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Surry Hills Terrace Gets A Bold Renovation

An 1880s Victorian terrace in Surry Hills has emerged from an extensive two-year renovation that transforms the once-unliveable property into a colour-rich family home. Studio George director Dean Williams led the project, which reimagines the heritage building for owners transitioning from apartment living.

The property, which had remained untouched since a 1970s renovation stripped away its original Victorian details, now features:

A distinctive lavender-blue facade
A new rear living pavilion finished in terracotta pink
Custom brick pillars supporting the pavilion design
Mustard joinery and yellow splashback in the kitchen
Timber-framed glass doors opening to courtyard gardens

The renovation, which took one year to design and one year to build, required close collaboration with rendering specialists to achieve the seamless material transition from walls to roof. Interior features include a blue ceiling, paper lantern pendants, and limestone tile borders framing spotted gum flooring.

The upper level houses a bedroom, study, and family bathroom, unified by deep blue colour schemes. According to Williams, the design prioritised material and colour experimentation to fulfil the owners’ request for a home that could “heighten their mood.”

The project drew inspiration from Mexican architect Luis Barragan’s work, particularly in its approach to colour-blocked forms. As the surrounding gardens mature, they will integrate with the living spaces, creating green views from all sides of the property.

Published 27-October-2024

Surry Hills Outshone? Chippendale Now Australia’s ‘Coolest’ Neighbourhood

Photo Credit: Zigi’s Wine Bar

Surry Hills may be known for its trendy cafes and bustling atmosphere, but a surprising contender has stolen the spotlight as Australia’s “coolest” neighbourhood.

Chippendale neighbourhood — *Photo Credit:* *White Gallery Rabbit/ Facebook*

Timeout Magazine, in its annual ranking of the world’s most vibrant locales, has placed Chippendale at the top of the Australian list, even beating out internationally renowned districts like New York’s Flatbush and Berlin’s Friedrichshain. This unexpected victory has sparked conversation and raised eyebrows amongst Sydneysiders, with many questioning how this inner-city suburb surpassed its well-established neighbours.

Timeout’s selection process considered various factors, including street culture, food options, nightlife, and artistic connections. While Chippendale may have flown under the radar for some, Timeout Sydney Editor Alice Ellis highlighted its recent transformation. She noted that while many enjoyed cocktails in nearby Surry Hills, Chippendale was quietly developing into a lively, community-focused hub.

This evolution is evident in the diverse range of activities available. Alongside acclaimed restaurants like Ester, residents and visitors can enjoy a variety of experiences, from attending concerts at Phoenix (accessible through a free ballot system) to exploring quirky art galleries. The suburb also boasts a gamer’s paradise called Fortress, an always-open Asian food market, and some of the city’s most unique pubs that champion live music and comedy.

Small public parks and a weekly farmers’ market further contribute to the village-like atmosphere enjoyed by residents and students from the two universities surrounding this unassuming yet dynamic suburb.

This shift is also evident in the suburb’s diverse offerings. Its proximity to three major universities has made it a student haven, with popular pubs and bars like the Lansdowne, Abercrombie, and Lord Gladstone drawing crowds. Each venue exudes a unique “edginess” with its dark decor, rooftop spaces, and emphasis on the local music scene, showcasing both bands and DJs.

Art is another cornerstone of Chippendale’s appeal. Galleries abound, showcasing a range of styles. The suburb boasts renowned spaces like Judith Nelson’s “White Rabbit” gallery, which focuses on contemporary Chinese art. Others include Nanda/Hobbs, Peach Black, and the Harrington Street Gallery, all offering accessible and modern exhibitions.

For those planning a trip to Sydney, Chippendale will be a key player in the upcoming SXSW (South by Southwest) festival. Previously held exclusively in Austin, Texas, this “festival for the curious” is coming to Sydney this October, with Chippendale hosting various events and activations.

Despite its vibrant character, Chippendale’s “coolest” title has been met with mixed reactions. Some locals expressed their surprise on social media, reflecting on the suburb’s past and acknowledging its significant evolution. Others questioned the decision, pointing to larger, more established suburbs like Paddington, Newtown, and Surry Hills, each with unique charm and appeal.

Chippendale wasn’t the only Australian neighbourhood to make a splash. Melbourne’s Windsor secured a respectable 10th place, surpassing other popular areas like Brunswick and Fitzroy. Known for its vintage clothing stores and diverse culinary scene, Windsor’s inclusion highlights the city’s unique blend of fashion and food.

Perth’s Northbridge and Adelaide’s Norwood also earned spots on the list. Northbridge, home to Perth’s Chinatown and a thriving arts scene, including the WA Art Gallery and WA State Theatre, secured 21st place. Norwood, often compared to Sydney’s Leichhardt, claimed the 35th spot with its acclaimed Italian restaurants, cellar doors, gin distilleries, and micro-breweries.

While the “coolest” label is subjective, Chippendale’s recognition underscores its transformation into a dynamic and engaging destination.

Its blend of student life, artistic expression, and unique nightlife has captured Timeout’s attention, placing it firmly on the map as a must-visit destination in Sydney.

Published Date 22-October-2024

Three Hospitalised After Chemical Explosion at University of Sydney

A chemical explosion at the University of Sydney has resulted in the hospitalisation of three people after acid-based chemicals being moved for disposal reacted and caused a vapour cloud.

The incident occurred on Tuesday, 15 October 2024, near the university’s Sports and Aquatic Centre in Darlington.

According to Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW), a staff member was transporting chemicals when a reaction occurred, leading to an explosion. The worker, along with two nearby contractors, was exposed to the vapour cloud and taken to Royal Prince Alfred Hospital for treatment.

Emergency Response and Hospitalisation

Emergency services, including paramedics and specialist HAZMAT teams, were called to the scene shortly before 10am after reports of a person suffering chemical burns. FRNSW firefighters immediately set up an exclusion zone and called for HAZMAT assistance to secure and decontaminate the area.

One individual sustained burns to their hands, while the two other individuals were hospitalised as a precaution due to possible inhalation of fumes. All three people were transported to the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, located in Sydney’s inner west, and are reported to have suffered minor injuries.

Safety Precautions and Ongoing Investigations

NSW Fire and Rescue has confirmed that the chemicals were being moved for disposal when the reaction occurred. While the exact nature of the chemicals remains unclear, it has been confirmed that the explosion produced a vapour cloud. According to one report, the employee transporting the chemicals had been using an umbrella to shield the substances at the time of the reaction.

Both SafeWork and the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) have been notified of the incident and are expected to review the matter. The university has advised that anyone in the area who may have been exposed to the chemicals should seek medical advice immediately if experiencing symptoms such as skin or eye irritation or respiratory discomfort.

Community Advisory

The University of Sydney issued a statement advising members of its community, especially those present near the Sydney Uni Sports and Aquatic Centre and Services Building on the morning of the incident, to monitor for any symptoms of exposure. The university has expressed relief that no serious injuries were reported but continues to encourage caution and medical consultation for anyone concerned.

The area was successfully decontaminated following analysis by specialist teams, and it has since been deemed safe.

Published 17-Oct-2024

Onigiri Reimagined: Mogu Mogu Brings Japanese Comfort Food to Surry Hills

Sydney has been experiencing a surge in onigiri cafes lately, and one of them is making waves in the heart of Surry Hills. Mogu Mogu, a charming new eatery, is riding the crest of this culinary trend, offering a unique twist on the beloved Japanese rice ball.

Read: 170 Grammi Brings Carbonara Pizza to Surry Hills

Opened in June 2024, Mogu Mogu is the brainchild of Janny Sy and Alen Ng, a married couple who moved from Hong Kong to Sydney four years ago. The name “Mogu Mogu,” meaning “chewing or munching on” in Japanese, perfectly encapsulates the experience they offer.

Despite its small size—seating only around 10 people—Mogu Mogu packs a big punch in terms of flavour and variety. The intimate setting allows diners to fully immerse themselves in the onigiri experience.

A Rotating Menu of Delights

To keep things fresh and exciting, Mogu Mogu announced they will have new flavours every quarter for both their standard and specialty onigiri lineup.

Mogu Mogu boasts an impressive range of onigiri options. Their menu features 12 ready-to-go flavours, including unique combinations like nanko-ume plum with shiso and marinated onsen egg. For those seeking a more premium experience, made-to-order specialties such as the flame-grilled M9 wagyu are available.

The cafe also takes pride in reinventing classic flavours. Their Tuna Mayo Onigiri, for instance, comes with a delicate onion sauce twist, breathing new life into this timeless favourite. Among their innovative creations, the Plum Onigiri 2.0 stands out, featuring honey-marinated ume at its core for an explosion of flavour.

Their drink menu features viridescent iced matcha and mellow, chocolatey hojicha, both made with imported Uji Kyoto powders and prepared traditionally.

For those with a sweet tooth, Mogu Mogu has collaborated with renowned cake maker Clifford Luu to create a heavenly, alcohol-free Tiramisu. This dessert offering rounds out the menu, ensuring that patrons can enjoy a complete dining experience from start to finish.

Read: Humble Bakery in Surry Hills Voted Best Finger Bun in Australia

With its commitment to quality, innovation, and authenticity, Mogu Mogu is not just riding the wave of Sydney’s onigiri trend—it’s helping to define it. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Japanese cuisine or new to the world of onigiri, Mogu Mogu offers a unique and delightful dining experience that’s not to be missed.

Published 11-October-2024

$11-Million Redevelopment Approved for Crown Street, Surry Hills

A major redevelopment worth nearly $11 million has been approved for 598-610 Crown Street in Surry Hills, marking a significant step forward in transforming the area with new retail and commercial spaces.

Redevelopment Plans

The redevelopment (D/2023/902), designed by PTW Architects, will see the demolition of existing buildings at 598-602 Crown Street and partial demolition of the structures at 604-610 Crown Street. These sites will be replaced with a three-storey commercial development that combines modern architecture with respect for the area’s unique character.

The ground floor will feature six separate retail tenancies, while the upper levels will be dedicated to open-plan commercial offices. Additionally, the site will retain a central Jacaranda tree, which will be incorporated into a new outdoor courtyard area.

Crown Street Surry Hills — *Photo Credit: D/2023/902/City Of Sydney*

This proposal exceeded the local building height restriction of 12 metres, with the new structure reaching a maximum height of 13.57 metres. Despite this, the variation was granted due to the proposal’s minimal impact on surrounding properties and its alignment with the broader goals for the neighbourhood’s growth.

Local Impact and Heritage Considerations

Surry Hills has seen significant revitalisation over the past few years, and Crown Street has become the centre of this transformation. The addition of popular hospitality venues, such as Oakberry and Shuk, has contributed to the street’s growing reputation as a vibrant, trendy strip.

This new development continues that trend, with local residents and businesses seeing it as part of the area’s larger evolution. Community members say the changes represent a “new era” for Surry Hills.

However, the redevelopment also aims to preserve the area’s historical character. The project retains key heritage elements, such as the facade and internal structures of the 604-610 Crown Street buildings, contributing to the heritage conservation area.

Extensive consultation between developers, heritage consultants, and the community led to multiple design revisions. These changes addressed concerns related to overshadowing, heritage impacts, and construction disruptions to ensure the project fits within the local conservation guidelines.

*Photo Credit: D/2023/902/City Of Sydney*

Community and Environmental Focus

The new commercial precinct is part of a broader plan to make Surry Hills a greener and more sustainable neighbourhood. The building will include environmentally friendly features such as rooftop solar panels, water-efficient systems, and bike storage facilities. These initiatives align with the City of Sydney’s sustainability goals, which aim to reduce the area’s carbon footprint and promote eco-friendly transportation options.

Public spaces will also be improved as part of the project. The outdoor courtyard, centred around the preserved Jacaranda tree, will offer a communal area for both visitors and workers in the precinct. The design balances modern commerce and maintaining the natural elements that make Crown Street a lively, pedestrian-friendly area.

This redevelopment represents the latest step in Crown Street’s ongoing transformation.

Published 9-Oct-2024

Stasia’s Surry Hills Development Adds to Growing Commercial Hub

Photo Credit: CityOfSydney

Surry Hills is set for a new commercial development as Stasia Holdings pushes forward with its plans for a 10-storey office tower at 232-240 Elizabeth Street.

Despite initial delays, the project has gained momentum with adding an extra level, bringing the total commercial space to over 6,300 square metres.

The proposal, designed by Candalepas Associates, recently underwent community consultation with the City of Sydney following a Gateway Determination. This extra storey boosts the floor space by 2000 square metres and significantly increases the building’s capacity.

A new laneway will connect Reservoir Street with Foster Lane, adding to the development’s appeal and improving pedestrian access and connectivity across the site. The project will also see the demolition of five existing terrace buildings, which have been heavily modified over time to accommodate a strip of shops.

The development’s location within a designated employment cluster further strengthens its potential. The Surry Hills area is already known for its concentration of businesses in sectors such as health, education, creative industries, and professional services.

This project marks another significant investment in Surry Hills by Stasia Holdings, which has been actively developing properties in the area. Their portfolio includes projects at 117 Flinders Street, 163-171 Oxford Street near Darlinghurst, and The Porterhouse at 233 Riley Street.

The company recently completed Foveaux HQ, a commercial space leased to Safety Culture, a software start-up. Safety Culture’s founder has admired established tech companies like Atlassian and Canva, which have a strong presence in the area.

Canva’s new headquarters on Kippax Street, with its unique design reflecting the company’s culture, was unveiled earlier this year. Meanwhile, Atlassian’s Tech Central tower is being built, with minor modifications underway.

Stasia’s Elizabeth Street development joins the growing number of commercial projects reshaping Surry Hills. As Tech Central welcomes its first tenants, this latest addition is poised to solidify the suburb’s status as a thriving business hub.

Published Date 01-October-2024

Ellison Studios Launches ‘The Rental’ at the Historic Edwards & Co Building

A furniture brand has launched “The Rental,” an innovative loft-style space in Surry Hills. Occupying an entire floor of the heritage Edwards & Co building, this immersive living experience marks a significant pivot for the social media-savvy brand.

Read: $5.2-Million Revamp to Transform Former Surry Hills Church into Culinary and Business Hub

The Rental transforms the 1926 Edwards & Co building into a contemporary haven that pays homage to its industrial past while embracing modern design sensibilities. As visitors step out of the elevator directly into the living room, they are immediately struck by the space’s New York loft-like ambiance.

Ellison Studio’s design team has masterfully utilised the building’s existing architecture, incorporating nooks and hidden staircases to maximise the floor plan and create distinct living areas. The colour palette draws inspiration from the urban landscape, with rich browns and terracotta tones enveloping the space and complementing the glow of city lights visible through expansive windows.

Tactile experiences are at the forefront of The Rental’s design philosophy. Warm, inviting materials such as natural wool, walnut, and faux furs have been carefully curated to encourage human connection and comfort. These elements work in harmony to create an environment that feels both luxurious and lived-in.

Coinciding with The Rental’s launch is the debut of Ellison Studios’ latest furniture piece, the Stack sofa. This playful design, inspired by childhood pillow forts, exemplifies the brand’s commitment to functional yet whimsical home furnishings.

Leigh McKeown, CEO and co-founder of Ellison Studio, emphasised that The Rental represents a significant shift for the brand. She revealed this was their first foray into a more offline presentation.

“While sharing content online is amazing, sharing this space with our friends, collaborators and clients is bringing with it a deeper sense of connection and community. In a way, it’s our modern-day share house – though much nicer than the ones I experienced when I was younger. Though temporary, we very much hope this space will leave lasting memories for all who visit,” McKeown shared.

Read: Surry Hills Welcomes Bistronomie by OK: A Parisian Dream on Crown Street

For design enthusiasts and potential customers, The Rental offers an exclusive opportunity to preview upcoming Ellison Studios pieces before they hit the market. With new items set to launch from October onwards, visitors will have a front-row seat to the brand’s latest innovations in home furnishings.

Published 30-September-2024

Moore Park Entertainment Plans Scaled Back After Resident Backlash

Ambitious plans to revitalise Moore Park’s Entertainment Quarter have been significantly downsized following a wave of objections from nearby residents.

The proposal, which initially envisioned hosting community markets, live music events, and food stalls with a capacity of 8,000 people, has been reduced to accommodate just 3,000 attendees.

The project, run by the well-known businessmen John Singleton and Gerry Harvey’s Carsingha Investments, aimed to give the Entertainment Quarter’s underused areas new life.

Moore Park — *Photo Credit: Screengrab from Google Map*

This response has drawn criticism from those who believe the concerns are overblown.

City of Sydney Cr Lyndon Gannon expressed his disappointment, highlighting the proximity of the Entertainment Quarter to the Sydney Cricket Ground, a venue accustomed to hosting large-scale events. He emphasised the need for Sydney to regain its vibrancy and argued that restricting entertainment options is counterproductive.

Melissa Neighbour, co-founder of Sydney YIMBY, also expressed surprise at the negative feedback, particularly given the area’s relatively high average income. She suggested that a desire for quiet evenings may contribute to Sydney’s nightlife’s decline.

In response to the objections, the City of Sydney engaged in discussions with Carsingha Investments and reviewed numerous public submissions.

With its reduced capacity, the revised proposal is expected to be approved at a council meeting, subject to strict conditions. These conditions include a 10 pm curfew for music, a ban on subwoofer speakers, and requirements for crowd control measures to minimise disruption to the neighbourhood.

Michael Hodgson, CEO of The Entertainment Quarter, remains optimistic about finding a resolution that satisfies all parties. He stressed that the proposal aims to create more daily activities and attractions within the precinct.

Published Date 27-September-2024

Surry Hills Bistro Serves Up the Best Burger in Australia

Photo Credit: The Gidley/ Instagram

A seemingly simple burger from a beloved Surry Hills bar has been named the best in Australia and the ninth best in the world.

The Gidley Burger, found at The Rover, a bustling neighbourhood venue on Campbell Street, has garnered a loyal following despite its minimalist approach—a double beef patty, cheddar cheese, and pickles nestled in a milk bun.

The Rover, part of the Liquid & Larder group, has been a Surry Hills staple for over a decade. Known for its warm and inviting atmosphere, the venue boasts a cosy, dimly lit interior, a copper-topped bar, an extensive drinks menu featuring classic cocktails and a curated wine list focusing on organic and biodynamic drops.

Executive Chef Pip Pratt, the creator of the Gidley Burger, believes the key to its success lies in its simplicity in this charming setting. He explained that the focus is on quality ingredients and careful preparation rather than an overload of toppings that can result in a messy eating experience.

He highlighted that the beef patties are sourced from Liquid & Larder’s butchery, ensuring complete control over the flavour profile.

The Gidley Burger takes approximately four minutes to prepare. The patties are cooked in rendered beef fat for an added depth of flavour. While the $26 price tag might raise eyebrows for some, Chef Pratt emphasises the premium quality of the ingredients and the thought behind the burger’s construction.

Hundreds of Gidley Burgers are sold weekly at The Rover and its sister establishment, The Gidley, a testament to its popularity. Despite its seemingly basic design, the Gidley Burger has struck a chord with Sydney’s burger enthusiasts.

Published Date 27-September-2024

Swans vs Lions: Dominant Sydney Look to End AFL Grand Final Woes

Minor premiers Sydney Swans will look to cap off their dominant season with a grand final victory against a resilient Brisbane Lions outfit on Saturday, 28 September, and break their recent grand final curse. Swans vs Lions kick off 2:30 p.m. at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Read: Surry Hills to Host Free Street Festival as Part of Sydney’s Neighbourhood Celebration Series

One for history

This year’s grand final marks a significant milestone in AFL history—a rematch 125 years in the making. The last time these two clubs faced off for the flag was in 1899, when they were known as South Melbourne and Fitzroy.

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A post shared by Sydney Swans (@sydneyswans)

Now, as the Sydney Swans and Brisbane Lions, they’ll battle for supremacy in the first grand final since 2006 to not feature a Victorian team.

The pre-game entertainment, headlined by international pop star Katy Perry, is expected to start between 1:00 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. Fans can catch the action live on Channel Seven and 7Plus.

Swans vs Lions

The Swans have been a force to be reckoned with throughout the 2024 season, finishing with an impressive 17-6 record and claiming the minor premiership in dominant fashion.

Their preliminary final performance against Port Adelaide showcased their full potential, with a commanding 14.11 (95) to 8.11 (59) victory against a team that finished just four points behind.

While the Swans enter as minor premiers, they’ll be wary of their recent record against the Lions. Brisbane has won the last three encounters, including a narrow two-point victory earlier this season.

An All-Australian midfield trio

The Swans’ midfield hydra of Isaac Heeney, Chad Warner, and Errol Gulden has been the lynchpin of the team’s success. All three earned All-Australian selection and have combined for an impressive 82 goals this season.

Sydney’s performance in the grand final hinges on the trio, with the Swans boasting a 15-2 record when the bevy scores three or more goals collectively.

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A post shared by Sydney Swans (@sydneyswans)

However, Sydney faces a significant blow with captain Callum Mills ruled out due to a hamstring strain. Coach John Longmire made the difficult decision on Wednesday not to risk Mills, leaving the Swans without their on-field leader for the grand final.

Read: Surry Hills Rises: $41m Hotel to Emerge from Ashes of Historic Hat Factory

Both teams carry the weight of recent grand final defeats. The Swans are looking to bounce back from their 2022 loss, while the Lions aim to overcome their heartbreaking four-point defeat in 2023.

While the Swans have a more recent premiership than the Lions, having won in 2012, they’ve experienced the sting of defeat in three deciders since then. This match presents a golden opportunity for Sydney to break their grand final voodoo once and for all.

Published 25-September-2024