Our Building
A Modernist Legacy, Reimagined
Second Home occupies a remarkable 1973 warehouse designed by influential Eltham designer and builder Alistair Knox.
Originally created as a light bulb factory, the building has served several purposes throughout its history, including heavy manufacturing, mechanical workshops, antique furniture and gallery spaces. Today, its generous proportions, natural materials and connection to the surrounding gum trees remain central to the character of Second Home.
An Alistair Knox Original
Alistair Knox was one of the pioneers of Australian mudbrick housing, a designer, builder and environmentalist whose work became closely connected with Eltham and the surrounds.
Best known for buildings that respond naturally to their setting, Knox worked with honest materials, abundant light and open, functional spaces. His approach considered architecture, landscape and the people using a building as parts of the same environment.
While primarily recognised for his residential work, the Second Home building is a rare example of his commercial architecture.
Reimagined as Second Home
When the warehouse was transformed into Second Home, later additions were removed to reveal the clarity and scale of Knox’s original structure.
Interior designer Brahman Perera introduced a restrained, contemporary interior that complements rather than competes with the architecture. Natural light, open spaces and views of the surrounding trees give the venue a sense of calm that feels distinctly connected to Eltham.
The result is a building that has evolved without losing its original character—designed for industry in 1973 and thoughtfully reimagined as a place for dining, gathering and community.
Explore the work and legacy of Alistair Knox
