Sydney’s northwest is set to welcome a transformation that marries history with modern luxury as SJB Architects unveils its plans for the $300 million Putney Wharf Residences. The project centres on the restoration of the historic Halvorsen Boatshed, a landmark that will be converted into luxury residences, retail spaces and dining establishments, along with a 36-berth marina, promising an unparalleled harbourside lifestyle just 14 km from Sydney’s CBD.

Nestled along the Parramatta River with panoramic views, the location offers an ideal mix of heritage and modernity. SJB director Adam Haddow says the vision for the project is sensitive in its approach to the location’s heritage and will become a “focal point for social gatherings” along the water’s edge. “The iconic Halvorsen’s Boatshed will be thoughtfully revitalised to create a vibrant residential space that fosters community and connectivity,” he says. 

A mix of luxury residences with heritage charm

Putney Wharf Residences will feature 67 premium apartments and townhouses across three distinct residential offerings. Halvorsen’s Apartments will consist of 19 spacious residences within the restored heritage-listed boatshed. This includes 17 three-bedroom and two four-bedroom apartments, with interiors carefully designed to showcase original timber beams and other period elements that connect to the site’s maritime roots.

Adjacent to the boatshed, the Waterview Terraces on Waterview Street will introduce 18 four-bedroom townhouses with private entryways and landscaped surrounds, all set back to ensure privacy and respect the area’s character. The third component, The Residences at Putney Wharf, includes two new three-storey buildings that house 30 contemporary apartments, designed to blend seamlessly with the surroundings.

SJB’s approach, as Haddow explains, is “rooted in the rich history of the building”, aiming to reveal authentic heritage elements from the original Halvorsen’s Boatshed. The reimagined building will incorporate full-height glazing, exposed timber trusses, and preserved columns, all accentuating views of the harbour.

Cultural sensitivity in the project’s heritage integration

Honouring the area’s historical and cultural significance, SJB collaborated with First Nations cultural heritage specialists Bila Group and heritage consultants Curio Projects. “I don’t think you get a site with more of a mixed, incredible history,” says Natalie Vinton, heritage consultant at Curio Projects. “This project helps us understand where we’ve come from and how much we’ve evolved.”

SJB associate Stef Hughes says her studio interpreted First Nations cultural heritage through a site walk with Bila Group. “There was a lot of focus on the Port Jackson figs,” Hughes says. “They believed they probably would have been birthing trees, so we are maintaining all of the figs in the project. There’s one that was in a bit of an unfortunate position that we’re relocating, and it’s going to become a central point of the entry process of the site.”

A First Nations perspective was also honoured through the connection back to the water, understanding the land-water interface and what it means in a historical sense. “The goal is to ensure that any development around Sydney Harbour fosters or restores a sense of connection, allowing the public to re-establish their relationship with the area,” Haddow notes.

The Putney site holds additional historical significance as the place where James Squire first brewed beer commercially in Australia. Squire, an early settler and close friend of the well-known Aboriginal figure Woollarawarre Bennelong, established his Malting Shovel Inn in this area—a reminder of the site’s role in early Sydney’s social fabric.

Luxurious interiors and a thoughtful design for modern living

Each residence within Putney Wharf Residences will offer a blend of natural materials and sophisticated design, with neutral-toned stones and earthy finishes creating a warm atmosphere throughout. The interior spaces reflect a commitment to modern elegance, with features like sculptural stone kitchen islands, butler’s pantries, and fireplaces that enhance both style and functionality. The residences, designed with floor-to-ceiling glazing and large balconies, aim to maximise views while seamlessly connecting indoor and outdoor spaces.

The three-storey townhouses in Waterview Terraces offer an elegant entry sequence, a nod to traditional design but with a contemporary twist. These four-bedroom homes feature lush greenery, thoughtfully landscaped to ensure privacy and a sense of arrival. Meanwhile, the Residences at Putney Wharf provide a treetop perspective with expansive balconies that capture the beauty of the harbourside.

Preserving a legacy in waterfront living

Halvorsen Boatshed, originally constructed in 1941, served Australia’s war effort by building vessels for the Royal Australian Navy. Following World War II, Halvorsen Shipyards became synonymous with luxury yachts, solidifying a legacy in craftsmanship and quality. 

“Putney is almost like a little town, even though it’s part of Sydney,” Haddow says. “Pretty much everyone who’s buying into the project is from Putney, so there’s a strong sense of local engagement.”

Construction is set to begin soon with the project expected to be completed by 2027.

Images supplied.

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