Renovated period homes can offer the best of both worlds: steeped in history and character, and featuring the comfort and efficiency of modern amenities.
From upgraded Victorian terraces to updated Californian bungalows, here are some of our favourite renovated period homes in Sydney that are on the market right now.
13 Banks Street, Marouba, NSW
This transformed family home on 690 square metres connects to its coastal environment through a sense of openness created by a 3.5-metre-high skillion roof and ocean views from the second level.
The redesign was led by luxury Sydney interior designer Megan Brown of Penman Brown, balancing sophistication and functionality, with a chef’s kitchen, five bedrooms, a library, a media room, and exceptional storage.
Curated interiors, such as Zellige tiles and wall panelling, add texture throughout the home.
Outside is a Blackbutt entertainer’s deck, with a large heated pool and spa set among lush gardens.
40 Curban Street, Balgowlah Heights, NSW
This coastal bungalow has received a serious makeover.
The white-panelled facade sets the tone, unfolding into a resort-style home with stone and timber finishes. There are four extra-large bedrooms and a generous living space with a gas fireplace.
The contemporary bathrooms feature floor-to-ceiling terrazzo tiling and underfloor heating. A concealed staircase leads to an attic space that can be used for storage or as a teenager’s retreat.
A separate dining room opens via French doors onto a covered terrace with overhead heating. An additional al fresco area and a cabana/gym overlook the solar-heated pool, and the landscaped gardens further enhance the resort feel.
31 Surrey Street, Darlinghurst, NSW
“Thamara 1881” is a renovated two-level Victorian terrace in one of Darlinghurst’s most tightly held pockets. The design is elegant, featuring an original period facade, fireplaces, period wall lighting, and wainscoting.
The rear of the home introduces a modern design, showcased in the designer kitchen, which features premium appliances, including an integrated fridge and dishwasher, custom joinery, and imported marble benchtops.
A herringbone floor adds a sense of luxe to the lower level.
Upstairs, there are three bedrooms, a front balcony and a rear terrace. There is potential to add a third level.
73 Ferris Street, Annandale, NSW
Architecturally designed, this property features a bold urban aesthetic, enhanced by interior features such as polished concrete floors.
Downstairs, the airy internal atrium serves as the home’s centrepiece.
Integrating indoor and outdoor living, the expansive windows capture natural light and greenery, while glass sliders open from the living area to the outside deck with a fireplace.
Upstairs, the master bedroom’s en suite features a skylit circular bath, while downstairs, the custom wine cellar and underfloor heating in both bathrooms add a sense of luxury.
35 Cecily Street, Lilyfield, NSW
This 1920s Californian bungalow has been given a new lease on life.
The redesign balances heritage elements, including high ceilings, with contemporary features, including oak floorboards and an Esmeralda quartzite kitchen.
Designed with function and flow, the ground floor includes zoned living, while the main and secondary bedrooms are upstairs.
Outside is an all-weather entertainer’s terrace with an integrated barbecue, a landscaped garden, and a mosaic-tiled pool with an outdoor heated shower.
