Sanctuary 54 out now: Renovation & retrofit special

Sanctuary 54 is our renovation and retrofit special, showcasing projects that give a new lease on life to existing buildings with careful upgrades and inspired additions.

These include a colourful Melbourne house featuring three ‘pod’ extensions for extra space, a traditional Brisbane Queenslander improved with the insertion of a courtyard, and an airy extension to a brick bungalow in Wollongong that connects it much better to views and sun.

We also visit an owner-built strawbale Passive House in Wanaka, New Zealand, and a low-maintenance home built for inveterate travellers on the coast south of Adelaide. Building expert Jenny Edwards explains the benefits of retrofitting with energy efficiency and thermal comfort in mind, and architect John Tallis describes what it took to complete one of Australia’s first renovations done to Passive House standard. Elsewhere, we look at how sustainable design can interconnect with bushfire resilience for those rebuilding in fire-prone areas and give you tips on keeping happy backyard chickens – plus much more.

Sanctuary 54 is on its way to subscribers and on sale in newsagents now. You can buy a copy online or subscribe to get every issue delivered. You can take a look inside Sanctuary 54 here.

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