The existing cottage was tiny and run down. It was located on a steep site, overlooked by neighbours on each side.The design strategy was to make a generous living area associated with a garden. By locating the pool at the end of the garden, it became a giant retaining wall, allowing the garden to be level. The living room has very high ceilings in the tradition of generous queenslanders. Large custom made doors open onto the landscape.To the north, a double wall was built to allow light to enter the house, while controlling the privacy.