Living legacy

This iconic slice of Australia's architectural history in Sydney's Castlecrag has been exquisitely restored and extended, channelling the ideology of the original architects

- WORDS SHELLEY TUSTIN STYLING LUCY GOUGH PHOTOGRAPHY ALANA LANDSBERRY

Living in a building of architectural significance, one is not so much a homeowner as a custodian – but there are few so well-suited to the role as Annette. The CEO of Museums of History NSW, Annette’s work is driven by a passion for the past. This has overflowed into her personal life, as she and her husband Michael are the owners and meticulous caretakers of the Walter Burley Griffin-designed Duncan House in Castlecrag.

Annette and Michael’s love of heritage homes is longstanding, and when the couple moved from Melbourne to Sydney and began house hunting, a period gem was high on their list of must-haves. “We were looking for something that hadn’t realised its full potential, that had architectural significance and heritage value to it. I love a project,” says Annette.