Residential & Interior Design

Westleigh Wonder - Neutral Bay

Westleigh Wonder is a renovation on Sydney’s North Shore that focuses on improving everyday functionality, natural light, and flow through a series of modest but well-considered design moves. The brief from the client was clear: make the home feel brighter, easier to live in, and more connected both spatially and in tone.

The bathroom faced several key challenges in its original form. The layout was cramped, with the toilet placed centrally, limiting shower space and making movement awkward. Natural light was also poor, making the space feel even smaller. We reconfigured the layout by swapping the positions of the toilet and shower, which allowed us to expand the shower zone and improve circulation. A new skylight was introduced to bring natural light deep into the space, transforming it from a dark, closed-off room into one that feels light-filled and open.

Functionality was also addressed through improved storage. A larger custom vanity with built-in storage and a mirrored cabinet with internal compartments helped us meet the client’s request for more usable space without cluttering the room. Brass tapware and fittings were chosen for their warmth and ability to add subtle character, an elegant counterpoint to the soft, coastal-inspired palette of light greens, greys, and blues that runs throughout the home.

The kitchen continues this tonal approach. Graphic tiles and teal joinery introduce colour and texture, while timber handles and detailing provide warmth and link visually with the timber flooring and other natural elements. The tiled floor inset defines the working kitchen area within the open-plan space, offering a subtle transition without the need for walls or partitions.

One of the more technical challenges was resolving a level change between the internal floor and the external balcony. We addressed this by rebuilding the internal floor structure, allowing for a continuous, accessible transition from kitchen to living to outdoor terrace. This small intervention had a significant impact on how the space feels, improving both usability and cohesion.

Another constraint was the home’s low ceiling height. Rather than undertaking major structural changes, we proposed a tailored performance solution that preserved internal volumes while ensuring compliance, helping us achieve generous-feeling rooms without compromising proportion.

The study, finished with a soft teal carpet, acts as a small retreat within the home - a quiet space for work or rest, with built-in shelving and storage. Large-format windows throughout the home frame the surrounding views, including wide city vistas, and bring in consistent natural light.

The palette, light, soft, and cohesive, was intentionally selected to reinforce the home’s connection to its setting and create a calming atmosphere. Inspired by coastal tones and the lightness of the view beyond, the colour strategy links the spaces visually and emotionally, allowing one room to flow naturally into the next.

Westleigh Wonder is not a dramatic transformation, but a careful and personal one. It reflects the value of small, smart interventions, resolving functional problems, improving light and space, and creating a cohesive atmosphere that supports daily life. Every detail, from layout to material choice, was approached with a clear purpose: to make the home feel easy, calm, and connected.


The Jacaranda Terrace (Paddington Urban Conservation Area)

The renovation was a part of a two-storey terrace house in Paddington. When renovating the bathroom, we aimed to utilise the space to create a modern layout with soft geometric shapes. We embraced the use of monochromic notions by including dark fixtures and accessories to create an edgy, sophisticated look. We ensured that an abundance of natural light was incorporated to provide a great source of visibility to the area and ventilation to improve airflow. 

The new rear roof extension fills the existing space with natural light and ventilation—an excellent conversion of an unused room. The brief was to create a well-lit and cozy kids' bedroom in the unused, inaccessible attic space. We designed it in a way to fit an ensuite and walk-in wardrobe. Adding one traditional dormer to the front and a rear roof extension transformed the space into a bright and fun room.

Sara Vita Photography

The Ribbon House, Randwick

The initial client brief provided a clear directive: to renovate the kitchen, laundry, and bathroom of a 1930s house while preserving its authentic character and integrating a modern aesthetic. As a family of four, the clients envisioned an expansive living space with a seamless connection between the kitchen and dining area—ideal for entertaining and ensuring easy access to the rear outdoor space. Our design approach was deeply rooted in their lifestyle needs, incorporating their input throughout the process.

The existing kitchen was small, with the laundry and toilet inconveniently located at the rear of the property. To enhance functionality and social interaction, we optimized the new kitchen's layout, centering it around a spacious island that fosters connection while offering a direct view of the backyard. A large window above the sink was introduced to maximize natural light and ventilation. The kitchen's refined aesthetic features dark blue and grey cabinetry, an Olympia Quartzite Honed Block benchtop with a waterproof splashback, and satin brass diamond-textured handles. Thoughtfully placed pendant lights above the island serve both functional and decorative purposes, casting a warm glow while contributing to the space’s overall elegance. To create a striking contrast with the home’s original timber flooring, a grey Pandomo levelling compound floor was added.

As the project evolved, the client expanded the brief to include the renovation of the main bathroom and master ensuite on the first floor. Our contemporary design approach for these spaces was carefully balanced with the preservation of original stained-glass windows, ensuring continuity between the home’s heritage elements and modern updates.

A key transformation involved reimagining the staircase at the front entrance, which previously felt enclosed and lacked natural light. Our response was to introduce a grander, more inviting entryway by designing a staircase that serves as a central architectural feature. A skylight and statement pendant light were strategically positioned to enhance brightness and drama, with the handrail incorporating geometric motifs that echo the original Art Deco style in a contemporary interpretation. Its transparent form allows light to flow seamlessly through the space, further enhancing the home's openness.

Throughout the renovation, we employed unique materials to create an extraordinary experience. Waterproof wallpaper was used in wet areas for a distinctive touch, and reflective surfaces were strategically placed to offer dynamic perspectives within the home—for example, allowing views of the bamboo garden from the kitchen. Stained-glass doors were retained to maintain a delicate balance between the home’s traditional character and modern interventions. Additionally, the existing brick fireplace was modernized to harmonize with the refreshed interior.

By carefully blending heritage preservation with contemporary design principles, we successfully transformed this 1930s home into a refined, functional, and light-filled living space that aligns with the client's vision and lifestyle. The result is a home that celebrates both its history and a forward-thinking design ethos.

Photography: Lisa Loi

This project was also featured on Lunchbox Architect: 
https://www.lunchboxarchitect.com/featured/the-art-deco-house-nathalie-scipioni-architects-1930s-heritage-home-renovation-kitchen-bathroom-laundry-randwick-nsw-au

Kingsford

Kingsford Residence – A Contemporary Family Oasis

This renovation in Kingsford reimagined a traditional home into a contemporary retreat, enhancing both its street presence and livability. The updated exterior and lush landscaping create a welcoming entry, while the new backyard pool offers a serene focal point that complements the modern interiors.

Inside, the master suite was transformed into a luxurious private haven. A custom-designed walk-in wardrobe features generous storage, including drawers, open shelving, and ample hanging space—all finished to reflect the refined aesthetic of the home. The open-plan ensuite continues the sense of calm, with a sculptural bathtub as the centrepiece and a spa-like shower experience defined by high-end fixtures and natural textures.

The living area now serves as the heart of the home, designed with openness and flow in mind. Large windows flood the space with natural light, and a statement staircase—crafted with clean lines and quality materials—adds a sense of architectural drama and elegance.

This project reflects a holistic approach to modern living, where every space is thoughtfully designed to be both beautiful and functional.

The Soffio, Vaucluse apartment

This renovation in Vaucluse reimagines a dated apartment into a refined, contemporary home defined by light, functionality, and a seamless sense of flow.

The design objective was to reconfigure the layout into a highly efficient three-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment centred around an open-plan kitchen, living, and dining area. Working within the constraints of the existing perimeter walls, the new layout maximises the potential of the original footprint while transforming the experience of space and light.

By relocating the kitchen and dining to the balcony side, where natural ventilation and daylight are most abundant, the design creates a strong visual and physical connection to the outdoors. The living area now occupies one of the original bedrooms, forming an open, connected sequence of spaces that promotes cross-ventilation and enhances natural illumination throughout. The master bedroom replaces the former kitchen, achieving both privacy and balance within the new plan.

The renovation fulfils the client’s brief for a generous kitchen, fluid circulation, and interconnected living spaces without sacrificing functionality or spatial comfort. Every detail has been carefully considered, from Italian lighting fixtures and bespoke joinery to the tactile finishes, feature wallpaper, and suspended range hood over the sculptural island bench.

The kitchen serves as the heart of the home, combining practicality with design sophistication. Bronze and silver cabinetry introduce subtle vibrancy, while the curved island bench anchors the space with sculptural elegance. A Corian benchtop provides a seamless, durable surface that is both beautiful and effortless to maintain.

This transformation not only elevates the apartment’s aesthetic and functional value but also enhances its environmental performance. Cross-ventilation through the living, dining, and kitchen zones reduces reliance on air-conditioning, delivering long-term comfort and cost savings.

The result is a bespoke, contemporary residence that exudes warmth, elegance, and creative precision, an inspired example of thoughtful, high-end apartment living.

Photography: Lisa Loi

Heritage Terrace, Lavender Bay

Lavender Bay Terrace – Heritage Sensitivity with Contemporary Comfort

Located in a conservation area, this 1880s terrace in Lavender Bay was carefully restored to honour its original character while enhancing functionality for modern living. The brief was to retain the home’s existing configuration and reinstate key heritage features, all while improving day-to-day livability.

Working closely with the client from concept through to approvals, heritage consultation, and construction, we designed a home that respects its past and supports the lifestyle of its present occupants.

The front façade was revitalised with restoration works and a fresh coat of paint, bringing back its original charm. Inside, we replaced old carpet with new timber flooring and preserved the original staircase, adding a custom handrail to bring subtle contemporary detail.

One of the key improvements was the addition of a new ground-floor bathroom and laundry—previously only accessible through the courtyard. To increase natural light throughout the home, we introduced large doors opening to the courtyard and skylights on the upper level, brightening the interiors and improving connection to the outdoors.

This project is a thoughtful balance between heritage conservation and modern convenience, creating a timeless home that continues to evolve with its owners.

Photography: Graham Jepson

Lions court, Erskineville (Heritage Conservation Area)

Erskineville Terrace – Smart Design For Compact Living

This transformation of a narrow, single-level terrace in Erskineville demonstrates how thoughtful design can unlock the full potential of a constrained site. Originally a two-bedroom, one-bathroom home, the property was redesigned into a two-storey residence with three bedrooms and two bathrooms—maximising functionality without compromising style.

At the heart of the home is a highly efficient U-shaped kitchen, which doubles as a social hub with integrated seating. Custom joinery extends beneath the new timber staircase, forming a seamless multifunctional unit that houses cabinetry, appliances, laundry, and storage—all while maintaining a clean and cohesive aesthetic. A small timber shelf wall connects the kitchen to the corridor, complementing the warmth of the stairs and enhancing the sense of flow.

Premium finishes, such as the Quantum Quartz benchtop in concrete matte and sage green cabinetry, add a refined yet earthy tone to the space. A smoked mirror splashback reflects light and glimpses of the rear garden, adding depth and visual interest. A cleverly placed corner window framed by joinery increases both natural light and ventilation.

The rear extension is finished with a modern Pandomo floor, ensuring a level transition from old to new. Large windows and layered lighting keep the living spaces bright and inviting at all times of day.

This project is a testament to the power of smart planning, tailored joinery, and quality detailing—transforming a modest terrace into a stylish, space-efficient home that delivers long-term value.

Photography: Lisa Loi

Rozelle Canvas House

This project involved the alteration and addition to an existing 4-bedroom, 1-bathroom dwelling, with a focus on enhancing spatial flow, natural light, and  comfort while preserving key original features. 

On the ground floor, the design retained the original front two bedrooms, improving natural light in Bedroom 1 and fully renovating the existing bathroom. The living, dining, and kitchen areas were reconfigured into an open-plan layout, complemented by a new kitchen and flooring throughout. A separate TV area was introduced for added flexibility, and the staircase was relocated to optimise the layout. Special care was taken to retain original stained glass, particularly in the stairwell, as a nod to the home's character. Reverse cycle air conditioning, double glazing, and upgraded insulation were implemented to ensure comfort and energy efficiency, with a strong emphasis on maximising both natural light and storage throughout. 

The new first floor includes a spacious master bedroom with an ensuite and walk-in robe, two additional bedrooms with built-in robes, a new family bathroom, and a walk-in laundry. This level was designed to capitalise on natural light and city views, while continuing the theme of ample storage and modern functionality. 

The completed home successfully merges heritage charm with contemporary living, resulting in a warm, efficient, and beautifully updated family residence.

Masonic Hall / Balmain

The Masonic Hall in Balmain is a stunning example of heritage architecture, showcasing the beauty and elegance of traditional brickwork. This iconic building has recently undergone a meticulous renovation, which has carefully preserved and restored its original character.

The exterior of the Masonic Hall is a testament to the enduring quality of brickwork, The building's façade exudes an air of timeless elegance, inviting visitors to step inside and experience the grandeur of the space within. Inside, the Masonic Hall is a marvel of heritage design, with its soaring ceilings, and intricately carved timber detailing all lovingly restored to their former glory. The Masonic Hall in Balmain is a true treasure of Sydney's architecture.

Rose Bay Apartment

Rose Bay Apartment – A Strategic Renovation for Resale

The client approached us with a clear goal: to transform an unrenovated three-bedroom, one-bathroom top-floor apartment in Rose Bay into a modern, market-ready property within a 12-week timeframe.

Our design focused on unlocking the apartment’s full potential through a contemporary open-plan layout, maximising natural light and creating a greater sense of space. We managed the project from concept through to construction, ensuring all works were delivered on time and aligned with the client’s resale strategy.

To complete the transformation, we provided interior styling to elevate the presentation of the apartment—resulting in a polished, high-impact space that was ready for market.

This project demonstrates how efficient design, practical execution, and attention to detail can quickly transform a dated space into a high-performing property asset.

Photography: Justin Macintosh

Kitchen Renovation Haberfield

Surry Hills Renovation (Heritage Conservation Area)

Internal renovation of a Victorian Terrace house in the heart of Surry Hills. Featuring bronze and metallic tones.

Photography: 

Leichhardt Dual Occupancy

This project in Leichhardt came from a simple idea: parents wanting to live next door to their daughter.

By turning their single site into two homes, we created a dual occupancy that keeps the family together while giving each household their own space.

The design is practical and personal, shaped by what matters most to them. In this instance, our clients wanted the utmost simplicity in both these homes. Designing for simplicity means focusing on clean lines, natural light, and thoughtful details. A space that feels calm, uncluttered, and effortlessly elegant.

Minimalist Dual Occupancy

Inner West Extension

This home renovation involved the demolition of an existing cottage extension at the rear that was built in the 60s to propose a new spacious contemporary modern extension. Our client wanted their renovated home to be light and open space, in contrast to their original cottage which was dark and gloomy. 

To enhance the space, we provided a high ceiling for the full width of the extension, provided a large open sliding door opening out to the back yard, hand-selected materials and finishes such as timber, concrete and black finishes. This created contrast and depth giving the client a dramatic experience of the space. We integrated a large cantilevered roof which provided shading during summer and did not comprise the view to the yard with columns. The new bathroom and laundry rooms finishes were selected to create a theme of warmth and subtlety in the space. 


Luxury Contemporary / Leichhardt

Nathalie Scipioni Architects was approached by a couple with significant experience as building developers to sub divide an existing lot and design two standalone dwellings. The site is north facing, yet narrow; the clients engaged NSStudio to ensure that both properties received ample natural light throughout both dwellings. The brief and site required intelligent planning to maximise sun penetration and flexible living.The design mediated the desire to deliver a high-end light-filled dwelling with the need to stay within the clients set budget for the project.

The project unfolded as a collaboration between the studio and the clients which was an important element of the relationship with the developers who require a degree of control and connection to the project throughout. The outcome was a tremendous success spatially and financially, the clients have since directed additional projects to NSStudio as they want to ensure each new project can achieve the same quality.

Heritage Reframed (Paddington Heritage Conservation Area)

The original owner of this single story terrace in Paddington lived here for 40 years. It was sold in an untouched condition to a property developer.

The developer approached us initially with the intention of knocking down and rebuilding the property. However, this wasn’t going to be possible because the terrace was located in a conservation area.

Instead, on our advice, the developer opted to seek a DA to extensively renovate the property and to add a first-floor addition. Our brief for the design was to maximise the space on what was a very small site.

Our design created a modernised four bedroom home with a new kitchen and new dining and living areas.We included features such as a Juliet balcony on the rear of the property and small windows to be sympathetic to the conservation area.

The first floor extension (a master bedroom and ensuite) presented a design challenge. Council required the first floor addition not to be visible from the street. We ensured the property kept its single storey facade as well as being in character with the Paddington area. The DA was approved.

The developer sold the property with the newly approved DA to a private owner who purchased the property to live in.

Working with the new owner, we modified our original design with council approval to create the unique features she wanted in her new home.
One of the bedrooms was transformed into a spacious dining area and we designed a bigger kitchen space.

Our client was thrilled with the amount of space we could achieve, how the property exactly suited the way she wanted to live in it, and the amount of natural light filtering through skylights throughout the home.


The Blue House / Lilyfield

The rear addition to a turn of the century workers cottage in Lilyfield embraces natural lighting and open space with a clever layout which allows for 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, kitchen, living and study. The design embraces and restores where possible the remaining period features while respectfully contrasting these with a palette of new building materials, techniques and colours. 

Striking turquoise blue Pandomo flooring throughout the hallway and living spaces creates a bold yet calming statement. The timber and glass staircase acts as a sculptural element within the living room, skilfully dividing living from dining whilst still providing a visual link between the two.

The living opens up through large bi-fold doors to an outdoor entertaining deck and backyard allowing for ample natural ventilation and light. 

Rear Addition / Rozelle

The significant rear addition to an existing brick single storey dwelling in Rozelle draws inspiration from the area’s industrial past to create an attractive modern family home. The project resulted in the entire renovation of the existing dwelling as well as the construction of a new kitchen and living area downstairs, with upstairs containing a mezzanine, bedroom, master bedroom, ensuite and walk in robe. 

The use of a laser cut screen over skylight in the stairwell creates visual interest, with a continual change of pattern cast upon the stairs throughout the day. The use of laser cut screening continues to the outdoor area where it provides privacy and protection from the sun. 

A palette of polished concrete, black aluminum framed windows and deep blue kitchen create a modern interior which contrasts with the warmth of the spotted gum flooring and careful renovation of the existing dwelling, creating a contemporary family home.

Darling In Colour - Darling Point

Clarendon Interiors

Rozelle Extension & New First Floor Addition

"We hired Nathalie to redesign the rear section of our home, a semidetached Victorian residence. The project involved the demolition of kitchen, bathroom, laundry and living which was replaced by a two story addition of kitchen, bathroom (x2), bedroom, laundry and living. Nathalie's beautiful design ideas and collaborative approach resulted in a bright, stylish, spacious home. We engaged Nathalie to project manage the build which was the best decision. Nathalie's attention to detail, knowledge of product and design, and determination to achieve the best result for us, never waned. When we were exhausted, struggling to make decisions at the end, Nathalie was always there for us. I would not hesitate in recommending Nathalie and her team." 


Inner west Terrace

This was a small project with a big impact. By extending the ground plate out from the existing structure, into the rear garden and side passageway the downstairs kitchen could be opened up and flooded with light by running skylights around the perimeter of the existing structure. The success of the project is measured in the transformation of occupancy and utilization of the new kitchen/living/study space, the clients have remarked that it has become the hub of the home.

The relationship with the clients was essential to achieving the strikingly unique outcome with a rich palette of materials and finishes. A desire to avoid any surfaces that are hard underfoot lead us on an investigation for alternative soft flooring, finally we settled on cork for its durability, finish and diverse color choices. A restrained palette of blue, white and timber keeps the space visually balanced whilst avoiding glare and celebrating the material finishes. 

The Sandstone Cottage

A first floor addition to a late 1800’s sandstone workers cottage in Balmain drew its concept from the notion of transition and movement. The addition is focused around a staircase which transcends from the ground floor to the master bedroom and ensuite above. The action of moving up and down this staircase is celebrated with a large expanse of glass facing the courtyard and living room beyond.

The concept of transition, not only limited to the transition between floors is represented by the movement of shadows cast through laser cut privacy awnings and skylights. This ethereal experience changes time of the day and the seasons, providing a sense of ever changing delight. Consisting of a new master bedroom, ensuite and walk in robe located on the first floor, the new addition captures view of the North Sydney skyline. Using a palate of new materials, including terracotta external tiles on the stairwell, the addition provides a pleasing contrast between new and old, respecting the heritage of the existing cottage.

AWARD WINNER | The Courtyard House

The renovation was committed to preserving and integrating the existing cottage into the contemporary extension. This was achieved through the retention of traditional elements, such as the original stove that has been carved into the modern bathroom as a reminder of the properties history. The counterbalanced roof form of the pavilion was determined by the offset hipped roofs on the front facade to reinforce the relationship throughout the dwelling. 

The brief called for a light and open space that contrasted the defined boundaries of the original dwelling. An emphasis on transparency and openness informed the design of the rear boundary that benefits from the interplay of light reflecting from the pool. The light-well has been positioned to frame the existing jacaranda tree. Internally, a bespoke kitchen with a casual dining table integrated into the bench top encourages congregation and socialisation. 

Photography: Kat Lucas

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