Residential Projects

Paddo Pool Terrace: An Ode to Pink Monochrome and the Charm of History

Nestled in the heart of Paddington, Sydney, the Paddo Pool Terrace stands as a living testament to the evolution of both terrace houses and the suburb itself. This multigenerational home, spanning four storeys, offers a unique perspective on history, with each level dedicated to a different generation of residents. As one explores the layers of this heritage-listed residence, it becomes clear that the Paddo Pool Terrace is not just a home; it's a vertical journey through time.

 

The facade of the terrace house is painted in a soft, light pink hue, creating a charming and inviting exterior. White railings accentuate the elegant design, providing a striking contrast and enhancing the overall aesthetics of the building.

 

A Historical Cross-Section

 

Terrace houses, with their uniform fronts and stylish ensembles, have a rich history dating back to the late Georgian era in Britain. Originally inspired by garden terraces, these structures were an architectural response to the demands of a rapidly growing industrial-age world. Built in the 1870s, this terrace initially boasted a coach house and a generous garden. It is believed to have been constructed for the Chief Clerk of the Legislative Council—a reflection of its prestigious history. Over the years, the house witnessed numerous owners, each adding their own chapter to its story. 

 

Inside the house, the living area is bathed in natural light, creating a warm and welcoming ambiance. Sunlight streams through large windows, illuminating the room and highlighting its spacious and inviting atmosphere.

 

 

A Bright Evolution

 

 

To address the inherent darkness of terrace houses, Luigi Rosselli Architects introduced a two-story high atrium with a glass roof. This feature not only floods the house with natural light but also connects the vertical family within. It serves as the central hub for living, dining, and cooking, creating a luminous and inviting space.


Beyond the atrium lies a lush garden, designed by Dangar Barin Smith, reminiscent of a Rousseau painting. Here, a modern swimming pool replaces the original coaching house and stables, symbolising our contemporary appreciation for leisure.

 

In the garden, a serene oasis awaits. Lush greenery surrounds a sparkling pool, creating a tranquil and inviting outdoor space. The pool's crystal-clear waters glisten in the sunlight, inviting relaxation and enjoyment.

 

 

Blending the Old with the New

 

Handelsmann + Khaw, under the skillful direction of Tania Handelsmann, played a pivotal role in seamlessly blending the historic finishes and materials, which have aged gracefully over more than a century, with high-quality contemporary additions. One standout feature that captures this harmonious fusion of the old and the new is the pink monochrome bathroom, a nod to the golden eras of the past.


In the kitchen, a luxurious ambiance reigns. A Calacatta Viola marble island and backsplash take center stage, their exquisite veining adding a touch of opulence. Soft monochrome cabinetry complements the marble, creating a harmonious and sophisticated design. Brass tapware adds a warm, metallic accent, enhancing the overall elegance of the space.

 

From another angle, the kitchen reveals fluted glass doors that conceal a hidden pantry. These elegant doors add a touch of privacy and sophistication to the space while providing easy access to a well-organized pantry behind them.

 

The Blush Pink Monochrome Bathroom

 

The blush pink monochrome bathroom stands out as a tribute to Victorian elegance, infusing the Paddo Pool Terrace with a touch of timeless charm. At its centre stage is the custom Norwegian Rose Marble vanity and Nood Co Pill Basin in Blush Pink. The delicate veining patterns of the stone and rooms' rosy hues beautifully complement the heritage of the house.

 


In the pink bathroom, a sense of timeless elegance prevails. A Norwegian Rose Marble vanity takes center stage, its intricate patterns and soft pink hues exuding sophistication. Above the vanity, an arch mirror reflects the room's classic charm. Brass tapware adds a warm metallic accent, while blush pink wallpaper enhances the overall aesthetic. The focal point is the Nood Co basin in Blush Pink, a modern masterpiece that harmonises with the room's vintage-inspired decor.

 

In a house that preserves the layers of its past while embracing the present, the pink monochrome powder room stands as a testament to the thoughtful design and the appreciation for history that define the Paddo Pool Terrace. It is a space where elegance and functionality coexist, where the past and the present converge, and where every detail tells a story of timeless beauty and modern sensibility.

 

In the bedroom, a cozy ambiance is created through the use of timber cabinetry, adding warmth and character to the space. Pink drapes frame the windows, infusing a soft and romantic touch into the room. A glass light pendant hangs gracefully from the ceiling, casting a gentle glow and adding a touch of contemporary elegance to the bedroom's design.

 

Photography by Prue Ruscoe

October 18, 2023

Anastasia Ignatova