Fashion Designer Camilla Franks Purchases $12.5m Bondi Estate
Fashion designer Camilla Franks, known for her iconic kaftans, has made headlines with her recent purchase of a stunning $12.5 million Arts and Crafts-style home in Bondi. The property, named Gnal-Loa, sits on Bondi’s largest block and offers Franks a rare and significant estate on 1015sqm.
Franks, who grew up in Bondi, acquired the property with the assistance of buyer’s agent Sam Green of Advantage Buyer’s Agents. Green expressed that the home was a perfect match for Franks, citing its history and expansive land size as standout features.
This purchase comes on the heels of a notable business development for Franks, as billionaires Andrew and Nicola Forrest recently acquired a minority shareholding in her fashion label, Camilla Australia, which she established in 2004.
The grand sandstone Federation estate, currently featuring four bedrooms and three bathrooms with parking for three cars, has plans in place for a new parent’s wing, a guest house, a pool, and an outdoor entertainment area. The property is owned by Ben Scott, founding partner of Barrenjoey investment bank, and his wife, Pensiri, who purchased it for $10.1 million in 2021.
Franks shared her excitement about the new chapter this property represents for herself and her daughter, Luna, as they prepare to move into their new home in Bondi. While bidding farewell to her current dwelling in Woollahra, Franks looks forward to renovating and creating new memories in the historic 1900s abode.
Designed by Tamsin Johnson, the interiors of the property boast northerly views of the ocean, adding to its allure as one of the few remaining early 1900s manors in Bondi. With a convenient automatic gated drive and ample parking space, the estate offers polished hardwood floors, high ceilings, and luxurious amenities.
While initial expectations for the sale price were above $13 million, the property ultimately sold for $12.5 million, a testament to its timeless charm and desirability in the Bondi real estate market. With plans for future renovations and enhancements, Franks is poised to make her mark on this historic and prestigious property.
