Erskineville I

A Creative Inner-City Transformation: From Heritage to Modern Living
‍

Nestled in the heart of Erskineville, a lively and creatively charged part of Sydney, this old terrace house is undergoing an exciting transformation. With the Development Application approved by the City of Sydney, and construction now underway, the project promises to breathe new life into a narrow, heritage-listed site that sits on the corner of two bustling streets. The result will be a unique, contemporary home designed for a young, creative couple and their children.

The challenge was to modernise the space while respecting its heritage and fitting seamlessly into the charm of the surrounding conservation area. Designed by hecticrAt architects, this project has been a true collaboration between the architects and the clients, who were keen to make the most of their home’s inner-city location without compromising on style or functionality.

The design vision centres on blending old and new. The rear of the house has been redesigned to replace a dated lean-to with a modern ground floor addition that speaks to both the character of the home and the energy of the neighbourhood. This addition extends into a split-level open-plan living, dining, and kitchen area, which is connected to the original front part of the house by a striking concrete staircase – an architectural statement that bridges past and present.

Upstairs, a first-floor addition follows the alignment of the row of terraces, maintaining harmony with the streetscape but featuring its own modern identity. An attic addition, also approved, will further maximise space and light.

Throughout the home, design features reflect a deep commitment to both aesthetics and practicality. Arched glazed doors open out to the backyard, flooding the space with natural light. Concrete floors and ceilings provide a raw yet refined touch, while breezeblock boundary walls and high-level windows with privacy screens invite daylight from the north, enhancing the feeling of openness while ensuring privacy from the street.

One of the most charming elements of the design is the sloping sky-void in the downstairs bathroom, offering glimpses of the sky above and allowing much-needed daylight into the space. Other delightful details, such as curved walls and ceilings, continue the design’s playful yet elegant approach.

With meticulous attention to detail in the planning and documentation, this project is a labour of love, and we’re excited to see how this creative transformation will unfold. It’s a home that not only embraces its heritage but also reflects the vibrant energy of its owners and their urban surroundings.