THE CORNER SHOP HOUSE
Designed around the movement of the sun, as seen in The Local Project
Designed around the movement of the sun, The Corner Shop House is a refined reinterpretation of an 1880s terrace in Sydney’s Camperdown. The building houses a commercial space at street level and a private residence above, balancing heritage with contemporary intervention. Created by Downie North Architects, layers of old and new unfold through light, materiality and form.
Featuring SS-DIN03BR 120
Originally an 1880s terrace and later a much-loved corner shop, the building held strong ties to its neighbourhood. Rather than erase that history, Downie North chose to retain the original brick facade, carefully inserting a new structure within. The result is a home that feels both contemporary and lived-in.
The home unfolds vertically. Living spaces are oriented north, drawing in light and outlook, while the upper level is nestled among the surrounding trees, offering a sense of retreat. Light is central to the design, informing every gesture throughout the home - from clerestory windows to the sculptural oculus skylight above.
Featuring SS-DIN03BR 120
“You’re always aware of the quality of the
daylight. You rise with the sun.”
Daniel North, Co-Founder of Downie North Architects
Throughout the interior, exposed brickwork, timber and terracotta-toned metalwork create cohesion and depth, allowing the architecture to lead. Inside, a pared-back yet warm palette of natural finishes and thoughtful detailing sets the tone.
At the heart of the home sits the open dining area, anchored by our SS-DIN03BR Dining Table - positioned as a place for gathering, movement and connection within the space.
“If you consider each element individually, they’re all very bold, but it all feels like the same family and works well together.”
Catherine Downie, Co-Founder of Downie North Architects
The Corner Shop House reads as contemporary and forward-thinking while proudly acknowledging its past. As North reflects:
“The best cities are those with layers in them - you can read what’s been added over time and see the story of a place.”
Design: Downie North
Photography: Clinton Weaver
Styling: Room on Fire
Seen In: The Local Project
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