Sanctuary Issue 69
House profiles
Sustainability unlocked
In suburban Perth, Amy and Wynand’s house is a masterclass in low-energy, high-liveability design on a small, subdivided block.
Getting better with age
Having built one of Canberra’s pioneering sustainable homes nearly 50 years ago, this couple have set a new benchmark for ageing in place with their latest project.
From dated to delightful
Reclaimed timber infuses character and warmth into a 1970s Canberra townhouse.
Green getaway
Simple and striking, this Brisbane family’s new backyard retreat is a triumph.
Pocket sized
A Sydney studio with excellent sustainability credentials, Pocket Passiv shows what great inner-city infill housing can look like.
On the money
With just $58,000, Rob retrofitted his 1970s Melbourne unit for far greater comfort and energy efficiency, learning a lot along the way.
Biophilic beauty
Step inside architect Marie Carrel’s Melbourne townhouse that’s “like living in an indoor garden”.
Ideas & advice
On the drawing board: Two homes from one
Building scientist Jenny Edwards outlines her team’s approach to ‘gentle density’: conjuring two or more comfortable dwellings from older, often inefficient homes.
Living with nature
In this third article in our biophilic design series, we focus on the key elements of natural patterns, processes, light and space.
On the frontlines
Australia’s Bushfire Building Conference celebrated its tenth year in 2024. We ask the experts about the latest in bushfire-resilient design and planning.
Functional farmhouses: Design tips for rural homes
Compared with urban homes, rural builds come with particular design opportunities and challenges. Architect Sarah Lebner sheds some light.
Design Workshop: Same footprint, great new layout
Experienced renovators Matt and Steph look for some ideas on improving the layout of their new home in Reservoir, Victoria, without extending it.
Outdoors: Sweet spot
Ecologist Sarah Bekessy makes the case for building sustainable midrise housing for healthy, nature-positive communities.
