gooch said.

Although many families now have stories to tell, they “still have a long way to go before they are adequately prepared—and the threats around them, particularly with AI and deep fakes, are rapidly growing in sophistication.”

Corrections & Amplifications

The rich, ailing patriarch described in the report is failing to put a succession plan in place because he fears upsetting those who have taken on senior roles in the family office. An earlier version of this article incorrectly said it was family members who have taken on senior roles.

Yet nearly a third of those surveyed don’t have a cybersecurity strategy in place. An earlier version of this article incorrectly said it was more than a third.

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REVEALED: HOW TO DISCOVER THE BEST AUSTRALIAN WINES

Australia is home to some of the world’s most diverse and high-quality wines, rivalling the best from Europe.

With its varied climate, innovative winemakers, and some of the oldest vines, our nation has firmly established itself as a powerhouse of premium wine production.

But with so many options, how can you find the very best bottles? Here, we reveal how you can discover Australia’s best wines.

  1. Look for Boutique Producers. Many of the finest wines come from small, independent winemakers who prioritise craftsmanship over mass production.
  2. Explore Different Regions: Each region offers something unique, from the cool-climate Pinot Noirs of Tasmania to the bold Shirazes of the Barossa Valley.
  3. Seek Out Expertly Curated Selections: Finding the right one can be daunting, with thousands of wines produced yearly. Relying on expert panels or curated selections can help uncover hidden gems.
  4. Consider Terroir and Winemaking Techniques: The best wines express their region’s unique climate and soil, with winemakers using traditional and modern methods to enhance their character.
  5. Trust Award-Winning Wines:  Wines that have been blind-tasted and judged by professionals are often a reliable choice.

Wine Selectors has been dedicated to uncovering and championing Australia’s most exceptional wines for five decades.

As the only wine retailer in Australia that exclusively offers Australian wines, it has forged close relationships with more than 500 family-owned wineries, ensuring access to distinctive and high-quality bottles.

The Wine Selectors Tasting Panel, comprising leading sommeliers, winemakers, and industry judges, blind tastes more than 6,000 wines each year. Only those scoring at least a bronze medal standard are selected, ensuring members receive only the best.

“Every panel tasting brings out new gems, and it’s great to find these wines so the consumer can learn about them too,” says Hunter Valley winemaker and Tasting Panel member Keith Tulloch.

Beyond offering wine, Wine Selectors is committed to storytelling, introducing wine lovers to the history, people, and regions behind each bottle.

Founder Greg Walls believes that wine is more than just taste; it’s about connecting with producers who share a passion for excellence.

“We’re not satisfied with big business commoditising and dominating our taste buds,” says Walls.

“The wine producers that we work with and present to our members exemplify a shared striving for excellence: beautifully crafted wines where you can taste the winemaker in each. Now that’s something we should all celebrate.”

 

 

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Historic Peppermint Grove Estate Hits the Market with $11m Price Guide

It was the unique limestone that drew Janine Lauder in when she first set her sights on Minderup in Peppermint Grove 16 years ago. The commercial interior designer operates Janineous Design and has been a driving force on various renovation projects from Pymble Ladies’ College in Sydney to luxury hotels like the Pacific Hotels in Cairns and Brisbane. Her years of experience allowed her to immediately recognise the Victorian regency home’s great bones.

“One of the things that attracted us to the house is its history, and the limestone. The front section, hand-cut from local limestone in 1898, has withstood the test of time. The trees are well over 100 years old, and the house has a beautiful soul,” Janine said, adding that her vision for the revival of the historic home was clear from day one.

“My planning from the outset was to ensure form and function plus a connection from the front gate to the backyard. It all works together. The floor plan has not been static over the years, it has evolved with us. The living room was once used as a billiard room and my study – we have ‘his’ and ‘hers’ studies – was originally a children’s playroom for the family’s ever-changing needs.”

Throughout more than a century, the Irvine St residence has been home to several colourful residents including the previous owner, Olga Dickson, who lived there from the age of nine until her 80s. Olga established the Kindergarten of the Air during wartime. Edmund James Houghton Nicholson, who commanded the 10th Light Horse Regiment and also fought in Gallipoli, was the original owner.

“This is one of Peppermint Grove’s best houses, so rich in both character and sophistication,” said listing agent, Jody Fewster, principal of Ray White Cottesloe | Mosman Park. She is marketing the property with a $11 million price guide through an expressions of interest campaign closing on March 18.

Blending heritage charm with modern luxury, the 1819sq m Peppermint Grove property features five bedrooms, including a guest suite with a private entry, plus four bathrooms, two powder rooms, and an outdoor shower.

There is a choice of living spaces, with four fireplaces, a modern kitchen with two dishwashers, integrated fridges, and wine fridges. In the large wine cellar there is air conditioning and humidifier

In addition to the multiple indoor entertaining spaces, there is an outdoor room complete with a barbecue that features a wok station, and a South American-style Parrilla for fire cooking.

In the spacious back yard there is a grand 100-year-old Tuart tree, level lawns and a family-friendly pool.

“I really wanted to maintain a sense of history and connection to the newest parts of the home. The house truly flows and is very practical,” Janine said.

Completely updated for 21st Century living, the home has secure heritage windows and doors, an app-controlled alarm, nine CCTV cameras, and electric gates.

As well as a gated three-car space at the front of the property, there is also a five-car garage at the rear, and space for a further three vehicles.

 

The historic Peppermint Grove property is listed with Ray White Cottesloe/Mosman Park principal Jody Fewster with an $11 million price guide. Offers close on March 18, if not sold prior.

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Precision Meets Prestige at the 3rd Annual Citizen Kanebridge Open

Golf and luxury converged at the 3rd Annual Citizen Kanebridge Open, held last week at the picturesque Mount Broughton Golf Course in the Southern Highlands.

The event, a staple in the calendar for those who appreciate both precision and prestige, attracted an elite gathering of golf enthusiasts, business leaders, and connoisseurs of the finer things in life.

The 18-hole, par 72 championship course, renowned for its lush fairways and challenging play, provided the perfect backdrop for a day of competitive yet convivial sport.

Participants navigated the rolling greens with skill and strategy, vying for an impressive lineup of prizes, including a Zenith wall clock, an elegant Armani tea set, and a $500 M.J. Bale voucher.

A highlight of the day was the exclusive whisky tastings courtesy of the Whisky & Wealth Club at the Par 10 station.

The Paramonte Legal team, headed by Robert Bounassif, won the overall trophy for the day.

Beyond the fairways, the Open delivered an experience that extended far beyond the game.

As one attendee noted, “This event isn’t just about golf—it’s about celebrating the art of excellence, whether on the course, in timepieces, or in life.”

As the sun set over the Highlands, players and guests transitioned from the greens to the grandeur of the Citizen Kanebridge Lodge in Berrima for an exclusive after-party.

A highlight of the night  was an engaging talk on the history of watches, reinforcing the event’s theme of precision and craftsmanship.

The evening was a seamless blend of sophistication and camaraderie, where guests relaxed, networked, and toasted to another successful tournament.

“The Citizen Kanebridge Open has evolved into more than just a golf tournament; it’s an immersive experience that marries sport, luxury, and connection in an unparalleled setting,” said a spokesperson for Citizen Kanebridge.

“Each year, we strive to elevate the event, and this edition has certainly set a new benchmark.”

Here’s to another year of precision, passion, and play.