Unbelievable Transformation: How Antonia Created a Dream Home in the Sky
Imagine waking up to a breathtaking view of Sydney Harbour, a sight that once seemed unattainable. Antonia O’Doherty and her husband, Sean, have achieved the extraordinary, transforming their apartment into a luxurious haven with an extra bedroom and a view to die for.
This story is a testament to the power of vision and perseverance. Antonia, a stay-at-home mom, and Sean, a director at Princess Yachts, have crafted a home that many apartment owners can only envy. Their elegant three-bedroom apartment in Vaucluse is now up for sale, and it's a true masterpiece.
But here's where it gets controversial... The couple embarked on a bold renovation, adding an entire upper level. This ambitious project, costing around $1 million, involved juggling trades and materials, a challenge many homeowners can relate to. The result? A stunning third bedroom, a new balcony, and a postcard-perfect vista of Sydney's iconic landmarks.
When they purchased the property five years ago, it was a single-level apartment with a quaint charm. However, the tight floor plan hid a secret - an incredible potential for expansion. Antonia describes it as a hidden gem, a house-like experience in an unexpected package.
In 2022, with the help of architect Angus Donald, they transformed the vacant roof space into a luxurious extension. The new master bedroom is a dream, with a Juliet balcony, a spacious walk-in robe, and harbor views. The marble bathroom is a work of art, featuring dual showers and a soaking tub. It's a true sanctuary in the sky.
One of the key challenges was obtaining council approval. Woollahra Council took around eight months to approve the project, and the couple had to navigate a lengthy process with strata and the owners' corporation. But the effort was worth it, as the second level now sits seamlessly behind the gabled roofline, respecting the facade.
Antonia shares, "It feels like you're in the clouds when you wake up. It's a truly special room." And she's right! The attic conversion is a brilliant way to maximize space, and many people don't realize this potential.
On the first floor, the sunroom made way for a balcony, offering an enviable northern outlook and harbor views. The dining room and polished kitchen flow seamlessly, with a bar featuring rattan and imported Portuguese tiles. The intricate steel balustrade staircase leads to a study, a hidden laundry, and a steel-framed door separating the front rooms from the main living areas.
The interior design is inspired by the couple's favorite European destinations, with a Mediterranean touch. Antonia's love for interior design shines through, creating a holiday-like atmosphere with the harbor and ocean views.
Listing agent Christophe Serrao describes the apartment as a rare find, with every element bespoke and finished to an exceptional standard. It's attracting young professional couples who are seeking an alternative to traditional houses.
"It offers the same space as many semis in the area but is renovated to a far higher degree," Serrao says. "This is the perfect alternative for those seeking a home without the multi-million-dollar price tag."
As the O’Doherty family prepares to move on, they leave behind a custom sanctuary filled with beautiful memories. Antonia will miss her tea-time views of the ferries, the little details that made this home so special.
So, what do you think? Is this an inspiring transformation or a controversial alteration? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments! Could you see yourself living in a dream home like this?
