Together Apart

Together Apart examines design strategies for improving the quality and supply of social housing in NSW through modern methods of construction (MMC). The studio draws on current research by the Monash Urban Lab, Future Building Initiative and Building 4.0 CRC, who are key collaborators on the Homes NSW MMC Program.

Unprecedented demand for social housing is reflected by the 54,000 people on NSW’s waiting list, a number projected to grow to 120,000 by 2061. The NSW MMC Program recognises the need to develop new design and delivery strategies to contend with the volume, speed and performance of social housing required.

Through a series of scalar design exercises, case studies and expert talks, students engaged with complex challenges associated with social housing design, and gained an understanding of the principles of MMC. Based on this understanding, each student has developed a medium-density dwelling model that can be delivered through a ‘kit of parts’ construction approach.

The design outcomes demonstrate how flexible, sustainable and high quality dwelling options can be achieved with a limited suite of building components. By aligning the imperatives of high quality social housing design with MMC, students reconsidered the skillsets architects will need to contribute to a future industrialised building industry.

Studio Leader: Lee Anne Khor