One of Sydney's most creative communities is buzzy without being overly slick. Surry Hills has become a style setter, packed with design galleries such as Edit, Shelf/Life, Via Alley and Orson and Blake. Highlights are Object: The Australian Centre for Design and Craft and Chee, Soon and Fitzgerald for contemporary, collectible homewares and fabrics.

Cream on Crown and Grandma Takes a Trip are great for vintage while fabulous Australian designer labels are at Paris Texas or SARK Studio.