Nestled in the heart of Sydney’s inner-west, this heritage home was purchased 17 years ago by Cath and Duncan Sim who moved in with four children in tow. “It was built around 1880 and when we moved in it had been owned by the same family for a long time,” says Cath, who has since presided over extensive renovations to the home.
Around 2014, the couple renovated and expanded the historic home while preserving its charm, with the help of architect Catherine Chesterman. “We wanted to retain the essence of the house while making it bigger,” says Cath who explains that the original home forms an L-shape and the new extension is nestled into its side. “We created a pod at the back – a family room connected to the kitchen and study by a bridge,” says Cath of the home that boasts four bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms.
The bridge, a symbolic link to past and present, connects the old house with the new rooms that are very much geared to modern living and bringing the outside in. “We’re outside people and the doors between the kitchen and dining room open up and bi-fold windows open to the views,” says Cath of the vista that overlooks Annandale and the Sydney city skyline.
Central to the Sims’ design ethos was a sense of adaptability too – they wanted a home that could evolve with the changing seasons. “My husband’s a sailor so we wanted a house that could ‘trim’ to suit the weather,” says Cath who had exterior blinds installed inside the home to facilitate natural ventilation throughout.
The interior design reflects Cath’s eclectic taste with its homage to mid-century hues and nostalgic accents. “I love 50’s colours like mint green and salmon,” says Cath of the kitchen cupboard fronts. A vibrant red stone serves as a playful focal point in the space while terrazzo tiles were used for texture and warmth and to create a space that is timeless and inviting.
As for furnishings, Cath opted for a sustainable approach, sourcing vintage pieces from local markets, Facebook Marketplace and inherited pieces. “Nothing’s new. Everything has been repurposed and reloved. I love breathing new life into old favourites,” says Cath.
Central to the feel of the home is the owners’ vast art collection which adorns every wall. “I’m an artist and have sold many works but I’ve only got one of my pieces up,” says Cath who explains that the rest of the pieces were created by fellow painter friends that share a deep connection with the home.
