This study investigates whether, by using a virtual world, it is possible to integrate architectural design and language (L2) learning in a Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) approach and increase student motivation vis-à-vis L2 learning. We discuss the advantages and limitations of virtual worlds with reference to the two disciplines and describe the learning design for a higher education course which used Second Life (SL) for face-to-face and distance sessions. We present the course evaluation results. These revealed i) the greater interest in using SL for distance design, rather than face-to-face activities, ii) the need for progress to be made concerning our learning scenario so students feel they are understood clearly in their L2 and iii) the course design's contribution to collaborative group work and students' feeling they had progressed in both disciplines.