Second Life House has been such a joyful project for our team. Our clients - empty nesters moving on from their acreage home of 30 years - wanted to simplify their lifestyle. The opportunity came in the form of a familiar house: a 1990s brick-and-tile home built by our client’s parents as their own downsizing move. While the house carried deep family connection, it needed a new identity to truly feel like theirs and to suit the way they wanted to live in retirement. The original L-shaped plan was configured in reverse to passive design principles, with the northern aspect occupied by the garage and bedrooms, while the main living areas suffered a hot western orientation. The home offered generous floor area but no outdoor entertaining space, dark and isolated living rooms, and a master suite that was too small and centrally located for privacy. The styling and façade also reflected its time - functional for its original owners, but not aligned with the atmosphere our clients were seeking. Working almost entirely within the existing footprint, our goal was to make the house lighter, brighter, and more functional - while respecting the budget and avoiding unnecessary waste. The only extension was a breezy indoor–outdoor pavilion that anchors the house to the garden, providing a flexible, shaded space for family gatherings and everyday living. Inside, spaces were reshaped to better suit this next chapter. The original master bedroom was converted into a light-filled library that captures the prized northern sun. A new master suite was created at the rear of the house, offering privacy and a generous ensuite with ample storage. Living spaces were reconfigured to flow more easily, while robust, low-maintenance finishes - including vinyl floors and practical tile selections - ensure comfort without constant upkeep. On the exterior, breeze blocks and battens transform the street appeal while protecting from the western sun. Selective bagging calms the original brickwork without covering it completely, retaining character while creating cohesion with the updated palette. Every decision was made with purpose: investing where it would deliver real value, and working with what was already there. Through our Making Home Workshop, we gained deep insight into our clients’ priorities and explored design options together at the house. Thermal imaging and site investigations revealed key issues - including inadequate roof insulation and water ingress - which were resolved early to improve thermal comfort and prevent future problems. The detailed design process was run alongside a negotiated contract with Steve from Ardour Construction, allowing cost considerations to be integrated at every stage. Close collaboration with Steve and structural engineer Adrian Dine ensured structural efficiency and seamless integration with the original home, streamlining both design and delivery. The success of this project lies in giving our clients confidence that this home could truly be theirs - not a hand-me-down, but a retirement-ready home built around their future and the way they want to live. Currently under construction, due for completion late 2025.