A late 1970s and early 1980s two-story brown brick cottage in Sydney's inner-west suburb of Stanmore has become a showcase for how thoughtful renovation can enhance rather than erase a home's original character. The two-bedroom house, owned by Elise Honeybrook and Scott Clark, demonstrates how retro features can be celebrated and integrated with contemporary living.
Honeybrook and Clark, who co-own Valentina's cafe in Marrickville and the Grumpy Donuts bakeries, share their home with three Brussels Griffon dogs named Abbie, Tina, and Peaches. When they first viewed the property, they were immediately drawn to its distinctive period features. "The timber paneling, tiles, textures, colors and finishes of this era felt so warm and interesting compared to other houses we'd viewed," Honeybrook explained.
The couple's renovation philosophy centered on preservation rather than transformation. They kept changes to a minimum, focusing on strategic updates that would enhance the home's livability while maintaining its retro appeal. Their work included applying fresh paint throughout, removing or replacing select carpeting, and renovating the upstairs bathroom with assistance from designer Lucia Braham.
The heart of their home is the kitchen and living area, which Honeybrook describes as their favorite space. "We spend most of our time in the kitchen/living area," she noted. "It's so open and inviting, really spacious and comfortable." This area exemplifies their approach of working with the home's existing layout and features rather than fighting against them.
The location in Stanmore provides the couple with an ideal urban lifestyle that combines convenience with character. "We have everything we need practically on our doorstep: local shops, buzzing Enmore venues, and Stanmore train station is just across the road, connecting us to all of Sydney," Honeybrook said. This connectivity allows them to easily manage their business ventures while enjoying the benefits of inner-city living.
Looking toward the future, the couple has ambitious plans for their retro retreat. Their biggest dream involves extending the second story and creating an indoor/outdoor area on the upper level, which would add both space and functionality while maintaining the home's distinctive character.
For those considering similar renovation projects, Honeybrook offers refreshingly simple advice that reflects their own successful approach. "The rule for decorating is there are no rules," she said. "If it feels good, do it!" This philosophy has clearly served them well in creating a home that successfully fuses retro charm with vibrant tones, playful updates, and personality at every turn.
