South melbourne studio

A layered retreat shaped by connection and calm

South Melbourne Studio is a compact, multi-functional retreat designed as part of a broader reimagining of a cherished inner-city terrace.

Conceived to serve as a workspace, guest room and place of quiet retreat, the studio responds thoughtfully to the constraints of its urban context. Tucked into the garden and softened by a green roof and vertical planting, it offers a sense of calm enclosure while maintaining a quiet dialogue with the main house. Within it’s modest footprint, the design balances flexibility and warmth, privacy and connection—proving that even the smallest spaces can hold stillness, purpose, and a deep sense of home.

Completion date: 2014

Site Size: 112m²

Suburb: South Melbourne

Council: City of Port Phillip, on the traditional lands of the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung People

Design architects: Ilana Kister, Alexandra Ansari and Michal Eynon

Project architect: Alexandra Ansari

Photography: Michelle Williams

Aerial view of a compact garden studio with a green roof, skylight and timber deck surrounded by established planting.
Garden studio with dark timber cladding, large open glass doors and a simple workspace overlooking the landscaped courtyard.
Interior workspace with a large skylight, horizontal window, timber desk, red chair and vintage typewriter.
Compact garden studio with fully opened glass doors connecting the workspace to the surrounding garden and timber deck.
Garden studio with dark timber cladding, glazed entry and large opening connecting the interior workspace to the courtyard.
Rear exterior of a compact garden studio combining grey masonry walls, dark timber cladding and a horizontal window.
View from inside the garden studio through open glass doors to a planted courtyard and adjoining home.
Long timber deck and landscaped courtyard connecting the main house with a compact garden studio.
Minimal studio workspace with a timber desk, vintage typewriter, red chair, desk lamp and horizontal garden window.
Previous

Spear Ritz Kew