Eileen Bond's Luxurious Sydney Apartment Listed for $17 Million
The opulent Sydney apartment once owned by the late Eileen Bond, wife of the controversial businessman Alan Bond, has been placed on the market with a staggering price tag of $17 million. This waterfront property in Double Bay, renowned for hosting some of Australia's most influential personalities, is being sold by Eileen's children just seven months after her passing.
A Storied History and Impressive Features
Known affectionately as Red, the socialite purchased this apartment with Alan Bond in 1986 for $1.2 million. Today, it commands a price that reflects its prime location and historical significance. The eccentric four-bedroom residence boasts sweeping views of Sydney Harbour, with daughter Jody Fewster reminiscing, "That's the way she was, the life of a party."
Elliott Placks from Ray White Double Bay highlighted the property's exceptional proportions, noting, "The proportions are incredible. You've got formal lounge and dining spaces, a lift that takes you between the levels." The unique two-storey layout offers a sense of grandeur, making residents feel like rock stars, as Placks added, "Being here, you know, you would feel like a rock star. You would be putting your foot up knowing that you've made it."
Legendary Hospitality and Notable Guests
Eileen Bond was famous for her legendary hospitality, entertaining a diverse array of guests at her gatherings. Notable figures such as Barry Humphries, Bob Hawke, and Lady Susan Renouf were regular visitors, often starting with Friday lunches that extended onto her balcony overlooking Double Bay. Fewster shared, "They usually started with a Friday lunch and ended up on her balcony at Double Bay."
Her guest list was not limited to the rich and famous; she welcomed people from all walks of life. Fewster explained, "Whether she was at a restaurant and joining up with other tables or just inviting people back, literally that she'd met in the street, wherever she went, the parties followed." This inclusive approach made her home a vibrant hub of social activity.
Personal Connection and Market Appeal
Eileen spent approximately three months each year at the Double Bay apartment, visiting intermittently throughout the year, according to her daughter. The property's prestige and historical allure are expected to attract high-end buyers seeking a piece of Sydney's elite history. With its unparalleled views and rich legacy, this apartment represents a rare opportunity in the luxury real estate market.
