Why a futuristic cottage in Balmain is our house of the week

This southern pocket of Balmain is rapidly becoming the go-to area for high-end architecture that celebrates the suburb’s history while simultaneously ushering in thoroughly modern spaces.

Last year, a cutting-edge Carter Williamson warehouse conversion in Beattie Street sold for $5 million, further down the street a new SJB-designed residence was snapped up for nearly $4 million.

Enter 20 Evans Street, a brilliantly transformed, freestanding timber property that dishes up glamour and charm in equal measure.

Set back from the street, the home has a white picket fence, tiled forecourt and a traditional bullnose verandah, and presents as the quintessential Balmain cottage.

Inside it’s a different vibe altogether, as the architecture shoots us forward in time. You’ll find bathrooms with frameless glass rain showers, black tapware and skylights, and an overwhelmingly contemporary feel.

The slick kitchen is almost futuristic. It has a 3.5 square-metre Statuario marble island and custom cabinetry in stainless steel and hand-painted finishes.

Keen cooks will appreciate the Bora-induction cooktop with down-draft extractor a Bosch oven and integrated fridge/freezer and dishwasher

The adjoining living space has a dramatic five-metre-high ceiling and steps up to a dining zone and balcony. Here, the steel-framed windows and doors are a highlight.

They also feature in the downstairs living room, which opens onto an east-facing court garden with water feature and built-in seating.

• Related: Understated, Victorian or sleek: Sydney gems
• Related: Climate-savvy features Sydney homebuyers want
• Related: House of the week: Going bush never looked so good

Upstairs, both bedrooms have vaulted ceilings, with the main gazing down onto the living room through a glass wall. The third bedroom at the front of the house would work well as a home office. 

Adrian Oddi, of BresicWhitney Balmain, is currently marketing the property. 

“It’s a beautiful renovation; the presentation is exquisite,” says Oddi, who points to the property’s steel doors, ceiling height and main suite as standout features. 

You can expect this one to be snapped up for around $2.2 million at its March 17 auction.

Download the Domain app for more interesting Sydney listings