An 1870s heirloom terrace that blends period details with modern sophistication

A generational family home inherited by the current owners, this 1870s terrace in Paddington required an approach that was both sensitive and sensible.

The initial brief was for two new bathrooms, but architect and interior designer Alena Smith’s sound advice to the owners was to hit pause on the ad-hoc patch-up jobs and instead look to a master plan that may cost more in the short term, but would undoubtedly make for a more gratifying future and eliminate the need for endless repairs.

“My client lived in the house as a child and is now raising her own family there. It’s something of a full-circle heirloom,” says Alena.