How to transform a tiny 66sqm city block into a productive, sustainable sanctuary
In short: In Melbourne, Judy and Andreas Sederof have turned a challenging, small urban plot into a thriving, year-round garden. By integrating passive house design with clever water management and vertical planting, they prove that limited space is no barrier to creating a lush, edible, and environmentally conscious home ecosystem.
The Sederof garden, located in Brunswick East near Merri Creek, occupies just 66 square meters. To maximize this footprint, the house was positioned on the back boundary, prioritizing outdoor space at the front. The site presents two distinct soil profiles: a naturally deep, productive area and a rocky section that required the construction of raised beds. Judy, who draws on her background in interior design, curates the space with an eclectic, color-focused aesthetic, utilizing recycled materials like old vineyard baskets and salvaged ornaments to maintain visual interest even when deciduous plants lose their leaves.
Sustainability is the project's core, reflecting 30 years of professional design experience. The house achieves a 9.5-star rating through passive design principles, including north-facing orientation, double or triple glazing, and 'super-insulation'—a ceiling layer two feet thick. The garden mirrors this efficiency. To prevent heat buildup and ensure moisture absorption, the couple avoided hard surfaces. They also installed greywater recycling from the shower and two rainwater tanks beneath the deck to support the garden during summer.
Productivity is maintained through high-density planting, which suppresses weeds and retains soil moisture. Judy employs vertical growing techniques on shed walls and tent structures, alongside high-functioning wicking beds built by Andreas. These beds store water at the base, allowing vegetables to root deeply with minimal surface watering. Seasonal variety is key: summer yields tomatoes and eggplants, while winter focuses on herbs and brassicas. For Judy, the garden is more than a hobby; it is a grounding, soothing connection to the Earth that keeps her actively engaged in improving her sanctuary year-round.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: A sustainable house and garden on a tiny city block | Garden Inspiration | Gardening Australia
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