Description: Exploration of New Housing Typology. Public Exhibition. NEAT (New Experimental Architectural Typologies) Competition Entry.
Client: CHC Affordable Housing
Year: 2014/15
Links: Entry 49 + Less is more
The practice explored the potential for a new housing typology for Canberra to meet the need for quality affordable housing. A number of feasibility studies were also developed to test the product on potential sites - an exciting idea for the national capital.
The exploration was developed as a joint entry with CHC Affordable Housing to the RAIA ACT NEAT competition in 2015, and the concept exhibited as part of Design Canberra on Petrie Plaza. 'Big Ideas Small Spaces' sparked the public interest and remains a viable option for new housing to meet demand.
The micro-unit proposal offers studio and loft apartments positioned in a set of independent buildings linked by bridged walkways and a rooftop garden. Prestigious modular expression maximises orientation and street frontage. Timber lined walls and soffits and battening give warmth to interiors and add interest to the facade. Front entries from the street and dispersed resident and visitor car parking create a safe, pleasant and inviting street scape.
Micro-units are a 'neighbourhood within a neighbourhood' maximising residents casual interaction with an active 'front-door' streetscape and communal walkways. Shared open spaces, a community garden and areas for quiet enjoyment encourage a village atmosphere. A cafe within the undercroft across from the village green offers residents a place to meet and relax.