Hidden Urban Oasis Cottages

Winwood McKenzie Adds an Extension to the Quarry House

Australian design studio Winwood McKenzie designs an extension to a Melbourne cottage dubbed the Quarry House. This is carefully arranged around two courtyard gardens to create a tranquil oasis. The design ensured that there was space for daylight to enter with the integrated fernery and internal courtyard. This sections the home into three distinct areas.

The studio explains, "Due to the budget and a small site, the design had to evolve with clever responses to dealing with compact space and easily constructible but highly crafted architectural detail. This gave impetus to think cleverly about adaptability, future use, and the ability to contract and expand, allowing for the client's desired indoor-outdoor lifestyle. The design does not impede or draw attention to itself within the urban context, giving it the feeling of a secret garden."

Image Credit: Rory Gardiner

Courtyard Gardens
The Quarry House features carefully arranged courtyard gardens, creating a tranquil oasis within the urban context.
Integrated Fernery
The design incorporates an integrated fernery, allowing for daylight to enter and adding natural beauty to the interior.
Indoor-outdoor Lifestyle
The design prioritizes adaptability and the client's desired indoor-outdoor lifestyle, enhancing their living experience.

Industries Being Reshaped

Architecture
Architects can explore the use of courtyard gardens and integrated ferneries to create unique and tranquil living spaces for clients.
Interior Design
Interior designers can focus on integrating natural elements like ferneries into their designs, enhancing the aesthetic and ambiance of indoor spaces.
Landscaping
Landscaping professionals can offer services to create and maintain courtyard gardens, providing clients with their very own urban oasis.
SCORE
3.0 out of 10
GENDER
50% Men50% Women
MARKETTop markets: North America
GENERATION
  • Gen Alpha
  • Gen Z (primary audience)
  • Millennial (primary audience)
  • Gen X (primary audience)
POPULARITY
Popularity 51%
Activity 16%
Freshness 23%