Woollahra Terraces
A peaceful sanctuary blending heritage preservation with contemporary design
Woollahra Terraces is a unique project where three adjacent heritage terraces were acquired and transformed into a single connected residence over a decade. The design, by Renato D’Ettorre Architects, preserves the essence of the historic homes while integrating them into one harmonious space. Located among other period row homes in inner Sydney, the project respects the area’s heritage preservation ethos. D’Ettorre describes the result as “a haven of peace and tranquillity,” blending historical preservation with contemporary design principles.
Past Present Balance
The outer shells remain painted in unison, with internal brick and plaster walls kept as reminders of past chapters. “New and old walls are both white – the contrast is in texture: old rough, new smooth,” says Renato. A balance of preservation and insertion emerges behind the Victorian-era façade. Quiet detailing and focused craft bridge old and new. “This home is built for longevity, achieving more with less,” Renato explains. Inspired by Europe’s fusion of eras, the project reflects a Milanese sensitivity in materials and spatial purity. The clients, a young family who appreciate contemporary design, shared this vision, allowing the home’s full potential to be realised.
A Consistent Material Base
A consistent material base binds the new and old zones across levels. Behind the united façades, a basement level creates a sunken living space, an in‑ground pool and underground water tanks. Inspired by natural materials and inherent colours, the spaces offer tactile durability, softness and unexpected warmth. Light penetrates deep into the home: the upper levels are white and bright, while the introspective basement receives natural light through a circular skylight, a window into the pool, and a perforated metal walkway that casts patterned light onto a soft grey concrete wall, producing a mysterious, internalised atmosphere.
Woollahra Sustainable Future
Woollahra Terraces turns focus inward, connecting to nature while integrated systems reduce energy reliance for future chapters. Delicate and robust elements unite around longevity. The result is an impressive, future‑focused home by Renato D’Ettorre Architects.
