By Heather Nette King
The home
A Victorian weatherboard cottage in inner-suburban Melbourne with an upper-storey extension.
Who lives here
Anna Rozen, an architect with A for Architecture and Wolveridge Architects, her partner Taj Darvall, a project manager, their children Finn, 4, and Evie, 1, and dog Banjo.
What we did
"The original house was dark, so I designed the renovation to let in light and connect to the garden, with mirrored skylights and a glass back wall," says Anna. "We've concealed the bathroom, laundry and kitchen appliances behind timber cabinetry for a minimalist feel."
Favourite room
The kitchen. "Our life revolves around the island bench as Taj loves to cook and Finn likes to help him," says Anna.
The 'hood
"Collingwood Children's Farm is nearby – it's hard to believe you're so close to the city when you're surrounded by farm animals and bushland," says Anna.
Future plans
"After converting a pot into a fish pond, Taj is planning a larger garden pond."
Best advice
"Don't be afraid to use black on the ceiling as it visually recedes and draws the eye to the spaces beyond," says Anna.