Five of Sydney’s best homes that have stood the test of time

There’s something special about an older home, one from a different era, with a sense of timelessness, character, history, good bones and quality workmanship.

From Gothic, Georgian, Federation, Tudor, art deco and mid-century modern to Californian bungalows, here are five of the best homes in Sydney that have stood the test of time and are now for sale.

262 Johnston Street, Annandale, NSW

This restored late-Victorian Gothic home is one of only three remaining “witches houses” in Annandale.

Known as “Highroyd”, the six-bedroom, four-level home, originally built in 1886 by renowned master builder John Young, is a National Trust Excellence Award winner, having taken out the 2009 Heritage Trust Commendation Award.

Restored in the late 1980s by its current owners in collaboration with David Springett of Paragrid Architects, the conservation work included stonework, verandahs, gargoyles, stained glass and tessellated tiles.

The home features a wine cellar, a library, an observation spire with city views, an indoor swimming pool and multiple living zones.

23 West Street, North Sydney

Located near St Leonards Park, this Victorian home in North Sydney was built about 1883.

“The Colchester” features an iron lacework balcony and, inside, the home has been renovated by Rockpool Studios Design and rebuilt by JT Construct, with careful preservation of the original craftsmanship.

The garden has been landscaped by The Palms Sydney.

The property also features a wine cellar, skylights, a rooftop garden, a Monet Calacatta marble kitchen and a custom barbecue entertaining area.

196 Queen Street, Ashfield, NSW

This Californian bungalow sits on about 1206 square metres in Ashfield.

The home welcomes you with its period façade while, inside, an open-plan living and dining area features soaring ceilings that capture the natural light and create a sense of spaciousness.

There is an al fresco dining area at the rear, with landscaped gardens, a swimming pool and a garden pavilion.

The home also features a secure garage, ducted air-conditioning and plantation shutters, and is within walking distance of Yeo Park and Ashfield Mall.

127 Pittwater Road, Manly, NSW

This early-1900s cottage has been architecturally transformed to preserve its original character while accommodating contemporary living.

Period features of the home include timber flooring, high ceilings, a tessellated-tile front porch, picture rails, ceiling roses, original brickwork and large bedrooms, one with an original fireplace.

The contemporary kitchen features stone benchtops, engineered flooring and modern appliances.

Outside, there is a covered al fresco terrace with a fan, a gas cooktop and an electric blind.

The home is close to Harris Farm Markets, eateries, schools and public transport.

158 Underwood Street, Paddington, NSW

This three-level Victorian terrace is in one of Paddington’s most sought-after pockets, a quiet neighbourhood close to Oxford Street and within walking distance of the Sydney CBD.

It combines timeless period features, including ornate fireplaces and timber floorboards, with modern updates such as a contemporary kitchen with stone benchtops, a flexible layout and quality appliances and finishes.

The property has a northerly frontage, 2½ bathrooms, three bedrooms, a rear courtyard and ample integrated storage.

There is also a top-floor space that can be used as a retreat, office or bedroom.