When an earthquake caused severe damage to this much-loved family homestead, it also provided an opportunity to give it a new lease of life. The rebuild needed to be sympathetic to the past and incorporate future-proofing features to serve generations to come. At the heart of this 347sqm home is the spacious kitchen and living room, with its soaring cedar-lined ceiling that puts the builders’ skills on show. Located in rural Canterbury, thermal efficiency was a priority. Engineered waffle foundation with slab-edge insulation, low-e glass and thermal spacers combine to create the best possible performance. The garage and garage door have also been thermally insulated to ensure this area can be used as a home gym. Two indoor log fires – repurposed from the original home – provide extra warmth in winter. The main fire includes a wet back to help mitigate the effects of rural power outages. The layout ensures living areas and bedrooms are placed to make the most of the sun. With four large bedrooms, two bathrooms, a mudroom, cloakroom, office and generous outdoor living, this residence is designed and built to provide a welcoming and enjoyable environment for its busy owners.