In the heart of Surry Hills, this remarkable warehouse conversion tells the story of Sydney’s evolving residential design landscape. Once reminiscent of a 1920s tea factory, the building has been carefully transformed into a refined private residence, balancing heritage character with contemporary apartment living.
Positioned on level six and spanning approximately 300 square metres, this expansive Sydney apartment offers a rare sense of space, light, and comfort within one of the city’s most dynamic inner-city suburbs. Originally part of the iconic Edwards & Co. warehouse, the building has been thoughtfully reimagined by Josephine Hurley Architecture, setting the foundation for a truly considered interior.
Tucked within the narrow, evolving streets of Surry Hills, this home reflects a design approach centred on everyday liveability. The brief prioritised comfort and functionality, ensuring each space could support a relaxed, modern lifestyle while maintaining a strong connection to the building’s industrial heritage.
Rather than concealing the original architectural elements, the design celebrates them. Exposed textures, raw finishes, and structural details are intentionally left visible, allowing the history of the space to become an integral part of the interior narrative. This approach is a defining feature of contemporary warehouse apartment design in Sydney.
A key strength of this project lies in its balance between old and new. The stripped-back interior allows the building’s original character, its scale, materials, and proportions, to take centre stage, while carefully introduced modern elements bring warmth and refinement.
This layered approach to residential interior design ensures the home feels both grounded in its history and aligned with contemporary living. The result is a space that feels authentic, understated, and highly liveable.
Each area within the apartment has been designed to adapt to different functions while maintaining a consistent, calming aesthetic. Open-plan living areas flow seamlessly, while more private zones offer retreat and quiet.
The design language throughout remains cohesive, neutral tones, natural materials, and minimal styling create a sense of calm that supports everyday living. This is a hallmark of modern Australian interiors, where simplicity and functionality are key.
Extending beyond the main residence, a former office space has been transformed into a rooftop guest retreat, offering an additional layer of flexibility and luxury. This elevated space provides a private sanctuary, ideal for hosting guests or creating a quiet escape above the city.
The integration of this rooftop level enhances the overall functionality of the home, demonstrating how adaptive reuse can maximise both space and lifestyle.
This Surry Hills warehouse apartment stands as a refined example of how heritage buildings can be reimagined for modern residential use. By embracing the raw, original elements of the structure while introducing a carefully curated interior, the design achieves a balance that feels both timeless and contemporary.
Images © Tom Ferguson.
Author: Pierce Eldridge, The Stylecast 2017.
