Backyard Bonus: Design Profile - Space Saviour

As their kids edged toward adulthood, one Melbourne couple created a self-contained super studio down the garden path.

- Anna McCooe

Second living room, teen retreat, home office, in-laws’ suite – this studio in Melbourne’s inner north proves you can have it all. Just not all at once. Owners Kirsten, 43, and Shane, 46, needed more living and breathing space as their kids, Catie, 21, and Liam, 17, gained independence. Luckily, there at the back of the garden was a shining beacon of under-utilised potential – a pergola and barbecue area on 50 square metres of destitute real estate. “We considered extending [our home] up and out but we really wanted an independent space,” Kirsten says. Cue architect Gary Windiate, who created a multipurpose studio with designer finesse. “It was important that the studio felt good to be in,” Gary says. “If no-one wanted to use it, it would have been a disaster!” Adds Kirsten, “The kids can play music that can’t be heard from the house and it’s really peaceful when you’re there by yourself. I’d say it’s the best room in the house, but it’s down the garden path.”