Day: May 29, 2020

When the current owners purchased this property in Sydney’s Balmain East, the site consisted of a very rundown 1870s sandstone cottage, alongside a poor lean-to extension. Engaging Benn + Penna Architecture to redesign the property, they set out to carefully renew the existing cottage, with a new pavilion to house the majority of the footprint. 

Benn + Penna’s overall intent was for the existing and new structures of the project to act as equals. Director Andrew Benn explains, ‘Our vision was to discover an addition that would not detract from the existing cottage, nor allow for the cottage to completely stand out on the site. I wanted the additions to complement, and harmoniously coexist with the cottage.’

In the original house, a specialist stonemason was brought on to restore the sandstone walls, while the roof and verandah were renewed to contain the main living room. ‘In a setting where there

There aren’t many opportunities to purchase one of South Yarra’s 1930s homes, so we’re already incredibly envious of whoever snaps this one up!

Beyond the beautifully maintained two-storey facade are recently renovated interiors completed by the current owner, the founder of Wash Studio. This renovation has truly elevated the home’s existing period features, while incorporating rich and sophisticated new materials. Among standout features are the Anchor Ceramics tiled surfaces, original 1800s door knobs sourced from City of New York public schools, handmade Moroccan tiles, custom bathroom vanities, and Christopher Boots lighting.

Custom, steel-framed doors link the meals area directly to the lush courtyard designed by Eckersley Garden Architecture. Residents can relax here among espalier apple trees, hanging vines and Queensland bottle trees, or entertain around the built-in barbecue. The garden also contains a separate brick home office, or fourth bedroom, with its own powder room.

The property is