An extensive renovation of a 1930s harbourside home in Sydney has transformed the property into a refined and contemporary residence while preserving its classic charm. The project, led by American-born interior designer Thomas Hamel and his team, was commissioned by a British couple who have lived in Australia for more than two decades.
Initially engaged to address damp issues in a rumpus room, Hamel’s involvement expanded as the clients expressed interest in broader changes throughout the house. The renovation ultimately reimagined key areas, balancing respect for the original architectural footprint with modern functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Drawing inspiration from a variety of sources—including London members’ clubs, late 1970s disco culture, and Californian bungalow styles—Hamel tailored the design to reflect both the clients’ personal tastes and their British heritage. The color scheme and materials incorporated elements from the family’s art collection, furniture, and even the hues of their tabby cats, integrating burnt orange, brown, white, and green into the palette.
The project retained and enhanced original features, such as cornicing and skirting boards, which were given a subtle Georgian-style refinement to soften the interiors. Honey-toned chevron flooring was introduced to create an airy, apartment-like atmosphere. While plans to update the balustrade were considered, the original design was preserved to maintain the house’s character. Timber windows were replaced with larger, steel-framed floor-to-ceiling installations, optimizing views of the surrounding gardens and Sydney Harbour.
A notable architectural intervention was the removal of walls separating the family and formal living rooms, replaced with steel and glass bookcase dividers that allow for natural light flow while maintaining distinct zones. The kitchen, incorporated into this open living space, was designed with utilitarian elegance, featuring Copacabana stone surfaces and a custom draped metal pendant light over the island. Ample storage and a separate pantry were included to accommodate the family’s everyday needs.
The pool was relocated from an upper level to the lower garden, creating a serene water view from the kitchen and enhancing the home’s connection to its outdoor surroundings. Two entry points—to the street and a newly formed courtyard—offer varied access to the living areas, adding to the spatial dynamics.
Designed for a family of five, the renovation provided personalized spaces for each member. The children’s bedrooms were expanded or relocated to better suit their lifestyles, one gaining an ensuite and dressing area. The study, once offering prime harbour views, was converted into a luxurious bathroom and dressing room featuring a dedicated hair and makeup area.
The interiors display a blend of mid-century furniture, hand-knotted Nepalese rugs, contemporary lighting, and modern Australian art. The home features a mix of tactile materials including bronze, sheepskin, velvet, silk, quartzite, and Carrara marble. Bold design choices such as a deep blue powder room and a stairwell carpet adorned with tiger motifs add a playful edge to the sophisticated environment.
Hamel describes the outcome as a “happy house” that reflects the personalities of its occupants. Durable fabrics and materials were selected to withstand everyday use, accommodating family life and pets without sacrificing style. The renovation underscores a thoughtful layering of design elements and a cohesive flow throughout the multi-level home, fulfilling the clients’ desire for comfort and confidence in every room.