To challenge the stereotypical approach to the planning of retirement villages is no easy feat; it takes a brave architect and also a bold client to pull this off. In this case, credit must be given to architect and client for sticking to their determination to do things differently, and better. The result is a very grounded and community-based project, which seeks to prioritise people, rather than cars or profit. This design is deliberate and considered; it allows for public and private space, generous walking tracks, and most gratifyingly, gardens producing edible crops.