Sculptural Luxury in Surry Hills – A Warehouse Apartment That Redefines Elegance
Some homes are beautiful. Others are architectural statements. And then there’s this apartment in Surry Hills—a 214sqm warehouse conversion so stunning it’s been featured in Vogue Living, House & Garden, and pretty much every high-end design magazine that matters.
Reimagined by Alexander&Co, this New York-style apartment in the Project A building feels like stepping into a contemporary sculpture, with subtle curves, soaring ceilings, and enormous steel-framed windows flooding the space with natural light.
It’s bold but inviting, industrial yet soft, grand yet livable—a masterclass in how to turn an industrial shell into a warm, luxurious home. If you’re looking for renovation inspiration, this place is packed with ideas you’ll want to steal (or at least dream about).
“Architectural space is unique because it consciously molds the environment not only to accommodate humans, but to activate the imagination, as well.”
When I saw the listing for this home I knew I wanted to see it. It was going to be one of those rare times where you get to peak inside and really see and feel the renovation in all its glory. It was first listed in June 2024, I walked through this home on a freezing and wet winter’s day in June. What I will say is that the foyer was underwhelming and I thought I had made a mistake and turned up at the wrong house. The guide at the time was a sweet $4m and it sat on the market for quite sometime before the home found its new owners.
Let’s dive in and I’ll walk you through this incredible renovation.
Image via RealEstate.com.au, listing by Sotheby’s International | Paddington
1. The Art of Space – Making Open-Plan Feel Intimate
This apartment is huge—think warehouse scale, but instead of feeling cavernous, it’s intimate, warm, and perfectly proportioned.
What You Can Take from This:
– High ceilings don’t have to feel overwhelming. Adding curves, layered lighting, and soft textures (like linen curtains) creates a sense of coziness within the grandeur.
– Zoning is everything. Even in an open-plan space, defining separate dining, lounging, and entertaining areas helps make a home feel functional, not just vast.
– Minimalist doesn’t mean boring. Here, clean lines are paired with bespoke finishes, sculptural elements, and warm materials to create depth and interest.
2. Statement Windows – Framing the World Outside
The industrial steel-framed windows are arguably the star of the show—flooding the apartment with natural light and giving it that iconic loft feel.
What You Can Take from This:
– If you’re renovating, think about windows as design features, not just functional elements. Oversized steel-framed windows or glass partitions can completely change the feel of a space.
– Natural light is the best design trick. The more you can incorporate, the brighter, airier, and more spacious your home will feel.
– Balance raw industrial elements with softness. Here, the hard lines of steel-framed windows are offset by curved forms and flowing curtains, preventing the space from feeling too stark.
Image via RealEstate.com.au, listing by Sotheby’s International | Paddington
3. Concrete Flooring – The Underrated Hero of Modern Design
Forget hardwood—this apartment leans into its industrial roots with concrete flooring, proving that raw materials can be luxurious when done right.
What You Can Take from This:
– Polished concrete is a fantastic flooring choice for modern homes. It’s durable, sleek, and surprisingly warm when paired with underfloor heating or rugs.
– It’s low-maintenance and timeless. Unlike timber, concrete won’t scratch or fade, making it a great long-term investment.
– Pair concrete with warm, textured materials. Think timber cabinetry, linen upholstery, and soft lighting to stop it from feeling too cold or industrial.
4. Kitchen Goals – A Sculptural, Minimalist Dream
The custom kitchen in this apartment isn’t just functional—it’s a work of art. The curved island breakfast bench feels sculptural, blending seamlessly with the rest of the space.
What You Can Take from This:
– Curves in kitchens are trending for a reason. A curved island or benchtop softens the look of a modern space and makes it feel more inviting.
– Integrated appliances are the key to a clean, minimalist look. Hidden wine fridges, dishwashers, and sleek cabinetry keep the kitchen looking seamless.
– Big ovens make a big difference. This home’s 90cm Smeg oven means you can cook for a crowd without stress (or at least feel like a professional chef while heating up leftovers).
5. The Bedroom & Bathrooms – Where Luxury Meets Comfort
The master suite is everything a bedroom should be—spacious, calming, and effortlessly stylish, with a walk-in wardrobe and an ensuite that wouldn’t look out of place in a five-star hotel.
What You Can Take from This:
– Invest in a well-designed walk-in wardrobe. Even a small one can make daily life feel more organized and luxurious.
– Marble in bathrooms = timeless elegance. Paired with rainfall showers and subtle lighting, it creates a spa-like experience at home.
– Built-in storage is your best friend. Keeping things uncluttered makes a space feel larger, calmer, and more polished.
Final Thoughts: What You Should Steal from 1/46-54 Foster Street, Surry Hills for Your Own Renovation
Walking through this apartment felt like stepping into a perfectly curated design magazine, but the best part? It’s not just about aesthetics—it’s deeply functional and livable.
If you’re planning a renovation, here are the biggest takeaways from this stunning warehouse conversion:
✅ Use curves to soften modern design. Arches, rounded furniture, and sculptural elements add warmth to contemporary spaces.
✅ Industrial elements can feel elegant. Steel-framed windows, concrete flooring, and exposed details work beautifully when paired with soft materials.
✅ Prioritize natural light. Skylights, oversized windows, and glass partitions make any space feel bigger and brighter.
✅ Minimalism works best with layers. Adding texture through curtains, timber, and upholstery stops modern interiors from feeling too cold.
✅ Functionality should never be compromised. Smart storage, high-end appliances, and thoughtful layouts make a home truly livable.
So, what’s your favorite feature of this apartment? Are you obsessed with the warehouse windows, the sculptural kitchen, or the minimalist luxury vibe?
Drop a comment and let me know! Until next time, happy renovating!
Listing Details:
1/46-54 Foster St Surry Hills NSW 2001
Listing with Sydney Sotheby’s – Link here
3BR 2B
Sold 08 November 2024
Undisclosed
