The Hawthorn House is a large renovation of a typical heritage workers cottage in Hawthorn. The retained front facade conceales the new double storey contemporary structure beyond. The additional 200 m2 provide three bedrooms, two bathrooms, large kitchen and open plan dining living space. Despite the southern orientation, the design allows the preferred northern sun to penetrate into the living areas. The glazed operable facade bleeds the living space out into the landscaped decking.