A smarter alternative to renovating - the Newtown project
Better results at a fraction of the cost.
Thoughtful joinery, improved flow and carefully planned storage transformed this dark terrace into a calm and functional forever home for a young family — without demolition.
The clients originally considered knocking down and rebuilding their Newtown terrace, unhappy with its dark, boxy layout and lack of storage. Although the house had already been extended, the living spaces still felt cluttered, disconnected and impractical for family life with two young children. This project became a great example of how thoughtful joinery and smart planning can completely transform a home without major structural work.
Design Brief
The main priorities were improving storage, circulation and natural light across the kitchen, living areas, hallway and children’s bedroom.
In the living room, the clients wanted flexible joinery that could conceal clutter while creating dedicated zones for study, music practice and family living. The kitchen needed better storage, updated appliances and a warmer feel, while maintaining access through a very tight layout. The hallway required smarter storage and a more welcoming entrance, and the children’s bedroom needed to comfortably fit two separate beds alongside storage and play space.
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Design Outcome
Kitchen
The kitchen layout was largely retained, but the opening to the living room was widened and raised to improve flow and connection between spaces. A Bora cooktop with integrated downdraft extraction allowed us to maximise overhead cabinetry, while deep drawers and a redesigned pantry improved everyday usability.
A new skylight brought much-needed natural light into the space, helping the kitchen feel taller and brighter. Crisp white cabinetry was paired with blue joinery, colour-matched to the splashback tiles, while gunmetal fixtures and a durable white Laminam benchtop added warmth and practicality.
Living Room
Large skylights transformed the once-dark living area, while custom joinery divided the room into practical family zones.
The dining area includes banquette seating with hidden storage and custom cabinetry for crockery and glassware. Opposite, concealed study nooks for the children feature fold-down desks and hidden storage to maintain a calm aesthetic when not in use.
A bespoke music cabinet became the centrepiece of the room, designed to store and display multiple instruments while also functioning as a practice space. Pocket sliding doors allow the area to be completely concealed when closed.
Open shelving, integrated lighting and a restrained palette of white cabinetry helped simplify and brighten the space. Burgundy, blue, tan and green accents were inspired by the family’s framed Sydney 2000 flags, adding warmth and personality throughout.
Kids' room
Despite the room’s awkward shape, we created space for two single beds, a compact wardrobe and additional storage. Each child now has their own display shelving, bedside table and personal space, while floral wallpaper and painted beds bring colour and character to the room.
Hallway and Laundry
The hallway was reworked to become both practical and welcoming. By reducing the size of the laundry and removing a protruding wall, we created room for shoe storage, hooks, shelving, a bench seat and concealed cabinetry. Timber flooring, improved lighting and a green-painted balustrade now give the entrance warmth and personality.
The Home Now
The finished home feels calm, functional and deeply personal to the family. Rather than demolishing or moving, the clients now see it as their forever home — proof that thoughtful design and clever storage can completely transform the way a house feels and functions.
The living room of this home, is my entry to 2026 KBDI Design Awards, in Design Spaces category.
Looking for smarter storage solutions and better flow in your home?
Sari
Photos by Sam McAdam-Cooper.
Styling by Melanie Andriolo.