This Federation home in Newtown, on Gadigal land in Sydney, is a stunning showcase of how thoughtful interior design can bring new life to a heritage property. Jacqui Koska Interior Design has masterfully blended the home’s historic charm with contemporary elegance, ensuring that every space is as functional as it is beautiful…
The original home retains all the intricate details of Federation architecture—pressed tin ceilings, stained glass windows, and decorative cornices—restored and enhanced thanks to an addition designed by Grove Architects and interiors by Jacqui Koska. With three spacious bedrooms, a formal living room (now a sophisticated piano room), and a beautifully detailed bathroom, the heritage section of the home is a warm and inviting nod to the past.
A Carrara marble stepped floor transition leads from the old into the new—a contemporary three-storey living pavilion that exudes effortless sophistication. Here, Koska has curated an open-plan kitchen, living, and dining area with a refined material palette and bespoke finishes. The dining space spills out onto a terrace via elegant white steel French doors, seamlessly connecting indoors and out, while layered textures and custom furnishings create a space that feels both luxurious and inviting. Every element, from the soft furnishings to the lighting, has been thoughtfully chosen to complement both the original Federation aesthetic and the sleek modern extension.
Upstairs, the attic has been reimagined as a serene master bedroom and ensuite, with a layout that prioritises sweeping views of the lush rooftop garden. Koska’s careful selection of materials and finishes enhances the sense of retreat, creating a tranquil oasis that feels worlds away from the urban bustle.
With its prime corner position, the home takes full advantage of natural light, cross-ventilation, and clever spatial planning. Internally, Koska’s design enhances the space encouraging every space to flow harmoniously, creating a residence that feels both cohesive and dynamic while Grove Architect’s contemporary concrete, glass, and steel elements of the pavilion contrast beautifully with the home’s original brickwork, striking a perfect balance between past and present.
This renovation is a testament to the power of design—how it can transform a space, enhance heritage features, and create a home that is not just functional but truly inspiring. Thanks to Grove Architects design and Jacqui Koska’s vision, this Federation home has been reimagined as a timeless sanctuary, seamlessly blending history with modern luxury.
