I’ve been writing about interior design and architecture for more than 25 years, and I’ve been a home owner even longer. Yes, I’m among that lucky cohort that bought into the property market in the mid ’90s, when Sydney was considered one of the most desirable cities to live, thanks to both its natural attributes and its affordable prices.

But rather than buy something freshly constructed, I’ve always been drawn to the renovator’s delight, those houses with a story to tell, and reasonably intact with original features, even if they are a little worn around the edges.

As a result, I’ve also become accustomed to the sound of hammers, drills and work boots on floorboards, as I have welcomed a parade of trades to repair, restore and renovate. So I have learnt a few things about the building

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