Reviving Charm: Inside this clever Darlington terrace renovation

Darlington Residence by David Parsons Architect

Architect: David Parsons Architect Photographs: Katherine Lu article Size: 86 m2 (extension) Location: Darlington, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia Tags: Renovations, Terrace Renovation

Nestled within a row of classic Sydney terraces, this Darlington home was ready for a transformation. Burdened by unsympathetic additions and the wear of time, the two-storey dwelling presented a unique challenge for David Parsons at Sydney-based architectural firm, David Parsons Architect. "My client came to me with a modest terrace house that was in much need of an upgrade," David shares, "situated on a very compact site where the layout simply didn't work for modern living."

Darlington Residence
Renovations

The brief called for a new bathroom upstairs alongside the two existing bedrooms, and a ground floor kitchen that connected more effectively with the rear garden. The solution involved a delicate balance of restoration and reinvention. The outdated rear extension was removed, making way for a meticulously crafted two-storey addition, maximising the available floor area within council regulations and extending the usable living space.

Darlington Residence
Bookshelves

"Being such a small site, taking advantage of every square metre mattered," says David. This led to a reconfiguration of the upper level, creating a well-appointed bathroom while maintaining the functionality of the bedrooms, including the introduction of an integrated study nook.

Darlington Residence
Lounge Suites

Downstairs, the focus was on creating a light-filled, open living space that connected to the backyard and creating a welcoming environment to entertain and cook for family and friends.

Darlington Residence
Renovations

This seamless flow is achieved through the clever use of levels and integrated, custom-built joinery, creating a sense of openness and flow between the living, kitchen, and entertaining areas. A floating benchtop extends from the kitchen into the living room, serving as both a media unit and the first step of the finely crafted steel and timber staircase.

Darlington Residence
Staircases
Darlington Residence
Staircases
Darlington Residence
Staircases

Suspended from the upper floor, the staircase not only provides access to the new bathroom and bedrooms but also serves as a central design feature, drawing the eye upwards. Skylights bathe the upper level in natural light, expanding the sense of space and volume.

Darlington Residence
Dining Areas

The design philosophy of multifunctionality is evident throughout the home. “Space was a premium so every element had to perform multiple functions,” explains David. The dining banquette doubles as a fireplace hearth and storage, while the kitchen joinery conceals a small powder room. “Every aspect of the design and construction was carefully considered to ensure that we optimised the use of space,” says David.

Darlington Residence
Skylights
Darlington Residence
Bedrooms
Darlington Residence
Terrace Renovation
Darlington Residence
Renovations
Darlington Residence
Renovations
Darlington Residence
Basins
Darlington Residence
Kitchens

The restrained material palette is timeless and light. White walls, ceilings, joinery and marble benchtops are robust and practical. The dark timber floors and staircase add contrast and create a sense of balance whilst linking back to the existing upper level floors.

Darlington Residence
Showers
Darlington Residence
Basins

This Darlington terrace is a testament to thoughtful design, transformed from a tight and shadowy space into a light-filled, connected and open home where beauty and practicality effortlessly go hand in hand.

Darlington Residence
House Plans
Darlington Residence
House Plans
Darlington Residence
House Plans

Do you love the savvy transformation of this terrace? Get in touch with David Parsons Architect to discuss your new home or renovation!

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