Golden slice of 1960s Balmoral Beach real estate on offer for the first time.

By ANNA USHER

When psychiatrist Dr Ken Mackey and wife Shirley returned to Australia from Europe in 1967, finding a state-of-the-art home was a high priority.

The society couple assumed Sydney’s glitzy eastern suburbs would deliver everything they desired in a home: water views, a striking, modern kitchen, plentiful storage and two bathrooms.

“At that time, Mosman was a sleepy suburb of Federation-era cottages, so you can imagine their surprise when they discovered exactly what they were looking for on Balmoral Beach,” niece Melissa Faulkner told Mosman Collective.

“My aunt and uncle were visiting a friend on Ryan Ave when they happened to stumble upon a building site that caught their eye.”

24 Lower Almora St was a sizeable 700 sqm block in the process of being transformed into four “Garden Apartments”, each the size of a typical lower north shore bungalow, but with none of the maintenance.

Japanese-inspired and designed by Bruce Robertson, the Mackeys purchased “Townhouse #1” off the plan.

It was love at first sight.

“My Aunt and Uncle lived here in their home until their 80s and never wanted to leave,” Melissa said.

“Incredibly, three of the four original owners stayed put until 2015 – that’s how perfect these townhouses are.

“It is an exceptional place to live.”

Enjoying a perfect northerly aspect and direct street access, real estate agent David Murphy says 1/24 Lower Almora St is the ultimate beachside lifestyle and a rare opportunity to secure a coveted Balmoral address.

“The property is surrounded by the very best that Sydney has to offer, with the beach a short level walk away,” Mr Murphy said.

“Selling this home for the first time in 60 years is something we look forward to.

“It is a sensational residence in immaculate condition.’

The three-bedroom (plus study) home is suitable for young families or downsizers looking for easy-care living in a dress-circle location, featuring open spaces brimming with natural light, tasteful interiors, and a stylish alfresco area.

“A renovated kitchen and downstairs bathroom mean the property is wonderful to live in now, with lots of opportunity to capitalise down the track,” Mr Murphy said.

Ms Faulkner, who inherited the home from her aunt and uncle in 2011, said 1/24 Lower Almora St has barely changed since it was featured in a 1968 edition of Home Journal magazine.

“My aunt modified the original planned front brick wall and made it lower so she could see the street vibe from a lower height,” she said.

“The bricks used in the building are historic sandstone bricks from a house demolished in Birriga Rd, Bellevue Hill, all those years ago.

“It is a home that has stood the test of time, in a great street with great neighbours.

“Our family is blessed to have had the home for such a long time, but it’s time for a new chapter.”

Features:

• Short level walk to Balmoral beach, cafes and restaurants
• Boutique block of 4 with Japanese-inspired architecture
• Spacious 3bed floorplan with study, separate laundry
• King-size main bedroom with large north-facing balcony
• Immaculate interiors with incredible unlocked potential
• Seamless indoor/outdoor flow, serene leafy surrounds
• Tandem off-street parking for two cars, additional storage
• A breathtaking offering in a world-class location.