cottage and canopy

Extension/Renovation _ Clifton Hill VIC. Australia _ Under Construction

Set within the established streetscape of Clifton Hill, Cottage & Canopy reimagines a traditional period home for contemporary family life. Retaining the character and generous proportions of the original cottage, a contemporary extension introduces new spaces shaped by sunlight, greenery and connection to the outdoors.

Working within the constraints of a compact inner-city site, the design demonstrates how careful spatial planning and a strong relationship with landscape can create a surprising sense of generosity.

At the heart of the home, a dramatic double-height dining space forms the junction between old and new. Carefully positioned glazing and a western light court draw northern winter sunlight deep into the interior, transforming what might otherwise be a dark transitional space into a bright and welcoming place for family life.

Beyond, the kitchen and living areas open directly onto the rear garden, where large glazed openings, integrated seating and a seamless floor transition blur the distinction between inside and out. Although modest in size, the garden becomes an important extension of the living spaces, offering greenery, outlook and a sense of retreat within the dense urban setting.

Above, an elevated roof garden brings landscape to the upper level, providing privacy, passive shading and a verdant outlook from the bedrooms. A folded mesh screen wraps the upper volume, offering protection from the summer sun while creating opportunities for climbing plants to soften the architecture over time.

Throughout, the design balances openness with intimacy, creating spaces that support both everyday family routines and larger social gatherings.

Cottage & Canopy demonstrates how thoughtful adaptation of an existing home, careful environmental design and a strong connection to nature can create a renewed sense of generosity within compact urban living.

BENT Team:
Paul Porjazoski, Jacob Cutri

Builder:
Cassilis Constructions

Structural Engineer:
Keith Long & Associates