A Nest Above
A careful reworking of a 19th-century terrace transforms the home into a highly functional, light-filled environment tailored to contemporary family life.
Location: Wangal Country - Balmain, NSW
Completed: 2026
Builder: CBI Construction
Structural: Fred Barros Engineering
Stormwater: Quantum Engineers
Interiors: Marker
Photography: Martin Siegner
The project responds to a growing family navigating the demands of dual work-from-home routines, seeking organisation, flexibility, and moments of retreat within a compact footprint. Existing spaces are re-planned to improve flow and usability, while key interventions introduce new wet areas, bedrooms, and integrated storage to support daily rhythms.
Previously underutilised, the attic is reclaimed as a private parents’ domain — conceived as a quiet ‘nest’ elevated above the activity of the home. The master suite is positioned to capture long views, creating a space that can be used for both rest and relaxation, and offering a sense of escape within the busy, inner-city suburb.
Previously underutilised, the attic is reclaimed as a private parents’ domain — conceived as a quiet ‘nest’ elevated above the activity of the home. The master suite is positioned to capture long views, creating a space that can be used for both rest and relaxation, and offering a sense of escape within the busy, inner-city suburb.
Natural light and airflow are improved throughout the home. New skylights and openings bring daylight deeper into the plan, while screens and glazing help control brightness and privacy. These changes make the house feel more comfortable and connected to the time of day.
Materially, the project draws from the existing heritage palette — brick, timber, and stone — paired with soft whites to create a calm, cohesive backdrop. These are offset with precise insertions of colour and texture, lending warmth and personality without overwhelming the original character.
Materially, the project draws from the existing heritage palette — brick, timber, and stone — paired with soft whites to create a calm, cohesive backdrop. These are offset with precise insertions of colour and texture, lending warmth and personality without overwhelming the original character.