Before renovation, this house in Northcote showed potential to take advantage of views south towards the city. Freda has created a south-facing living area, with plenty of glass, leading out onto a raised deck from which these views can be appreciated. Upstairs, each daughter of the family has a bedroom oriented the same way, with a spare room and wardrobes nestled under the roof form. Although this house and garden are large by inner-city standards, the design process was complex due to the expectations of client, Council and neighbours. The design is a careful balancing act to apportion space while avoiding excessive visual bulk in the first floor extension. Timber screens are used to protect the privacy of the neighbouring houses and back yards.