Positioned on a main arterial road, a small dilapidated and condemned worker's cottage in Clifton Hill has a breath of new life through an extensive extension and refurbishment.

A meager 4.5m in internal width, the residence becomes an intricate play of space: the principal living zones are elongated and service areas are rotated to maximize their usability.

Confronting the laneway head on, the facade is a play of porthole windows to provide controlled light to the interior: the external finish is rough so that graffiti cannot attach.

The proportions are linear and vertical: ceilings reflect the space below, and step to zone each area. Cool muted tones bring a sense of tranquility from the arterial road.