PBD Architects acknowledges the First Nations of the Countries on which we work. Paying respect to Elders both past, present and emerging
Palmaria
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year

2022

location

Neutral Bay

client

First Land Corporation

status

In Development

project type

New Construction

first nation

Eora Nation

Nestled above the calm shores of Hayes Street Beach, Palmaria is a striking new development designed to embody a sense of calm, quiet luxury and timeless architecture—all set within Sydney’s quintessential harbourside landscape. Crafted with sensitivity to its setting, the six 3-bedroom apartments at Palmaria are a contemporary sanctuary shaped by nature, material honesty, and the enduring beauty of Sydney’s foreshore.

The overarching vision for Palmaria was clear from the outset: to create a timeless sanctuary that feels at home within its unique context—rocky ledges, native tree canopies, and sweeping views of Sydney Harbour. The goal was to blend peace and elegance, offering residents a calm, refined lifestyle while making a bold architectural statement that belongs to its place.
Design Inspired by Nature and Heritage
The design draws directly from its surroundings: mature gum and paperbark trees, sandstone outcrops stepping toward the water, and the subtle topography of the land. Even the form of the previous brick building played a role in shaping the new design. This contextual foundation informed a sensitive architectural response—one that uses natural stone and face brick to harmonise with its environment, while gently reinterpreting the old into something new.

Designing so close to the water meant walking a delicate line between built form and natural setting. One of the primary challenges was maintaining a constant dialogue with the landscape—preserving native features and ensuring the architecture did not disturb the inherent beauty of the site.

Among Palmaria’s most striking features are its layered, curved planters that softly step along the building’s form, offering both visual movement and a touch of green at every level. Intricate brick blade walls and the use of long-format, textured pink-toned bricks further enrich the façade, providing a unique rhythm and warmth that feels both modern and grounded.
AT HOME ON SYDNEY HARBOUR
Internally, the layout has been crafted to optimise natural light, cross-flow ventilation, and privacy. Large openings frame harbour views, and interiors are arranged to ensure each residence feels like a peaceful retreat. The minimalist detailing—such as ultra-thin aluminium-framed doors—blurs the line between inside and out.

The design ensures foot access to the beach, while planted buffers provide privacy and soften the visual impact of the building. Importantly, the proposal stays within the existing footprint, preserving sunlight and amenity for beachgoers and neighbours alike.

Palmaria’s architecture takes cues from the modernist influences of the original structure on the site, updating them with a refined palette and more articulated forms. The stepped layering, curved lines, and bold materiality serve as a respectful evolution of the past into a contemporary and elegant expression.

A carefully curated material palette brings Palmaria to life: richly textured face brick, long and narrow in format, paired with zinc cladding and fine aluminium detailing. These choices are more than aesthetic—they reinforce a sense of quiet sophistication and a deep connection to the earth and landscape.

Residents will enjoy exclusive garage-style parking, communal outdoor spaces framed by natural outcrops, and north-facing private terraces for a serene connection to the street. The design balances privacy with openness, offering both quiet seclusion and access to shared spaces.

From the solid front door to the warm material palette and seamless indoor-outdoor living, every detail has been considered to foster a feeling of calm, understated luxury.

Team