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Existing​
 

Set within Paddington’s historic streetscape, the original dwelling lacked the architectural character and spatial qualities typically associated with the surrounding terrace homes. Although located within a Heritage Conservation Area, the existing structure held no individual heritage significance, presenting a rare opportunity to reimagine the site entirely.

Rather than replicate the past, the design response sought to reinterpret the traditional Paddington terrace through a contemporary lens — creating a home that feels deeply connected to its context while embracing modern patterns of living. The result is a refined urban residence that balances light, privacy, material warmth, and sustainability within a dense inner-city setting.

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Client Brief
 

The clients envisioned a contemporary terrace home defined by natural light, openness, and strong connections to landscape. The brief called for generous glazing, open-plan living spaces, integrated storage, and seamless indoor-outdoor living, while maximising the potential of the narrow urban site.

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Sustainability and long-term liveability were central to the project, alongside the inclusion of discreet smart home technologies, energy-efficient design principles, and integrated on-site parking — a rarity within the tightly held Paddington streetscape.

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Design Response

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Positioned between two substantial Victorian terraces, the project required a careful balance between contextual sensitivity and contemporary architectural expression. The challenge was to create a modern urban home that respected the rhythm and scale of the historic streetscape while introducing a lighter, more open way of living.

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The new three-level terrace, incorporating a basement and double garage, draws subtle reference from the proportions and cadence of traditional Paddington terraces without inheriting the dark and enclosed qualities often associated with older inner-city homes. Instead, the design prioritises light, airflow, and spatial generosity.

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At the centre of the home, an internal garden courtyard becomes both a visual and environmental anchor, drawing natural light deep into the interior and creating a calm connection to landscape throughout the day. This passive design approach improves thermal comfort year-round — allowing winter sun to naturally warm the home while promoting cross ventilation during the warmer months.

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A restrained palette of natural and tactile materials reinforces the home’s sense of warmth and permanence, while carefully framed openings balance privacy with expansive outlooks. The inclusion of a double garage not only resolves the practical challenges of inner-city parking, but significantly enhances the functionality and long-term value of the property within the Paddington context.

 

The result is a contemporary terrace that feels both timeless and distinctly urban — a home designed for modern city living while remaining grounded in the architectural character of its surroundings.

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Sustainability Strategy

The home was designed using low-carbon construction methods, combining lightweight metal cladding with a sustainably framed timber structure and insulation levels that exceed Australian standards for year-round thermal comfort. Carefully considered passive design principles, including cross ventilation to every room, allow the home to naturally cool during summer while reducing long-term energy consumption and enhancing everyday liveability.

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Client Feedback

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"We’re thrilled with the design Jodie Dang Architects created for our project in Paddington . The design blends modern style with the character of the terrace, making great use of space and light. Jodie was professional, attentive, and collaborative throughout the process. The attention to detail is outstanding, and we’ve had so many compliments on the final result. Highly recommend!"