Emma Ward

The “Community of Continuity” is a joint housing project for people 55+ specialising in the different needs of elderly women, common needs people who have experienced homelessness and the general elderly population.
The project focuses on providing a safe and secure environment across the site which accommodates for the independence of each user. The project focuses on longevity for the users, encouraging communal interaction through recreational activities which in turn enhance the health and wellbeing of the occupants.

The three main concepts of the “Community of Continuity” regard Longevity, Safety and Community. There are multiple spaces across the site on which users can interact with one another; the platforms, seating, gardens and community hub are examples of this. The concept of safety is vital and implemented across the whole site but specifically for the older women user group as they have come from backgrounds and had experiences which diminishes their feelings of safety. The design choice to implement curves in all designs across the site is to reduce the amount of blind corners and the feeling of not knowing what is ahead.

The density of the common ground design is to ensure that we are able to help and provide a safe place for individuals who have recently come out of homelessness. We want individuals to feel involved in the place, have interactions with one another, and help each other walk out of harsh situations. The section highlights the juxtaposition of the one story townhouses utilised for the older women's housing, ensuring they have their own space and feel safe. The idea for the older women's design is not to force them into interactions but rather through design of spaces that encourage and suggest for them to get involved and have community exchanges.