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Treasured memories captured in Sydney’s northwest

Katrina Creer

Katrina Creer

Hills Shire Times
464 Pennant Hills Rd Pennant Hills

This home has been used as a photographic studio and gallery for almost three decades

This charming residence has played a part in capturing happy memories for thousands of Hills families.

The double-storey house has been used as a studio and gallery by renowned portrait photographer David Oliver for almost three decades.

The five-bedroom property at 464 Pennant Hills Rd, which has just been listed for sale, is believed to date back to the 1930s. A second floor which houses the studio was added in the early ’90s.

464 Pennant Hills Rd Pennant Hills

The property is located opposite Mount St Benedict’s Girls High School

Oliver, who now mentors other photographers as well as running his own business, said he is feeling emotional about the sale.

“The studio is not used as much any more as we mostly go out on location, so we therefore decided to sell but part of me would love to keep it,’’ Mr Oliver said.

“We have lots of memories from naughty children to politicians being photographed. We have had a broad spectrum of clients across the board.’’

David Oliver and daughter Clare

David Oliver and daughter Clare, who now works in the family business

It is estimated Oliver has captured on film more than 3,000 weddings and 8,000 portraits on film over the years.

He has also conducted a number of photo shoots in the Cumberland State Forest and Wahroonga Park as well as working in New York, London, Ireland, Scotland, Singapore and New Zealand.

David Oliver

It is estimated Oliver has captured 8,000 portraits

“We will continue to work in Sydney and run workshops from our little farm in the Hunter Valley – I’m very happy to share my knowledge, it is part of giving back to the industry,” Oliver said.

The 705sq m property, just across the road from Mount St Benedicts College, is used as a commercial premises only but is also suitable as residential or as a combined home and office.

The interior has many character features such as high ceilings, timber floors and detailed cornices. It also has a modern stone kitchen and two separate living areas. There is a private courtyard and double garage with side access.

“For our family it’s been an incredible place to run our business, being a central hub for people across Sydney,’’ Oliver’s wife Cathy, who also works in the photography business, said.

464 Pennant Hills Rd Pennant Hills

Inside the gallery at Pennant Hills

“It’s also been our home away from home. To finish up a meeting, step through to the kitchen and pick up wine and cheese and then step into the back garden and play with the children is an experience that is truly unique.

“It allowed us to mix our home and work life perfectly.”

464 Pennant Hills Rd Pennant Hills

The gallery, which could be used as a residential property, retains many character features

The property, which is well known to motorists travelling along Pennant Hills Rd because of its prominent location, has been listed for sale through agents Keith Soames and Josh Saliba.

“It is really an iconic home in the area, we have had lots of interest because it is so unique – it is a great location with good exposure but it works really well as a residential property being close to schools and transport,’’ Mr Saliba said.

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