The allure of inner-city terraces lies in their unique narrative, says Sam Eggleton. It’s an attraction that led him to this Darlinghurst cottage with its own story to tell.

Nestled on the cusp of Sydney CBD and built around 1849, this dwelling has witnessed the shifting tides of time. Initially serving as the residence for Darlinghurst gaol wardens, it later played a role in the area’s red light district. For his own chapter, Sam embarked on a personal journey to infuse new vitality within its historic walls.

 

What began as a small-scale glow-up during the 2021 Covid lockdowns soon transformed into a substantial renovation. Over nine weeks, Sam poured his heart into the rebuild, all the while maintaining a delicate balance between preserving history and introducing contemporary finesse.

 

 

 

The challenge was to honour the past while embracing modernity, within the confines of heritage guidelines. This approach led to uncovering hidden treasures, including original sandstone elements and covered-over fireplaces.

“A key aspect to the project was the incorporation of traditional elements in a contemporary manner,” Sam says. “The design avoids fleeting trends, favouring timeless materials used throughout history.”

Stage two saw Sam shift the focus upstairs, where he tastefully introduced ornate beams and cathedral ceilings, a natural progression of the style already defined in the oak chevron floors and handcrafted Moroccan tiles. By day the home is bright with skylights and a north aspect, while strategic lighting creates a serene retreat after hours.

 

While the frontage is wide for a city row home, the compact footprint meant every nook could be meticulously integrated with a European laundry, integrated fridges and strategic storage, all maximising functionality and potential without compromising on the overall visuals. With the design reflecting a passion for hosting, both the indoors outdoors are dedicated to dining, a pale eucalypt table in the kitchen plus outdoor chairs amidst lush greenery.

 

 

 

Outside, the property mirrors classic Old World cottages, with a touch of Australian essence in its palette. The façade retains its original charm, anchored by modern suggestions in the sage green highlights.

“The overall aesthetic conveys elements of its gaoler’s accommodation history in high-end way,” Sam says. “The courtyard features Mediterranean-inspired elements like olive trees, vines, and a striped umbrella, evoking an Italian ambiance. We’ve curated a modern, upscale environment from various European influences.”

 

From inception as a worker’s home to its last active red-light period just before Sam, the home stands as an illustration of the neighbourhood’s evolution. As this vibrant hub continues to buzz, and the members-only Soho House takes shape with its upcoming restaurant and bar, gym, cabaret facilities and a rooftop pool, the time are always changing here.

View: 88 Burton Street, Darlinghurst