Enduring Character – Renny Street by Tom Mark Henry

By maintaining the historical elements of the existing terrace home, Tom Mark Henry pays homage to Renny Street’s history while instilling a contemporary, artisanal approach throughout. The architect applies a timeless and carefully curated selection of finishes and materials that bridge the gap between the past and present, incorporating details that imbue the space with character.

Similar to many terrace houses in Paddington, an inner Sydney suburb, each residence carries its own narrative of past inhabitants. When reworking the interior of a heritage home, Tom Mark Henry chooses to draw inspiration from the existing rich details. A sense of warmth permeates the space within, with every finish and surface chosen to cultivate a serene atmosphere, offering a retreat from the bustling outside world. Renny Street is envisioned as both a restored dwelling and a nostalgic homage to the past, brimming with charm. Throughout the design, bespoke joinery seamlessly integrates into each space, catering to the modern needs of the occupants while preserving the timeless elegance already present.

A sense of warmth permeates the space within, with every finish and surface chosen to cultivate a serene atmosphere, offering a retreat from the bustling outside world.

The restoration journey also celebrates the return of arched windows, as Tom Mark Henry incorporates softened curves in various rooms throughout. Linking the different levels is a staircase, anchored by natural timber flooring and adorned with integrated, curved handrails that enhance its tactile appeal. Through the integration of parquetry flooring – a style less common in contemporary residential design, among other subtle details – there is a feeling of stepping into another era as one moves through the interior.

Accented by vibrant pops of colour that provide a harmonious counterpoint, the neutral base tones establish a stable backdrop for an evolving display of objects, furniture and lighting. The inclusion of curved elements in the kitchen island and other joinery enhances the flow throughout the space, addressing the scale constraints typical of terrace homes. The interplay of rich hues and engaging textures adds dimension to the interiors, while the overall clean lines and airy atmosphere underscore a natural connection, particularly to the sunlight filtering in.

Accented by vibrant pops of colour that provide a harmonious counterpoint, the neutral base tones establish a stable backdrop for an evolving display of objects, furniture and lighting.

Imbued with echoes of the past yet distinctly modern, Renny Street is revitalised. Tom Mark Henry ensures that the artisans who contributed to its original form would take pride in its latest renovation and restoration.