Inner City Terrace House
Inner City Terrace House
Set within the energy of inner-city Redfern, this terrace was thoughtfully reimagined as a calm and welcoming retreat for a young family. A home designed to feel warm, functional, and easy to live in, offering a sense of balance to the pace just beyond its walls.
Our role focused on interior design, furnishing and styling, working within the existing architectural envelope to transform the home without unnecessary structural change. Rather than overcomplicating the design, the approach centred on refining what was already there, updating finishes, improving functionality, and layering in warmth to support modern family living.
The renovation involved a full internal refresh, removing existing joinery, tiles, painting, furniture, and lighting. While retaining the core structure and staircase. This allowed us to introduce new materials and considered detailing that elevate the home, while remaining mindful of budget and long-term value for the clients as they plan for a future sale.
The living, dining and kitchen areas were designed as one connected and cohesive zone. A custom banquette anchors the dining space, providing both additional storage and a sense of softness. This connects seamlessly to the kitchen through a cleverly integrated cloak cupboard, balancing practicality with clean, refined detailing. A circular dining table softens the geometry of the room and improves flow, while woven lighting introduces a tactile, human element that brings warmth and character.
Throughout the home, furniture and styling were selected to feel effortless, durable, and family-friendly. Pieces that can withstand daily life, from busy mornings to endless playdates. A natural, pared-back palette is layered with subtle moments of personality, creating continuity without feeling overly styled or precious.
The primary bedroom marked the beginning of our journey with the clients. Initially engaged to redesign this one space, the brief quickly evolved as we uncovered the opportunity to improve both function and flow across the home.
The room itself was generous in size but lacked cohesion and usable storage. Our response was to completely rework the layout, introducing floor-to-ceiling his and hers wardrobes, and a dedicated study zone for working from home. A custom, gently curved bedhead was designed to maximise circulation within the narrow footprint, creating a sense of softness while enhancing spatial flow.
One of the most transformative elements was the reimagining of the underutilised balcony. By enclosing this space and replacing the existing doors with a half-height wall and louvre windows, we were able to introduce natural light, privacy, and additional storage. A full-width window seat creates a quiet retreat, now one of the most loved spaces in the home, offering a moment of pause within busy family life.
Natural light was a key driver throughout the design. Sheer window treatments, tonal finishes, and low-profile furniture allow light to move freely, creating spaces that feel open, calm, and settled throughout the day.
The result is a home that feels cohesive, comfortable, and considered. Elevated through thoughtful design decisions, without exceeding what was necessary.
This project reflects our approach to family-focused renovations: working with what exists, making smart, intentional updates, and creating beautiful, liveable homes that balance design, function, and budget.
Interior Design, Furnishing & Styling: SJS Interior Design
Construction: Tranquil Projects
Joinery: ACA Joinery
Lighting: La Lounge Lighting
Photography: Small Things Studio