In the heart of Brunswick West, on the lands of the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people where modest post-war homes line the streets and backyard gardens are cherished, Garden Studio emerges as a small but mighty example of what thoughtful design can achieve. Designed by Apparte, this compact yet deeply considered studio doesn’t just squeeze a self-contained home into a backyard—it seamlessly expands the living experience into the garden, proving that good design isn’t about size, but about smarts.
Originally, this space was a rundown outbuilding, used as a humble music practice room. The brief? A transformation. The result? A compact dwelling with a kitchenette and bathroom that could serve as a flexible retreat, a guest space, or even a future rental. But the real challenge was making it feel open and generous within its 40-square-metre footprint.
Enter the gable roof. This clever move does more than just look good—it reduces the building’s visual bulk, meeting council setback requirements while making the interior feel expansive. From the outside, it extends down partway along the walls, meeting a striking oversized box gutter that multitasks as a shading device and rainwater collector. Inside, it translates to a soaring cathedral ceiling that completely redefines the sense of space.
Large corner sliding doors dissolve the boundary between indoors and outdoors, drawing the lush garden into everyday life. A wraparound deck blurs the threshold even further, creating a flexible zone where indoor living spills effortlessly outside. The studio’s Monument and Woodland Grey cladding nestles it into its surroundings, allowing it to sit quietly within the landscape.
Step inside, and you’ll find more smart moves. A mezzanine sleeping area makes the most of the vertical volume, accessed by an alternating staircase with built-in shelving tucked beneath—because in a small space, every detail counts. Soft LED lighting highlights the joinery, while turquoise accents in the kitchenette and bathroom bring a playful nod to the client’s favourite colour. High-level windows strategically frame the garden, pulling the outside in and reinforcing that connection to nature.
Speaking of nature, the garden wasn’t just a backdrop for this project—it was an integral part of the design. A towering gum tree on the southwest corner was carefully preserved, its branches embracing the studio like an old friend. Another tree to the northeast provides natural shading, filtering dappled light through the space throughout the day. Even the shed was reimagined, incorporating a servery that enhances the outdoor dining experience without increasing the building footprint.
Sustainability was another guiding force. Double-glazed windows, high-quality insulation, and strategic orientation ensure year-round comfort with minimal energy use. Instead of overcomplicating things with high-tech solutions, natural ventilation does the heavy lifting, keeping the space cool in summer and cosy in winter.
At night, the studio transforms. With warm lights glowing from within, it becomes a lantern in the landscape—a retreat that feels both grounded and uplifting. Garden Studio is a masterclass in small-space living, proving that with clever design, even the most compact spaces can feel expansive, flexible, and deeply connected to their surroundings.
