Nestled within Sydney’s historic Millers Point, this 1860s Victorian terrace has been reimagined as a serene family sanctuary—where patina-rich surfaces meet contemporary elegance. The curated interiors tell a story of history-infused maximalism, where every layer reveals a detail in service of heritage, emotion, and craft. Lorena Gaxiola’s poetic vision was to celebrate the family’s tri-cultural identity through salvaged timbers, artisanal finishes, and restrained yet expressive craftsmanship. From reinstated cornices to hand-finished brass accents and kauri floorboards, each intervention evokes a dialogue between past and present. Realising that vision required deft navigation of significant constraints: extensive structural damage from decades of water ingress and termites, heritage restrictions that demanded visual continuity, and tight access that challenged the logistics of modern construction. As designers, we oversaw every detail—from heritage review and documentation to construction coordination and bespoke installations. Threading new electrical, climate, and plumbing systems through fragile timber bones took surgical precision. Yet the results were seamless: original chandeliers revived, floorboards restored or matched with reclaimed timber, and American oak joinery paired with brass trims and marble mosaics brought new life to tired volumes. Design decisions were driven by sustainability, narrative, and craftsmanship. Custom pieces were commissioned from masters in their field—such as Lowe Furniture’s bespoke creations and a custom mural by Indigenous artist Danie Mellor, which pays homage to the family’s cultural roots. Each space was approached with emotion and intentionality, particularly the bathrooms which the client described simply and joyfully as: “The bathrooms make me happy.” Every room in the home unfolds like a story—patterned tiles, textured stone, and layered materials come together to offer intimate moments of discovery. Our commitment extended from spatial planning to final flourishes. We handled styling, soft furnishing installation, custom window treatments, and every curated object. Furniture was sourced locally, materials were salvaged when possible, and thoughtful detailing elevated every corner. The result is a timeless, emotionally resonant home—one that celebrates craftsmanship, elevates functionality, and preserves a precious piece of Sydney’s architectural legacy for generations to come.

We redecorated, added new carpet, lighting, panelling, furniture and antiques to one of the children's bedrooms of our Dulwich Village Family Home project. Interior Design by Imperfect Interiors, photo Dean Hearne

luxury bedroom with extended headboard with bespoke burr nightstands

This Master Bedroom is a finalist in the NZ House & Garden Best Interior Awards 2019, Photo Credits by Jane Usher of NZ House & Garden

We put in a side return extension at the back of the property, creating a much larger master bedroom. Custom made upholstered headboard in a Nobilis wool, and cushions covered in Schumacher and Travers fabrics.

A tufted button-back headboard combines with luxurious textures and a delicate colour palette to create a warm and inviting guest bedroom.

David Giles

Farrow and Ball De Nimes, Ivory curtains, ivory carpet wool loop, edwardian, sea view, guest bedroom, fireplace

Bespoke joinery in this principle bedroom with several tonal paint shades used with precision in this North London Victorian house