It was meant to be their forever home, but Karl Stefanovic and wife Jasmine’s big dreams for their humble Castlecrag property are being crushed amid an ongoing court battle.
When the Today host lodged a $4.5 million redevelopment application to knock down the existing abode in the upmarket Sydney suburb, they didn’t expect so much red tape.
And according to a well-placed insider, Jasmine is so determined to finally get her dream digs that Karl, 49, has entrusted her, along with a team of specialist lawyers, to take up the fight and find a way that is a win-win for everyone.
Karl shared this cute picture to Instagram with the caption: “Punching overs I know. Whatever. Queensland. Heaven. ❤️”
(Credit: Instagram)Pushing ahead
“Jasmine has reportedly filed a legal challenge against the local Willoughby Council and is hoping to get it across the line for the 1960s three-bedroom property they purchased in 2021 for $3.2 million to become one of the biggest and best homes on Sydney’s north shore,” the insider reveals to Woman’s Day.
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“The grand plan is to completely demolish the existing property and transform it into a multi-level mansion with a minimum of five bedrooms, a huge swimming pool, spa and entertainment area, with a possible three-car garage for visiting family.”
“Jasmine has always wanted a huge harbourfront home, not dissimilar to what Karl had with his ex-wife [Cassandra Thorburn and their three children River, Willow and Jackson].”
“Jasmine wants both Karl’s first family, their new family and their extended families to be able to enjoy their new home.”
This Castlecrag home has never been renovated.
(Credit: McGrath Northbridge)Reno rumble
While council has yet to make its final decision on the redevelopment, for now it’s understood their application has been refused.
Apart from having to present their case next to the Land and Environment Court, adding to their woes, it now appears at least two neighbours have also voiced their concerns in writing about the project.
“The last thing Karl and Jasmine will want is to upset the neighbours – they’re hoping there’s a happy resolve they can all agree on,” says the insider.
“They plan to live here for a long time and want to know they’re welcome in the community.”
Not one to shy away from a challenge, Jasmine, 39, knows her way around a reno after overseeing their stunning $1.2 million refurbishment project at their luxury Noosa digs on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast two years ago.
Jasmine and Karl at the TV Week Logies 2023.
(Credit: Getty)With the help of her rookie interior designer sister Jade Yarbrough, the home would later feature in Vogue Living.
“Jasmine was running her high-end shoe business back then, but now that little Harper is three and Jasmine has closed her shoe shop, she has plenty of time on her hands – she has a definite style she wants, the finest French textiles and Italian tiles. And Karl just says yes to it all because he trusts her when it comes to style!”
And while they’re throwing everything at getting this proposal across the line, it can now be revealed that there are plans afoot to possibly include accommodating Karl’s three eldest children on the property.
Karl shared this gorgeous picture for Jasmine’s birthday with the caption: Happy birthday Queen. Your love shines through us all. And your quiet resilience and determination are a beauty all of their own. We are blessed to share the same air.
(Credit: Instagram)“It’s been suggested that with the housing crisis, they should consider building a wing with its own entrance for his eldest son Jackson, who like many young people is struggling to get onto the property ladder,” explains the insider, who says it’s a priority for Karl.
“Willow is heading to London for university and his youngest son River will finish his Year 12 next year. And it’s no secret Jasmine is hoping to give Harper a little brother or sister.
“At this rate Karl might have to dig a little deeper, but he wants all his kids under one roof – and plenty of guest rooms for all the in-laws!”
