Heraldhomes editor Estelle Sarney looks back on properties for sale that have fascinated readers and made news.
The Stamford penthouses were nearly four years in the making. Stamford Land Corporation began this ambitious project in 2005, raising the roof on its Albert St hotel to create an 11-level apartment complex.
Its crowning glory - the six penthouses - became available in June.
The one pictured is the largest, at 411sq m, and has been decorated and furnished by Stewart Harris of Martin Hughes Architecture Interiors. Two others share its breathtaking views northwest, three scan the harbour and cityscape to the northeast.
Their views - striking by day and dazzling by night - are best enjoyed from glass-enclosed loggias that run the length of each apartment. The loggias' glass walls have panes that can slide up, down or from side to side to aid or restrict airflow, depending on the temperature and wind direction.
The penthouses' sense of space takes your breath away almost as much as their view. Laid in glistening chocolate marble, they sprawl across 235,411sq m, with a stud height of up to 3.3m. Floor-to-ceiling glass and full-height American walnut doors accentuate the generous amount of space.
Vast living areas, many with glass doors or, as seen here, timber panels to delineate spaces, are surrounded by expansive bedrooms and bathrooms.
The kitchens feature Caesar Stone bench-tops, American walnut joinery and top-end Miele appliances.
Bedrooms have plush wool carpet, and the master bedroom has his and hers walk-in wardrobes. Each of the three bedrooms has its own en suite, and the master's is a sight to behold. Floor-to-ceiling Pietra Grey marble tiles are matched by marble slabs on the vanities. A freestanding bath and room-like walk-in shower show off the abundance of space.
A study, guests' powder room and laundry room complete the floor plan.
The penthouses, opulent and elegant, are truly what the company wanted them to be - world-class.
They're still on the market for $2.35 million to $5 million plus.
