Central Element has topped out construction at Ballamac House in Coogee, marking a key milestone in the $130-million heritage redevelopment project.
A Historic Site Reimagined
Ballamac House, located at 39 Arcadia Street was originally constructed in 1860 and had been privately held for decades. Historically serving as a hotel, boarding house, and later a private hospital, the Victorian mansion underwent several alterations over the years. In 2022, Central Element acquired the heritage-listed site with plans to convert it into a luxury residential development.
The project was approved through the Land and Environment Court in late 2023 after addressing concerns regarding the site’s heritage significance and visual impact.
Development Details: Blending Heritage and Modern Living
The Ballamac House redevelopment comprises eight three-bedroom homes. Two residences are situated within the restored original structure, while six additional residences are provided through a newly constructed four-storey building positioned discreetly behind the heritage home.
Internal areas for the residences range from 165 square metres to 241 square metres. Each apartment is designed with coastal views, including vistas to Wedding Cake Island. The two buildings are linked via a shared basement and landscaped common areas, though they retain distinct entries and architectural identities.
The interiors were curated by Mim Design, with landscaping by Jane Irwin Landscape Architecture. Car parking includes 12 resident spaces, two visitor spaces, two motorcycle spaces, and five bicycle racks.
A communal outdoor entertainment area, plunge pool, and gardens are part of the shared facilities for residents.
Construction Progress and Features
Central Element’s in-house construction arm, CE Build, led by head of construction Hayden Callaghan, is delivering the project. Structural works were completed within six months of commencing, with fitout works now underway. Completion of Ballamac House is expected by December 2025.
The project set a suburb record when the 241-square-metre penthouse sold off-the-plan for $20 million in April 2024.
Future Outlook
Ballamac House is the first of three premium residential projects Central Element plans to deliver in Sydney’s east, alongside upcoming developments at Sandridge Street and Lamrock Avenue. It is also among five completions the developer targets for 2025 across Sydney, including sites in Paddington, Neutral Bay, Drummoyne, and Chatswood.
Central Element continues to progress additional projects at Bondi Beach and Greenwich.
Published 27-Apr-2025
