PROJECT SHOWCASE
Sustainable Retirement Living
Designing a compact, energy-smart home for a couple planning retirement, with room for their son and space to recharge.
Client Brief
This home was designed for a couple preparing for retirement who didn’t want a large house, but still needed it to comfortably support two adults, their son while he finished his studies, and a dedicated room for yoga and meditation. Their priority was clear: a modest, highly sustainable home that would feel comfortable all year round without relying heavily on mechanical heating and cooling.
Key Design Focuses
The clients wanted a home that was simple, sustainable and comfortable all year round — without unnecessary size or complexity. The brief included space for two adults, a son completing his studies, and a dedicated area for yoga and meditation.
The design prioritised solar orientation, natural temperature regulation and everyday practicality. Living areas were positioned to the north for winter warmth, bedrooms placed to the east for morning light, and the western façade was intentionally kept free of windows to reduce heat load during Victoria’s high-temperature months. The entry porch, located on the south-west side, was fully enclosed to act as a thermal buffer, protecting the home from both summer heat and winter chill. Storage and utility areas were placed on the southern wall to further stabilise indoor temperatures.
Outcome
The result is a well-balanced home that supports comfort, sustainability and low-maintenance living — perfectly suited to retirement. Thoughtful orientation, zoning and passive design strategies created a naturally comfortable environment that requires minimal mechanical heating or cooling.
The home feels calm, efficient and purpose-built for the family’s lifestyle, with dedicated spaces for study, relaxation and wellbeing. Most importantly, the clients love their new home and continue to enjoy its year-round comfort and practicality.