Ayoola Sholola

The Circular Collective is a social housing project designed to cultivate a supportive environment that encourages meaningful connections among residents, especially those who work from home. With an emphasis on multi-generational living, exploration is taking into how transitional areas and informal gathering spots can promote a more empathetic approach to aging in place. Grounded in the principles of a circular economy, this project not only enhances individual well-being but also reinforces community bonds, fostering sustainability and collaboration among residents.

The Circular Collective

The proposal is a high-density social housing project that fosters meaningful connections among residents, especially remote workers. The site is situated on the corner of Bruce street, Kensington characterised by its close proximity to the Monee ponds creek.

View from Street Corner

The site is designed to harmonise with the surrounding landscape, utilising the dense vegetation to the south. The ground-level communal area opens up towards Monee Ponds Creek, while the building’s color palette echoes the natural environment, softening its rigid form.

Ground Floor Plan

The building features two distinct forms that decentralise communal spaces by positioning them at ground level. Rentable work-from-home units and co-working areas are situated at the rear of the site, while workshops and waste management facilities are located directly facing the street.

Section A

Design Rationale: Circular Economy

Material selection and building programs were guided by the principles of a circular economy. By viewing the building as a material bank, a framework was provided to promote self-sufficiency. This ultimately encourages the adaptive reuse of materials, while facilitating in on-site production.

Dwelling Terrace

Each dwelling offers dual aspects with north-facing terraces that optimise sunlight. The façade features adjustable steel mesh screens, allowing residents to customise their level of privacy, seamlessly extending their living spaces into the terrace.

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