Surry Hills terrace

The renovation of a tiny Sydney inner city terrace, transforms what previously was a dark and introverted home into one of abundant natural light and generously proportioned spaces. A delicately detailed steel stair rises through the middle of the building and guides natural light from a large skylight above into the centre of the house. A wall of white mosaic tiles lines the back wall of the courtyard, reflecting northern light back into both the garden and rear kitchen space.

The additions designed by Benn & Penna Architecture include new bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchen, courtyard and living spaces. The design locates the new bedroom and bathrooms spaces above an open-plan living area that opens onto intimate garden spaces at either end of the property.

The pared back and understated interior is designed to foreground the rich texture of local brickwork surrounding the site.

Photos © Tom Ferguson