With so much to see, do and savour across Sydney’s vibrant CBD and surrounding suburbs, Harriet — Nightworks Studio’s Sales Account Manager — shares her top picks from her recent visit. From curated boutiques and cutting-edge design to irresistible dining spots, here’s your ultimate Sydney weekend guide: Nightworks style.

Shopping

Chinatown Country Club

A treasure trove of emerging and established labels, Chinatown Country Club is a retail experience like no other. Among the thoughtfully curated selection, we spotted New Zealand’s Wynn Hamlyn alongside standout European and international brands. This multifaceted space combines a café and event-friendly apartment with art, design, architecture, music and culture, making it much more than just a shopping destination — it’s an experience.

Ganni and The Galleries

Ganni has landed in Sydney as Scandi’s first Australian concept store (with Melbourne recently following suit). This ‘fashion-girlie’ favourite has captured hearts with its vibrant, lifestyle-centric vibe. The store’s Ganni hues, paired with permanent artwork by Sydney artist Carla Uriarte, make it a must-visit. The Galleries, a haven of fashion, food and design, secured its place on our itinerary for good reason.

Swop

A treasure trove of pre-loved quality clothing, Swop is a paradise. Located on Oxford Street, this elevated yet understated space — complete with concrete floors, greenery and a nine-metre wall of dresses — invites you to hunt for hidden gems. Conveniently near our hotel (funny that!), this warehouse-style shop is perfect for slow browsing.

Hunter Candles

In the heart of Surry Hills, Hunter Candles offers a sensory journey that’s hard to resist. Tucked between two charming terraces, this quintessential Sydney brand’s new store spans two aromatic floors. From the moment we stepped in, we were captivated by the scent and inviting interiors — a testament to the transformative power of candles in any space. Plus their packaging, primo!

Interiors

District

Housed in a thoughtfully restored Darlinghurst warehouse, District showcases a curated selection of Australian, New Zealand and international furniture and design. Preserving the building’s historic charm while embracing contemporary aesthetics, this space is made for design enthusiasts (and anyone compiling a ‘must-have for my home’ list).

Jardan

Stepping into Jardan’s art-deco Sydney flagship feels like entering a luxurious retreat. With its iconic pink staircase connecting three impeccably styled levels, the store is a feast for the eyes — and the Instagram feed. We admire Jardan’s dedication to local craftsmanship, evident in every piece.

Made by Storey

This newly opened Darlinghurst showroom, a collaboration with Decus Interiors, is a love letter to timber. Sophisticated and unique, the space features standout pieces like a Trix & Robert Haussmann lounge made from mirror and aluminum, Vitali Calacatta Marble side tables, alongside artworks from Dominik Mersch Gallery. It’s a refined representation of Sydney’s design ethos.

Lo&Co

As longtime fans of Material Creative (designers of Lo&Co’s NZ space), we couldn’t miss this Woollahra retail concept. Designed by Alexander & Co., this small space packs a mighty punch by delivering an immersive experience that celebrates architectural hardware with style. The ingenious materiality and spatial planning had us brainstorming fresh display ideas for our own products.

Eat

A.P Bakery & Paramount Coffee Project

Nestled within the Paramount House precinct, this duo offers an unbeatable start to the day. Head to A.P Bakery’s rooftop for flaky pastries and sourdough, or stay in the atrium for Paramount Coffee Project’s buzzing café vibes. Pro tip: don’t skip the hashbrowns — they’re unforgettable (IYKYK).

Chin Chin

Located in the iconic Griffiths Tea Building, Chin Chin delivers bold, spicy flavors in an energetic setting. The neon pink bunny lures you in, and the dishes (Kingfish sashimi, Wagyu pad see ew, and Sticky Pork are standouts) keep you coming back. Overordering is inevitable — and entirely worth it.

Bar Copains

An intimate corner bar in Surry Hills, Bar Copains spills out onto the footpath, offering a relaxed yet refined vibe. Their curated wine list, featuring small producers and rare finds, is a highlight. We were thrilled to spot our own Code Zero sconces here, adding to the charm.

Butter

Where else can you find fried chicken, hip-hop beats, champagne and limited-edition sneakers under one roof? Butter nails the concept, serving up late-night cravings with a side of cool. Next time, we’re trying their Ramen Club.

See

MCA (Museum of Contemporary Art)

The MCA is to Sydney what the NGV is to Melbourne, showcasing cutting-edge contemporary art against the stunning backdrop of Sydney Harbour. Highlights included Primavera 2024: Young Australian Artists, MCA Collection; Artist in Focus and Isaac Julien’s cinematic installation Once Again… (Statues Never Die). We left inspired and eager to return. Watch out: the day will quickly disappear as you move between the floors.

Foster Street, Surry Hills

Deemed by us as “the coolest little street,” Foster Street is a hub for art lovers. From Piermarq* to China Heights Gallery and N.Smith, this stretch is brimming with creative energy. At China Heights (be prepared for numerous flights of stairs), we admired works by emerging Sydney artists, while N.Smith Gallery’s textile exhibition by Jordon Gogos stole the show.

Sculpture by the Sea

Spring transforms the Bondi to Tamarama Coastal Walk into an open-air gallery. Sculpture by the Sea features over 100 artworks along the two-kilometre trail, making it the world’s largest free outdoor sculpture exhibition. A Bondi bagel from Lox Stock and Barrel or an apéritif at Totti’s completes the experience.

Whether you’re a design enthusiast, a foodie or simply seeking inspiration, Sydney offers an endless array of experiences to savor. We left brimming with ideas, feeling recharged and already thinking of our next visit. If you haven’t explored these gems yet, we highly recommend adding them to your itinerary — you won’t be disappointed.

Nightworks
nightworksstudio.com.au

Troy Uleman of John McAslan + Partners comments on Sydney Metro and the importance of public transport