When Apartments & Developments is invited to take a personalised tour of a complete residential property, we jump at the chance. Particularly when it’s a world-class sub-penthouse in one of Melbourne’s most iconic buildings.
And that’s exactly what we did with the opulent $8.5m property at 5501/63 La Trobe Street in the iconic and most coveted building in Melbourne, Sapphire by the Gardens.
Position perfect
The 330sqm sub-penthouse on level 55 has panoramic views of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Carlton Gardens, Royal Exhibition Building, and the Melbourne CBD. The highly anticipated Sapphire by The Garden’s residential tower interlinks to the upcoming 5-star flagship Shangri-La hotel through a striking sky bridge on level 46.
Sapphire by the Garden’s position in Melbourne’s CBD is purely unrivalled. While this property boasts six car spaces, driving is optional: it’s also within walking distance of Melbourne’s vibrant theatre district, bustling Chinatown, Collins Street’s chic shopping precinct and wonderful wine bars.
When it comes to strolling in Melbourne’s garden sanctuaries, you’re truly spoiled here: the UNESCO World Heritage Carlton Gardens and Royal Exhibition Building are right on the development’s doorstep, with Treasury Gardens and Fitzroy Gardens just a short wander away.
Exclusive entrance
Coexisting alongside the adjoining 5 star flagship Shangri-La Hotel, Sapphire by the Gardens is a creative collaboration between award winning architects and designers, Fender Katsalidis & COX Architecture - and this elite partnership is evident right from arriving at the building.
The development includes an exclusive and dedicated private grand lobby entrance, as well as abundant resident-only resort facilities.
Positioned on level 55, this residence is accessed by its own private lobby entry - the gateway to this breathtaking home.
Views, views, views
Upon entering this residence, you find your whole body relax as you stare wondrously and wide-eyed out at the magnificent views.
This north-facing property - one of the largest in the building at more than 330sqm - offers 180-degree panoramic vistas of Melbourne’s iconic landmarks from every room.
“There are two separate living zones, a private dining room, extensive open-plan living and two full kitchens,” says our host, Colliers director Nancy Monitto.
“Three double bedrooms, with the master incorporating a separate full custom luxe walk-in robe room with dual access and bespoke ensuite.
“Unique to the residence is a dual entry access for staff, caterers or the owner’s convenience, perfect for entertaining, plus six car parks.
“There really aren't many high end genuine large format three bedroom residences available in Melbourne that are over 300 square metres.
“The sheer expanse of this property - and the fact it has endless vistas from every room - makes it truly one-of-a-kind on the market,” she said.
Complete with floor-to-ceiling glazing to maximise the scenery below, the aspect of this sub-penthouse overlooks the city’s sporting precinct including the famous MCG and extends out to Treasury Gardens.
Its elevated level on floor 55 allows you to enjoy the sun dappling on the peaks of Melbourne’s soaring towers at eye level - the picture-perfect backdrop to wind down.
Live like royalty
5501/63 La Trobe Street is pure decadence. The interior palette of this sub-penthouse is bold yet beautiful and the epitome of high-end luxury - personally designed by the home’s owner in conjunction with COX.
Dark marble benchtops and cabinetry punctuate light marble backdrops and pillars, while rich, hand-selected, solid oak herringbone flooring adds to the home’s grandeur.
We found it easy to lose each other in this home’s immense space which includes extensive, open plan living with two separate living zones plus its very own private dining room - serviced by not one, but two stunning book-end full slab Calacatta marble kitchens.
The sleeping quarters offer three spacious bedrooms with the master suite incorporating a separate, custom luxe walk-in robe with dual access, as well as a grand ensuite offering separate showering and bathing zones - complete with sculpted standalone bath - framed by panoramic views.
A separate study presents the ideal home office for those working-from-home.
Unique opportunity
As director of Colliers, Nancy is well-versed in luxurious living in Melbourne. So what makes this residence such a stand-out?
‘This is without doubt one of the finest offerings in Australia,” Nancy explains.
“It will be highly contested not just from a local audience but interstate and internationally.
“With a true world class level of living coupled with an array of amenity and the service offering of the Shang-ri la hotel, it will be an enviable lifestyle whether it be full time living or a secondary residence whilst in Melbourne.
“It has a number of unique qualities: a separate storage room, plus dual entry access to the residence which is not only convenient to the occupants, but also staff and caterers.
“In the basement, the six secure carparks are all conveniently side-by-side.
“On top of all that, the sub-penthouse is brand new and has never been occupied.
“It’s truly a one-of-a-kind opportunity.”
Trophy hold
Nancy adds this is a trophy hold for an Australian high net worth or expat, explaining this asset will attract keen interest as the luxury market in this segment is solid and property of this calibre and offering are rare that don’t come around often.
“We have transacted many trophy assets of this calibre with our clients across the eastern seaboard of Australia with no mortgages,” Nancy says.
Completed in October 2022, the majority of residents have settled and have moved in and are enjoying the lifestyle that they will soon be truly accustomed to including the infinity-edged swimming pool, resident lounges and business hub, private dining, chef’s kitchen, cinema and karaoke room fully equipped gymnasium and dedicated spa and sauna.
For further information on this luxurious sub-penthouse that’s currently on market or to get in touch with Nancy directly, you can find more information here.