Opening this month in Hobart, The Finish Line Penthouse Apartments offer a new standard in luxury for the Tasmanian capital. Located in the historic district of Battery Point, a short stroll from Salamanca Place, The Finish Line comprises two striking penthouse apartments overlooking the Derwent River.
On ode to the iconic Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race – a 630 nautical mile duel across the notorious seas of Bass Strait – the apartments were developed by sailing enthusiasts Pip and Mike Cooper and are aptly named for their position overlooking the race’s famous finish line.
Housed within a heritage listed building acquired by the Coopers in 2018, the site was originally part of the Huon Fruit Growing Company’s cannery and factory, built in 1929. The apartments were conceived in partnership with Philp Lighton and Associates Architects, whose goal was to respectfully restore the building while encompassing the opportunistic views of the spectacular River Derwent.
Inside, Tasmanian interior designer Georgina Freeman drew inspiration from a cross section of nautical references to created two luxurious, yet different apartments – the two-bedroom ‘Sydney’ and three-bedroom ‘Hobart’.
Sydney
Floor-to-ceiling windows give an inside/outside energy to the expansive living room of the two-bedroom Sydney apartment. A double-sided fireplace clad in brushed brass similarly emphasises the connection, creating warmth inside and a cosy nook outside – perfect for a soak in Sydney’s luscious, black-fluted outside bathtub.
Inside, dark wood joinery is juxtaposed with a spectrum of sea greens and brushed brass details. Meanwhile, floor-to-ceiling Calacatta Jade Marble adds texture and opulence to the ensuite bathrooms. Here, guests can enjoy luxurious rainwater showers while they take in the panoramic views of the Derwent River. Each ensuite opens to a large light-filled bedroom complete with retracting windows and private deck.
Hobart
With its stainless steel kitchen, 160sqm of living space, and private heated pool and spa, the three-bedroom ‘Hobart’ offers a level of luxury akin to the super-yachts of the Mediterranean from which it’s inspired. Honouring the majesty of the ocean and the super vessels that sail it, the Hobart features Palazzo Stone, Zanzibar blue/grey marble, and stainless steel counters, warmed with teak cabinetry and, in the main ensuite, an exquisite hand-crafted teak bath. Custom mid-century light fittings create ambiance in the expansive 192sqm footprint, which includes 32sqm of deck. The Hobart also includes a laundry and butler’s pantry.
Outside, the tribute to the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race continues with a dramatic photo of Richard Bennett’s iconic Shotgun sailing off Tasman Island in the 1984 race set as a feature wall above the pool. In the lightbox near the lift, guests will find an image of the yacht Tasmania, winner of the 1994 race and the only Tasmanian boat to ever claim the title. Michael Cooper, co-founder of the penthouses, was a member of the crew on “Tasmania” and can be seen trimming the main sail in this image.
Co-owner and developer, Pip Cooper comments: “We purchased the building in 2018 primarily due to its amazing river frontage and close proximity to Salamanca and Hobart’s waterfront precinct. The location of the apartments really allow guests to feel that connection with water. Sailing and the ocean have always played an important part in our lives, so drawing on nautical inspiration for the fitout was a natural alignment.”
She adds: “To be able to restore a piece of Hobart’s history in the process was an added bonus. Nearly 100 years after the site was built, we hope it’s been respectfully transformed into a place that people can visit to appreciate the skill of the sailors and the beauty of Hobart for many years to come.”
In addition to their expansive views of the Derwent River, The Finish Line Penthouse Apartments offer guests a bottle of Tasmanian sparkling and cheese board on arrival, and an in-apartment beverage selection sourced from exceptional local gin, cheese, and wine makers. Private chefs, drivers and bespoke experiences can be arranged on request.
Rates for the apartments start from $800 per night. The Finish Line Apartments are now available for bookings.
