Who would have thought such tranquility and beauty could be so close to the Sydney CBD?
It may be one of Sydney’s smallest suburbs, but Kirribilli sure punches above its weight when it comes to liveability – so says Domain’s chief economist, Dr Andrew Wilson.
Dr Wilson explains it’s the village-like feel of this high-density neighbourhood, as well as its close proximity to the CBD and harbour, that sets Kirribilli apart from other suburbs. In the past 12 months, the median price for a unit in Kirribilli has gone up 14.9 per cent to $1.16 million, while the median price for an apartment in Milsons Point has gone up a whopping 37.8 per cent to $1.9 million.
“Sydney is identifiable for its water views and residents will reach for the sky to get those premium views. We are seeing more and more Sydneysiders embracing higher-density living because it’s more compatible with getting that adjacency to the water,” says Dr Wilson.
With Sydney Harbour at the geographical heart of the suburb residents can watch world-class events unfold on their doorstep. Photo: Aqualand
“Kirribilli has a lot going for it. But firstly, it’s an inner-city location that has cache and prestige. It ticks a lot of boxes. What we have seen in the last year is a lift in demand for prestige apartments in Sydney, and because most of those key locations are so tightly held, anything with a water view comes at a premium.”
Writer Aleney de Winter has called Kirribilli home for the past 15 years and says what she loves most about the inner-city suburb is the sense of community. She describes Kirribilli as a creative community and says many residents are employed in the media and the arts.
“What’s not to love about this area? I love that it’s a suburb that has a real sense of community. Even though we get a lot of transient visitors, we all know each other’s names,” says de Winter, who shares her apartment with her partner and two children.
A dog plays in the harbour adjoining Milson Park in Kirribilli. Photo: Anna Kucera
De Winter asserts that despite its exclusivity, the neighbourhood is unmistakably urban and wins points for its proximity to “absolutely everything”. She says having Sydney Harbour at the geographical heart of the suburb means she can watch world-class events unfold on her doorstep.
“You can live without a car here because everything is in walking distance. You can walk to the city, you can train to anywhere. We can see the lights of Vivid from our lounge room and have a front row seat for the fireworks. There’s always something going on outside our window.”
De Winter believes the area also appeals to creative types because it is just a short walk away from world-class galleries, museums and Sydney Opera House.
As well as easy access to the water, Kirribilli locals also have Milson Park to relax in. Photo: Anna Kucera
“The three selling points are the view, the great community and the amenity of living here,” she says.
Rebecca Kerswell chose to open her Coco Chocolate storefront in Kirribilli six years ago because of the suburb’s exclusivity, proximity to commuter services and major cultural attractions, and its walkable shopping strips. She says the location has been fantastic because the local demographic knows about food and is “looking for the real deal”.
“As both a local and a shop owner, Kirribilli has a wonderful community feel. I have two children under 10 and I take them down to Wendy Whiteley’s garden to paint, we walk along the boardwalk, we are near the heart of the city yet we feel like we are in a village.”
It’s the village-like feel and close proximity to the CBD and harbour that sets Kirribilli apart from other suburbs, according to Dr Andrew Wilson. Photo: Aqualand
Kerswell says because the area doesn’t have a major supermarket chain, boutique businesses such as “the butcher, the baker, the chocolate maker” are all thriving, and the micro neighbourhood is now surrounded with wonderful restaurants and small bars as well.
“I love Garfish for seafood, the Kirribilli Hotel is also wonderful. There’s Kirribilli Club, which is incredible value for families and then you’ve got the views over the water there,” she says.
Alex Adams, Head of Sales and Marketing for property company Aqualand, says Kirribilli’s convenience to the CBD and Harbour has been the impetus for recent growth in the area, which is why Aqualand is building their latest project, Blue, in neighbouring Lavender Bay.
Jacaranda trees at Milsons Park. Photo: James Brickwood
Adams agrees that spectacular natural scenery and stunning views of the city skyline are key attributes of the area.
“Kirribilli and Milsons Point have access to good schools and employment hubs, proximity to local public transport, water views, city views and are close to some fantastic beaches,” he says.
Adams points out that Kirribilli came in at number four in Domain‘s Liveable Sydney 2016 study, alongside Milsons Point at number two, and Lavender Bay, which topped the list. He says having the three neighbouring suburbs all lauded for their liveability makes the precinct a popular choice for people working nearby.
Garfish in Kirribilli is a popular dining place for locals. Photo: Louie Douvis
“Firstly, the proximity to the city is really convenient. Then you have the fact that there is an intimate dining scene, cafe strips, Kirribilli Markets, recreational areas, Ensemble Theatre and small bars all on your doorstep. That’s not something you find in other suburbs,” says Adams.
“This location is tightly held for a reason. You could live in this postcode without a car. You can walk to the ferry, you can walk along the harbour foreshore, you can cycle to work in the CBD or walk four minutes to a train station.”