The renovation to this heritage cottage in North Fitzroy by Atlas Architects had one unusual requirement: it must be designed with equal consideration of both their human client, and her cat, Dot. And so it was done!

The resulting structure is harmonious gathering of opposites: concrete and timber, rounded and rectilinear angles, human and cat lifestyles! All in pursuit of the common goal of homeliness.

Dot required access from the front yard to the back, and between the laundry and living space for days when she is left alone – hence cat doors were inserted discretely throughout corners of the house. The laundry room is dedicated entirely to Dot’s comfort and folly.

Custom joinery designed specifically to accommodate her litter tray, food and storage is elevated off the laundry floor, while the north-facing bookshelves in the living room act as a ladder she can scamper up and keep watch on the garden through the rounded porthole.