Home Away From Home: Fairlight Maison is transformed from workers' cottage to boutique homestay

It may be argued that the best kind of homes are the ones that are rich in both history and character. One that has many stories to tell, and one that sparks interest beginning at the front door – such is the sentiment inspired by Fairlight Maison.

Located within Fairlight, a leafy harbourside suburb of Sydney’s northern beaches, this remarkable home was formerly a workers’ cottage, built in the 1860s. Today, the heritage-listed sandstone semi has undergone a loving renovation, transforming it into a remarkable homestay.

The cottage’s sandstone walls first catch the eye, followed closely by the charming sky blue front door, enticing guests to walk on through and peek inside. And once you do, you’ll soon admire the beautiful blend of old-world charm and modern touches, complementing each other in perfect harmony.

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On one hand, there’s the exposed sandstone walls that continue inside, along with the original fireplace, the European oak floorboards, milled from beams that came from a 150-year-old Croatian farmhouse, as well as clusters of carefully curated vintage finds, collected from travels near and far.

Contemporary creature comforts are also present, perhaps most evident in the main bathroom – uniquely, the biggest room in the house – featuring custom-made cement basins, oversized windows with a switch glass feature, and a large free-standing bathtub.

Journeying from room to room it’s as if you’re reading a new chapter from a captivating book. One moment, you’re in the living room, cosying up by the fireplace, the next, you’re walking up the stairs toward the main bedroom, opening up the french doors and admiring the view from the balcony.

And before you know it, you’re climbing another set of stairs, this time a mysterious glass spiral one, impressed by the attic space that has been transformed into a second bedroom.

Meanwhile, outside there’s a whole different story unfolding, with bifold doors from the dining room leading to a cosy outdoor courtyard complete with an elevated plunge pool.

Fairlight Maison combines the best of the old and the new, and you’ll feel glad to have basked in both.

While in Fairlight

Manly to Shelly Beach walk

Take the short but scenic 15-minute walk beginning at the Manly Surf Club, hugging the coastline, all the way around to Shelly Beach. Afterwards, stroll up to the lookout on the headland for amazing views back over the northern beaches.

Manly ferry

Take the 30-minute ferry ride between Manly Cove and Circular Quay in the late afternoon to catch the sun setting over the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Get a spot on the top deck or on the bow to capture the best views.

Rollers

If you love croissants, pastries, and damn good coffee, head on over to Rollers bakery, tucked behind The Corso in nearby Manly. The long queue should tell you all you need
to know.

Manly Greenhouse

For a summer afternoon tipple, head to Manly Greenhouse, where you’ll find a sun-drenched rooftop bar, spoilt with panoramic ocean views. The venue also houses a casual eatery and a restaurant onsite.