The property market is something Aussies spend more time thinking about than theyโd like to admit to, but everyone knows not all homes are created equal. Here at On The Market, we scour countless property listings to share the best of the best, from palatially proportioned waterfront palaces to meticulously designed studio apartments.
Originally constructed in 1888, Iona is a Victorian Italianate manor positioned on a 2,716-square-metre parcel of land and located just moments from the CBD. Formerly the home of legendary director Baz Luhrmann and costume designer Catherine Martin, Iona has returned to the market a year after it was first listed, with a revised price guide down from $40 million to $27 million.
While thatโs still a solid chunk of change, itโs a significant discount from the current ownerโs original hopes for the home. Especially considering the possibilities that lie beyond its sandstone steps.
Zoned for both residential and commercial uses (57% commercial), its future owners will enjoy a Japanese garden by Ken Lamb, preserved original details throughout the home, and even a wine cellar and billiard room.
Address: 2 Darley Street, Darlinghurst NSW 2010
Bedrooms: 7
Bathrooms: 7
Car spaces: 12
Price Guide: $27,000,000 (sold via auction)
Designed by Martin Friedrich Architects, this Brighton jaw-dropper is a masterpiece of contemporary design, situated on a coveted Brighton corner just a 400-metre stoneโs throw away from the waters of Port Philip Bay. A glass lift connects the double-height ceilinged living areas to a rooftop terrace with panoramic bay views, while four ensuite bedrooms include a palatially proportioned master suite.
Beyond the bespoke joinery, marble finishes, and premium appliances, youโll also find a glass-sided pool, spa, sauna, steam room, gym, cinema, and wine cellar. With eight-car garaging and flawless execution, itโs one of the best recent builds weโve seen in a while.
Address: 34 Were Street, Brighton VIC 3186
Bedrooms: 5
Bathrooms: 7
Car spaces: 8
Price Guide: $16,900,000 to $18,450,000
Perched above a sandstone cliff with uninterrupted city vistas, The Glebe House by Chenchow Little is one of the more architecturally impressive homes youโll see this week.
Awarded the Wilkinson Award for architectural excellence, itโs a property that combines unmistakable sculptural ambition and refined craftsmanship, featuring double-height ceilings, arched windows and a sweeping spiral staircase to the upper level.
It features multiple living zones that spill onto garden terraces โ perfect for entertaining โ while four bedrooms, two bathrooms, and rare off-street parking cement it as a remarkable family home.
Address: 38 Ferry Road, Glebe NSW 2037
Bedrooms: 4
Bathrooms: 3
Car spaces: 1
Price Guide: Contact Agent
Designed by architect Martin Lumley and framed by Rick Eckersleyโs sculptural Japanese-inspired gardens, this Brighton residence is a proper gem. Double-height ceilings, sharp geometric lines, and walls of glass define the propertyโs interiors, while thereโs a heated indoor pool designed to be enjoyed year-round.
With four bedrooms, multiple living spaces and excellent proximity to Bay Street, Church Street and the Golden Mile beaches, itโs a home that could be enhanced with a few minor renovations or simply enjoyed as it is.
Address: 10 Holmwood Avenue, Brighton VIC 3186
Bedrooms: 4
Bathrooms: 3
Car spaces: 2
Price Guide: $4,200,000 to $4,600,000