After four failed attempts to gain planning permission for a new home to downsize into within their steeply sloping garden Jo and Gail approached HEM Architects. The ‘upside-down’ house we designed for them is accessed on the upper level where a spacious open plan living/kitchen/dining space makes the most of fantastic views while not overlooking their existing house. The cosy and softly lit bedrooms sit within the lower floor that is carved into the sloping garden. The house is warm and comfortable to live in and uses very little energy compared to a typical new-build. An energy consumption of 39 kWh/m2.a. was achieved by designing using the Passivhaus Planning Package. Our low-energy, sensitive design gained planning permission on the first attempt. We then guided Jo and Gail through choosing a builder and the tender process to deliver a fantastic home to a high standard.