12 Cliff Street

Few Sydney homes can claim a legacy as rich or enduring as this remarkable c1860 double-fronted cottage. Originally positioned at the water's edge overlooking the harbour entrance, the historic residence was once home to the Harbour Master, who kept watch over the procession of ships arriving in and departing from Sydney Harbour.

This intimate bond with the sea later captivated celebrated Australian artist John Olsen, who lived here during the 1960s and 1970s, with the shifting light and water inspiring some of his most significant works, including his Opera House masterpiece, 'Salute to Five Bells'. Beautifully renovated as a five-bedroom family residence, the freestanding weatherboard retains its authentic character while embracing an artful fusion of vintage and contemporary design.

Lofty 3.4m ceilings, limewashed floorboards and whimsical bursts of colour bring creative energy to the interiors, while elevated harbour views reinforce its enduring connection to the water. Entrenched in Sydney's maritime history and woven into the cultural fabric of Watsons Bay, this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to secure a home of extraordinary provenance and soul. In the heart of Australia's most picturesque seaside village, it's 300m to Camp Cove Beach and 350m to the ferry wharf, Doyles and Watsons Bay Hotel.

Here, history, art and harbour life converge in a home that could never be replicated.

• A property of rare historical pedigree
• Light-filled interiors, shiplap panelling
• Flexible family focused 5 bed layout
• 3 king-sized bedrooms on one level
• Master retreat with a harbour-view deck
• Family room anchored by a fireplace
• Chef's kitchen with an Ilve range cooker
• Stone breakfast island, walk-in pantry
• Spacious living/dining, custom joinery
• RealFlame fire, steel-framed bi-fold doors
• Seamless flow to an enchanting courtyard
• Bougainvillea-framed deck, sea breezes
• Lower level media retreat or 5th bedroom
• Designer marble-finished bathrooms
• Powder room, hydronic central heating
• 300m to the beach, 350m to the city ferry

Disclaimer: All information contained herein, including the description, floor plan, and images, is gathered from reliable sources. We have no reason to doubt its accuracy; however, we cannot guarantee it. All interested parties should make and rely upon their inquiries.

In conjunction with Alexander Phillips, Ray White Phillips & Co 0418 404 337