Clifton Hill Courtyard House

Clifton Hill Courtyard House is a reworking of a 19th century weatherboard cottage, where light and spatial clarity are brought to the centre of the home.

Working within a long, narrow inner-city site in Clifton Hill, the key challenge was how to introduce natural light deep into the plan while accommodating the needs of a growing family and frequent guests.

Rather than extending conventionally to the rear, the design is organised around a central courtyard — allowing light, air and garden to be experienced from multiple points within the home. This move creates relief at the end of the original narrow hallway and establishes a more open, connected way of living.

The planning carefully balances openness and separation, allowing for visual connection and passive supervision, while still providing spaces for retreat and flexibility over time. A garden studio to the rear further supports this adaptability, accommodating a range of uses as the family evolves.

Materially, the extension is defined by a restrained palette of brick, timber and glass, grounding the building within its context and allowing light and spatial relationships to remain the focus.

If you’re planning a renovation or reworking an existing home, we can help resolve layout, light and budget decisions early — before they become difficult or costly to change. Start your project