The Design-Lover’s Guide to… Surry Hills
I’ve always had a soft spot for Surry Hills—maybe it’s because I once lived in Surrey, Canada, and only later discovered that both places trace their names back to Surrey in England. Missing vowels aside, this inner-city suburb is one of Sydney’s most dynamic and design-forward neighbourhoods. Think historic terrace homes, converted warehouses, and cobbled laneways sitting alongside some of the city’s best design showrooms, galleries, bakeries and cafes. It’s a place where good design isn't just something you shop for—it’s part of the everyday streetscape.
That said, Surry Hills is a big neighbourhood to cover in one go, so think of this post as Part 1 of my Surry Hills design guide—a first dip into the design scene here.
Why Surry Hills is a Must-Visit for Design Enthusiasts
Architectural Significance: Wander the streets and you’ll find an eclectic mix of heritage terraces, restored industrial buildings, and sleek modern builds, making it a visual playground for anyone with an eye for design.
Curated Retail Experience: Surry Hills is packed with high-end homewares, furniture, and lifestyle showrooms, all within walking distance of each other.
A Destination Beyond Shopping: With its vibrant cafe culture, creative studios, and cultural events, Surry Hills offers far more than retail therapy.
Key Homewares & Lifestyle Brands to Explore
Here are some of the best homewares stores Sydney has to offer, all nestled in the heart of Surry Hills:
Hay
A Danish design icon, HAY blends clean lines with playful colour and functional form. From sculptural chairs to sleek trays and clever storage solutions, their showroom is a dream for lovers of contemporary design.
How to style: Don’t be afraid to mix bold hues with neutrals – HAY pieces are designed to stand out or complement, depending on how you layer them.
Euroluce
Sourcing designer lighting from around the world, Euroluce is a destination for those who appreciate innovation and elegance. Expect everything from sleek minimalist lines to avant-garde statements.
Design insight: Consider lighting at multiple levels – overhead, eye level, and low – for a layered and welcoming glow.
Arthur G
An enduring name in Australian furniture design, Arthur G offers beautifully crafted sofas, armchairs, and tables made right here in Australia. Their Surry Hills showroom is a quiet haven of quality and craftsmanship, with an emphasis on timeless silhouettes and premium materials.
Why it matters: When comfort, design, and sustainability align, the result is furniture that not only looks good but feels good for years to come.
Hunter Candles
Locally made and seriously chic, Hunter Candles blend modern aesthetics with intoxicating scents. Each candle is hand-poured and housed in vessels you’ll want to reuse.
Design insight: Don’t miss the limited edition Strand candle—a moody blend of wooden elevator, sticky almonds, and spilled whiskey. It’s as much a story as it is a scent.
Est Lighting
Sophisticated and sculptural, Est Lighting offers a curated collection of designer lighting that seamlessly bridges form and function. Their pieces range from minimal architectural fixtures to statement pendants, all thoughtfully selected to elevate contemporary spaces.
Design insight: Lighting isn’t just about illumination—it’s about atmosphere. Est’s considered designs add mood, dimension, and a sense of refinement to any interior.
Maison Balzac
Whimsical, sculptural, and unmistakably French-Australian, Maison Balzac creates objects that delight the senses—think hand-blown glassware, playful candle holders, and atmospheric scents. Each piece feels like a small moment of magic.
How to style: Add a touch of theatre to your table or shelf with a single standout object—or build a collection that feels like a still life in motion.
Mondoluce
For lighting that doubles as art, Mondoluce is a must-visit. Their carefully curated range showcases European design at its best, from architectural pendants to sculptural floor lamps.
Why it works: The right lighting transforms a room – think of it as the final brushstroke on a painting.
Mud Australia
Timeless, tactile, and unmistakably beautiful, Mud’s handmade porcelain pieces are a modern classic. Their muted palette and soft forms suit any table or shelf.
How to style: Mix and match tones across bowls, plates, and serving pieces for an effortlessly cohesive collection.
Armadillo Rugs
Rooted in sustainability and craftsmanship, Armadillo’s rugs are both luxurious and grounding. With earthy tones and natural textures, they bring a sense of calm to any room.
Styling tip: Use a rug to define zones in open-plan spaces – especially important in compact city living.
K5 Furniture
This showroom is where contemporary European design meets Australian sensibility. K5 carries furniture that balances form, function, and a little bit of flair.
Why it matters: Investing in timeless, well-made pieces means creating a home that evolves with you.
Fred International
Known for its Scandinavian curation, Fred International is all about quiet luxury and thoughtful design. Think beautifully crafted furniture, lighting, and objects that exude calm and quality. Their Surry Hills showroom is a destination in itself—elegantly styled and full of inspiration at every turn.
Styling note: Let the materials shine – pair timber with soft upholstery and natural stone for an understated yet elevated interior.
Saardé
Also with a Surry Hills presence, Saardé continues to deliver their signature relaxed elegance. Their earthy, artisanal pieces make everyday living feel considered and calm.
How to style: Use tonal layering with linens, ceramics, and timber to create a warm, grounded interior.
HAY showroom
Euroluce showroom on the left and Arthur G showroom on the right
Exterior of the Hay store on the left and exterior of Bill’s on the right
Hunter Candles on Crown Street
Mud shopfront on the left and Mondoluce showroom on the right
Maison Balzac
K5 showroom on Devonshire Street
Armadillo showroom on the left and Est Lighting showroom on the right
Fred International showroom on Nickson Street
Malika Bakehouse… one of the many bakeries in the area
Beyond Homewares: The Full Experience
Stop by Paramount Coffee Project for a beautifully brewed coffee in an equally beautiful space. And if you're visiting on a sunny day, don’t miss AP Bakery on the rooftop—it’s a hidden gem perched above the Paramount House Hotel, serving up some of the best baked goods in town with a view to match.
For a long lunch, head to Bill’s—a true Sydney institution. With its laid-back charm, light-filled interiors, and a menu that nails relaxed Australian dining (yes, the ricotta hotcakes are still a thing), it’s the perfect spot to take a design break and refuel in style.
Also, keep an eye out for the many hole-in-the-wall bakeries and casual wine bars peppered throughout the neighbourhood. Depending on where the day takes you, you might find yourself at Ace Hotel—a moody, design-forward space perfect for drinks and dinner—or heading to the opposite end of Surry Hills to check out the newly opened The Eve Hotel, a fresh addition bringing a new layer of style and hospitality to the area, with it’s own restaurants and bars including Bar Julius.
Fashion Finds: Surry Hills is just as much about personal style as it is interiors. Alongside sleek boutiques showcasing local designers, you’ll come across standout vintage and second-hand stores stocked with curated racks of pre-loved fashion. It’s a great place to hunt for something unexpected—whether it's a perfectly broken-in leather jacket or a one-of-a-kind accessory.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit
Plan Your Route: Start on Crown Street and wander your way through the grid of surrounding streets like Fitzroy, Bourke, and Albion.
What to Look For: Keep an eye out for architectural details—arched doorways, steel-framed windows, tiled entryways—and how showrooms style their storefronts.
Take Notes & Photos: Inspiration is everywhere. Snap photos of vignettes or colour palettes you love, and jot down ideas for how they could translate into your own space.
Whether you're revamping a home, designing a space, or simply soaking it all in, Surry Hills offers abundant interior design inspiration in Sydney. Bookmark this post for your next design day out—or better yet, share it with a fellow design lover who’d enjoy exploring Surry Hills too.
Have you visited? I’d love to hear what you discovered—drop a note in the comments or tag me on Instagram (@donnavercoedesign) with your favourite finds. And stay tuned for the next instalment, as there's plenty more design to explore in this ever-evolving neighbourhood.
Chicken and waffles, and coffee at Paramount Coffee Project on Commonwealth Street
AP Bakery on the top of the Paramount Coffee Project on Commonwealth Street
Ace Hotel on Wentworth Street
The Eve Hotel on Baptist Street
Want to make the most of your design showroom visits? Check out the guide on How to Navigate Design Showrooms for expert tips on how to explore, engage, and find the perfect pieces for your space. Whether you're a seasoned designer or just starting out, this post will help you approach showrooms with confidence and make smarter, more informed design decisions.
