A modernist Middle Cove residence with secret rooms at 15 The Quarterdeck has been listed for sale with an $8.25 million guide price. The property, currently owned by advertising businessman Stuart Archibald, was previously purchased from former Facebook chief executive Paul Borrud.
The home is strategically positioned next door to 13 The Quarterdeck, which set a suburb record when it sold for $11.5 million in 2021. That record-breaking property was owned by the late newsreader Brian Henderson and his wife Mardi for 27 years.
Number 15 itself made headlines in 2020 when it sold for $7.25 million, exceeding the previous suburb record by approximately $3 million.
Architectural Heritage and Modern Features
The original home was designed in 1959 by Glynn Nicholls, son of Eric Nicholls who partnered with internationally acclaimed architect Walter Burley Griffin. During Borrud’s ownership, the mid-century residence underwent significant renovation that more than doubled its scale, enhancing the harbour views and natural setting while preserving the original facade.
The property’s most distinctive feature is a secret wine cellar and tasting room concealed behind a bookcase — a sophisticated design element reminiscent of spy films. This 1252-square-meter property now includes high-technology features, large picture windows, and oversized living spaces.
The residence offers six bedrooms, five bathrooms, parking for three cars, a pool, lawn, and extensive decking that creates a resort-like atmosphere.
Sale Details
Mark Jackson of Belle Property Cammeray is handling the auction, scheduled for March 1. At the guided price of $8.25 million, the property would become the second most valuable house in Middle Cove.
Following the sale, Archibald, who has recently left his shared agency Archibald Williams to focus on his independent advertising business CA.5, plans to divide his time between Sydney and London with his family.
Published 4-February-2025