Arnott Residence, Woollahra
This Woollahra project involved the extensive renovation of a 70s era townhouse, thoughtfully reimagined across three levels to create a warm, welcoming and highly accessible home for an elderly couple seeking a sense of retreat within one of Sydney’s more vibrant urban neighbourhoods.
At the heart of the design was a desire to transform the existing residence into a calm and restorative environment, balancing functionality with a refined architectural language. Through a series of carefully considered structural interventions, internal walls were selectively removed to open the original floor plan, improve circulation and allow natural light to penetrate deep into the home. These changes not only enhanced the spatial flow but fundamentally altered the character of the house, creating a greater sense of openness and connection between spaces.
A material palette of timber and light-toned Quartzite stone was employed throughout, bringing warmth, texture and a timeless quality to the interiors. Sculpted ceiling forms subtly manipulate natural light as it moves through the home, creating moments of softness and visual interest while reinforcing a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.
Intricately detailed joinery plays a central role in the project, carefully crafted to define spaces without disrupting their connection. Rather than acting as simple storage elements, these bespoke interventions create engaging thresholds between rooms, establishing rhythm, depth and a sense of discovery throughout the interior. The joinery contributes significantly to the home's feeling of warmth and flow, guiding movement while maintaining visual continuity.
An architectural focus on clean lines, precision and restraint is evident throughout the project. The execution of detail and craftsmanship was fundamental to the design approach, with every junction, material transition and built-in element meticulously resolved. This commitment to quality elevates the everyday experience of the home, creating spaces that feel both considered and effortless.
Every aspect of the design, from storage solutions to spatial organisation, was carefully tailored to support the clients’ lifestyle while ensuring long-term comfort and accessibility. The result is a home that feels inherently welcoming, a place that invites visitors to linger, relax and unwind. Defined by its warmth, natural light and carefully curated materiality, the project achieves a remarkable sense of calm, offering its owners a sanctuary from the pace and activity of the surrounding city.
Built by: Central Projects
Heritage Consultant: Zoltan Kovacs Architect
Structural Engineer: Hyten
Photos by: Mather Beere Architecture
