A humble sandstone semi-detached house in Fairlight, known as Fairlight Maison, which has stood for over 160 years, is now for sale, marking the end of an era for its long-time owner.
The heritage-listed property has been a quiet constant in the community, its hand-chipped walls having witnessed over a century and a half of local history. Jay Jay Nguyen, who has called Fairlight Maison home for the past 25 years, shared that the house has been far more than just a residence; it has been a companion, a place where love, life, and memories have layered over time.
She described her initial encounter with the house when it was in disrepair, noting that beneath the dated interior was a deep warmth from the sandstone, the movement of light through the rooms, and a sense that the place held a significant story.
A Journey of Renovation and Restoration
Nguyen and her late husband, Paul, embarked on a series of renovations to restore and enhance the property. Their initial plans to fix a collapsing ceiling quickly expanded to include converting the attic and opening the rear of the house with bifold doors, always prioritising the preservation of its heritage while ushering in more light.
An unexpected incident with a broken sewer pipe during backyard excavation led to a complete rebuilding of the bathroom, which became too beautiful to house the laundry, prompting a renovation of the kitchen to accommodate it.
Years later, Nguyen collaborated with her neighbours in the adjoining semi-detached property on a second renovation, ensuring the original symmetry of the build was maintained. This phase saw the addition of a second, spa-like bathroom upstairs, framed by the home’s original stone walls, and a plunge pool, a rare and luxurious addition for a terrace of this age and size.
Nguyen noted that the house is perfectly suited for a professional couple or individuals who appreciate the blend of history and modern comfort. She emphasised the home’s authentic, intimate, and easy-to-care-for nature, rich with character that is impossible to recreate.
A Sanctuary for Life and Memory
Life at Fairlight Maison for Nguyen and Paul flowed with a gentle rhythm. Their mornings often began with swims or walks to Fairlight Beach, followed by coffee and quiet work. Evenings frequently concluded with meals outdoors, candles lit, or watching the sunset from their bedroom balcony. In winter, they would enjoy curling up by the fire or playing guitar, and weekends were often filled with entertaining friends and cooking in the kitchen, which was always considered the heart of the home.
Nguyen also opened Fairlight Maison to Airbnb guests, many of whom were deeply moved by the house’s unique energy and location, a short walk from the vibrancy of Manly Beach yet secluded enough to feel like a hidden treasure. Guests often remarked on how the house encouraged them to slow down, and many expressed feeling “held” by it, as though they had discovered a quiet secret.
This sense of refuge became especially profound during Paul’s illness, as the home provided deep comfort and care, becoming a true sanctuary during their most tender moments. Nguyen explained that the familiar textures, cosy rooms, and soft light offered immense solace, with the house giving everything in return without asking for anything.
With Paul’s passing in late 2024, his memory is now gently woven into the very fabric of Fairlight Maison. Nguyen is now preparing to pass the home to its next custodian, stating that owning Fairlight Maison is more than just possession; it means becoming part of its ongoing story, and it asks only for love, intentional living, and to be allowed to provide the same comfort it has offered her.
Published Date 26-May-2025
