06-06-2025
Jawdropping shark-inspired mansion sells for record sum
A jawdropping mansion inspired by the gills of a shark has sold for a new square metre record for Brisbane.
Local developer Max Panettiere has accepted an offer in the 'mid-teens' from a buyer recently relocated from Melbourne for his unique concrete and frameless glass home fronting the river in Norman Park.
Mr Panettiere designed the home at 52 Wendell Street himself and named it 'Gill House' because of its gill-like side panels, with the glass facade facing the river similar to the mouth or jaws of a shark.
Place Estate Agents managing director Sarah Hackett negotiated the sale of the property on a 455 sqm block for a confidential price that represents a new square metre rate record for Brisbane residential land.
'We received five offers during the campaign, with two strong buyers competing in the final stages,' Mrs Hackett said.
'Having lived in two homes on Wendell Street myself, I can truly say this is one of Brisbane's most special pockets.'
'The view never gets old, with both reaches of the river, New Farm Park, and the city skyline rising above the treetops, it's breathtaking every single day.'
It comes just weeks after Mr Panettiere settled a legal stoush over the approval of Panettiere Developments' $1.5 billion 'Little Italy' mixed-use project in Newstead.
The 1000-apartment, triple-tower project was proposed for a site next to live music venue, the Triffid — owned by Scott Hutchinson of Hutchinson Builders.
The project was approved in October last year, but an appeal was subsequently filed by Mr Hutchinson in the Planning and Environment Court that has since been 'amicably resolved and settled'.
Mr Panettiere said demolition works would now begin on the 7440 sqm site in November.
'The sale of 'Gill House' marks the beginning of something much bigger — the last step in bringing our vision of Brisbane's own Little Italy to life,' Mr Panettiere said.
'With the planning and environmental appeal now settled, we're excited to move forward with confidence. Bigger and better things are on the horizon.'
Spanning four levels, 'Gill House' is the height of luxury with polished concrete, imported marble, wave-inspired ceilings and a dramatic 6.3m-high void in the living room.
An entertaining terrace leads out from the open-plan living space, showcasing stunning views of the Brisbane River, city skyline and New Farm Park.
The master suite occupies the entire top level, with a covered balcony perfect for drinking in those sublime views. It also has an oversized dressing room and a marble-adorned ensuite with dual rainfall-style showers, and a circular standalone bath with a matching skylight above.
The basement has a stacker which can accommodate four cars, with a lift servicing all levels. An infinity pool and a private pontoon complete the offerings, making this property the ultimate Brisbane entertainer.
The house nearly didn't go ahead after Brisbane City Council initially rejected the plans, dubbing them to be in 'extreme conflict' to neighbours.
