Source : the age
Whether it’s art deco, Federation, Victorian, or Tudor, homes from a bygone era are often conveniently located in or near the inner city and offer both lifestyle and investment appeal.
With ornate craftsmanship, large proportions, quality materials, and often steeped in history, these residences have character and personality and there is much to appreciate in them. Here are five of the best period properties on the market in Sydney.
77-79 George Street, Avalon Beach NSW
“Leontine”, a late-1930s Spanish Colonial residence, sits on approximately 1636 square metres of expansive lawns and established gardens.
The double-storey home blends restored original period character, including white-rendered walls, high ceilings, original hardwood floors and a sandstone fireplace.
Modern updates cater to contemporary living and include a marble-finished kitchen, a dedicated children’s wing and an entire upper level, perfect for a private parents’ retreat.
Outside, you will find a 14.5 metre tiled pool and a fully self-contained cabana.
2 School Street, Balmain East NSW
Balmain East’s “Kaikoura” offers spectacular views of Sydney Harbour, including the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the CBD, from each of its three levels.
Built circa 1840, the colonial sandstone home is integral to the peninsula’s maritime history, and many of its architectural features are beautifully preserved, including rich timber floors, restored fireplaces and iron lacework.
Other features include the renovated kitchen, a luxurious master bedroom with a top-floor retreat, and a secure, gated forecourt with triple parking.
73 Ku-Ring-Gai Avenue, Turramurra NSW
This circa 1927 home offers a sense of period luxury through its original facade, rich timber detailing and soaring decorative ceilings.
The designer Corian kitchen includes a butler’s pantry, polyurethane soft-close shaker cabinetry, double ovens, a breakfast island, premium Miele appliances, and three contemporary bathrooms, including two with underfloor heating.
Set on a level parcel of land measuring approximately 1252 square metres, the property features an enclosed rear garden with an in-ground pool and, perhaps the highlight, a poolside pavilion with its own bathroom.
4 Matong Street, Gordon NSW
The apartment block “Stoneyhurst” was once the family estate of the Love family, who were behind the company that created Uncle Tobys.
Built in 1890 and offered to the market for the first time in more than 70 years, the residence features beautifully maintained period details, including a generous floorplan, a timber staircase, four-metre-high ceilings, ornate cornices, ceiling roses, architraves and original marble fireplaces.
Each apartment has its own character, yet all share large living areas, formal entertaining rooms and private outdoor spaces.
25 Sunnyside Place, Bayview NSW
This sandstone manor was built circa 1915 and has been renovated to honour the home’s period features, including ornate high ceilings, classic fireplaces, timber floors, bespoke joinery and a billiard room.
Modern updates include a gourmet Carrara marble kitchen with premium Miele appliances, a temperature-controlled wine cellar and indoor-outdoor living spaces.
Outdoors, you will find water gardens, a resort-style pool and an entertainer’s pavilion with a bar and outdoor barbecue.
“Inglewood” features northerly views extending down Pittwater towards Lion Island and offers lower-level accommodation, ideal for guests.


