Family jewel

A SYDNEY COUPLE ARE INSPIRED BY THEIR HERITAGE HOME'S GRAND OLD FEATURES TO CREATE A STYLISH, COMFORTABLE HUB

- STEPHANIE HOPE

TOGETHER TIME "The backyard is our sanctuary from our busy lives, a place to sit and relax," says homeowner Sarah (pictured, with husband Paul and sons Benjamin, left, and Sebastian). An outdoor dining setting from Harvey Norman is the perfect place to sit with a glass of wine while the boys play, and the Steel Cucine four-burner barbecue from The BBQ Store makes entertaining outdoors a breeze. The roof of the new extension is Colorbond in Wallaby. For a similar awning, try the Protecta Straight Drop from Intex Concepts.

WE LOVE...privacy plants

In any high-density area, backyard privacy is an issue. "We have a unit block next door and planted a hedge along that fence with a variety of lilly pilly called 'Goodbye Neighbours" says Sarah. "It grew quickly and is quite hardy. There was a small gap so we planted a large ornamental pear there - seven years on, it fills that space perfectly. You can sit in the back garden and not see the unit building at all. It's completely private."

ENTRY Once the front door opens (opposite), the home's original features make an impact. "That's what drew us to this house," says Sarah. "That link with its history was important for us to maintain."