Imagine trading a sprawling family estate for a luxurious penthouse in the heart of Sydney. That’s exactly what media power couple Lisa Wilkinson and Peter FitzSimons have done, sparking curiosity and a bit of envy among property enthusiasts. But here’s where it gets intriguing: after parting ways with their long-time Cremorne mansion, the duo has downsized to a stunning four-bedroom penthouse in Mosman, a move that’s as bold as it is practical. And this is the part most people miss—it’s not just about the space; it’s about the lifestyle shift from maintaining a large property to enjoying a low-maintenance, high-luxury abode.
The penthouse, secured in February for a reported mid-teen multimillion-dollar price, sits atop a sandstone building constructed in 1914, blending historic charm with modern opulence. Think floor-to-ceiling glass, a sleek white kitchen, and pendant lighting—all crowned by a rooftop featuring a teppanyaki barbecue and a bathtub with breathtaking views of Mosman Bay, the eastern suburbs, and the CBD. Controversially, some might argue that downsizing from a heritage home to a penthouse is a step backward, but is it really? For Wilkinson and FitzSimons, it seems to be a deliberate choice toward simplicity and elegance.
This move comes on the heels of selling their Cremorne mansion, which passed in at $24.5 million at a private auction in September. While the exact sale price remains under wraps until settlement, local sources suggest the couple is pleased with the outcome. But here’s a thought-provoking question: In a city where property prices are sky-high, does downsizing to a penthouse represent a smarter investment, or is it a missed opportunity to hold onto a larger, more traditional asset?
The penthouse was reportedly sold through Bo Zhang of Atlas Lower North Shore, though neither Wilkinson nor FitzSimons were available for comment. Their former Cremorne home, a Federation-style landmark set on 3,214 square meters and renovated by heritage architect Clive Lucas, was listed with a $23 million price guide. And this is the part most people miss: the couple originally purchased the property in 1998 for just $2.95 million, highlighting the staggering growth in Sydney’s property market over the past two decades.
As the dust settles on this high-profile property swap, one thing is clear: Wilkinson and FitzSimons are embracing a new chapter in their lives, trading garden maintenance for rooftop sunsets. What do you think—is downsizing to a penthouse a savvy move or a step away from tradition? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
