Tucked into the bustling heart of Surry Hills, this once-derelict terrace has been reimagined as a calm and luminous retreat for a couple and their dog, Cooper. The brief called for a comfortable 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom home with a study — but above all, a generous sense of natural light and connection to the outdoors. Affectionately referred to by the clients as Cooper’s Terrace, the project is a layered response to its urban context, balancing restraint with spatial generosity.

Rather than rebuilding to the original rear boundary, we stripped away previous additions and returned the footprint to the original bones of the terrace. In their place, we added a light-filled breezeway infill — distinct in architectural language from the existing structure — which now forms a dining space that feels almost external, defined by exposed original brickwork, a raised ceiling, generous skylights and an oversized steel pivot door that opens onto the garden. By building less, we were able to prioritise outdoor space — a rare luxury in the inner city — and repurpose the original internal fireplace as an external one. The two front rooms were restored as adjoining sitting areas with a refined, almost hotel-like atmosphere, while one retains the flexibility to become a fourth bedroom if ever required.

Reconciling circulation was key to the project’s success. An oversized stair landing doubles as a study, while the stair to the attic was carefully detailed with steel balustrading and open risers to draw light down from above. The converted attic capitalises on sweeping city views, with original arched dormer windows uncovered and restored during the build. The material palette is intentionally light and minimal, focusing on texture over colour: oak floors, exposed brick, white walls, and pale grey joinery create a quiet, composed retreat from the bustle beyond.

More images coming soon.