This small residence was designed within a highly restrictive envelope. The location is on a steeply sloped property shared with a primary house. The main floor houses the main living spaces, the entry, and a large downhill facing deck. Below are two bedrooms and full bath, with access to a partially recessed court. Storage is always an issue with very small dwellings. In this case, storage has been maximized with built-ins and a relatively large accessible crawlspace.

Architecturally, the primary operation is the transformation of the generic gable roof shape. This element has been extended down over the exterior walls in a manor that balances both roof and wall to create an integrated object which plays off similar material forms used traditionally on the main house. The roof form changes along the perimeter, and is broken up to accommodate skylights, windows, and entry points. The alley wall shares the character of the roof and all of the openings and outdoor spaces are strategically placed to minimize overlook and impact on neighbours, and to retain privacy from the laneway.