Deb Brennan owned the c1900 double-fronted cottage at 1 Reynolds Ave, Rozelle, as an investment property before deciding to move in herself five and a half years ago.
"I wanted to live in it, it's a such a lovely house," she says.
The university professor undertook a major renovation in 2016, engaging local Balmain architect (and friend) John Greenwood to design a contemporary two-storey extension which includes Ms Brennan's dream kitchen, a dining room that opens on to a courtyard, and an upstairs master bedroom, bathroom and walk-in wardrobe.
"It's a such a peaceful, beautiful home, filled with fresh air and sunshine, and with a northerly aspect so we have beautiful light in the house," Ms Brennan says.
Because Ms Brennan loves having people to stay, the architect also designed a private space downstairs incorporating a front bedroom and bathroom, with guests top of mind.
"The house is perfect for a couple, and I've had young relatives living with me at various times, so it's also ideal for a couple with a child, or with a young family."
There is plenty of space for kids - and puppies for that matter - to run around in the expansive, fully-fenced front yard, where the low-maintenance garden has had a lot of love in the past five years.
At 369 square metres It is an unusually big block for the area and across the front yard's large terrace - ideal for entertaining - is a stunning view of the city.
Back inside, Ms Brennan says the bespoke joinery and the hoop pine panelling in the bedroom's curved ceiling are special features. Many subtle details contribute to a fuss-free daily existence - like the under-stair storage and the fact that the barbecue in the sandstone-paved courtyard is plumbed to the mains gas.
The property also has attic storage, and a huge garage big enough for two cars plus a trailer or a boat.
"John Greenwood thought of everything to make the house liveable and comfortable without it being showy," Ms Brennan says
"One thing we really invested in was beautiful, quality joinery that is very subtle, it doesn't scream at you, and there is endless storage - I haven't been able to use it all.
"It is just such a beautiful house - it has been there since the beginning of the 20th century so over the years a number of people have had the opportunity to live in it, to have their families, and their romantic adventures, and now it is somebody else's turn."
Ms Brennan is selling up in order to downsize to an apartment and will be staying in the area, having lived on the peninsula since 1974.
"I am a real Balmainy, and I love it," she says.
AUCTION: March 12, 2022
Price guide: $3.5 million
Agent: Mcgrath Sales Agents
Cindy Kennedy, 0404 000 570
