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Terrace houses can be divisive—totally charming and full of heritage promise, or a truly troublesome design best left to the Victorian-era archives of our residential past life. In this case, it seems Sydney-based Renato D’Ettorre Architects have found a way to breathe new vivacity into one Surry Hills specimen, respecting its rustic past but also making way for a brave, modern future.

The uncommonly large, L-shape heritage-listed Italianate-style property includes a three-storey street-facing terrace, a courtyard, and historic sandstone stables towards the back. Inside the terrace, Renato and his team transformed a dull 1990s office fit-out into a fresh light-filled family home fit for the 21st century.

Key historic details were preserved and restored—like the wooden staircase with white balustrade, and a number of glass panelled doors. New features were then added in: of-the-most golden brass cabinetry for the kitchen, bathrooms clad in pristine Carrara marble, and herringbone wood flooring. A new perforated white powder-coated steel stairway leads to a rooftop garden on top of the home’s new concrete carport. Doorways throughout have been opened out into archways to reference traditional Tuscan or Sicilian villas.

Across the courtyard, the sandstone stables were reimagined as a guesthouse. With low heritage significance, it was here where the most dramatic design intervention was able to take place. The original structure was extended to create a double-height living space, a stunning arched brick ceiling was inserted, as well as a mezzanine-level bedroom. On the second floor is a conservatory with a double glazed roof. And last but not least, to the rear of the stables is a lap pool and outdoor dining area.

[Images courtesy of Renato D’Ettorre Architects. Photography by Simone Bossi.]

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