Investigating social housing and MMC collaboratively in Together Apart, it became clear that providing social housing density to a scale that begins to address demand requires efficient strategies that could be applied to multiple locations but produce site-specific results. This required considerate quality dwelling design that reinforces liveable dimensions under a standardised system.
Waldron Housing Intersect
In Chester Hill, NSW, my project strategy explores a combination of modular and panelised construction applied under a gridded rigour to create a social housing proposal that is intertwined with its landscape and prioritises amenity that ultimately fosters occupant well-being and improves liveability.
Dwelling Plans
The proposal navigates the dynamics of a multifunctional grid system. At a room level, the grid measures 600 x 600 mm, transitioning to 3 x 9 m segments divided into 1.2 m and 2.4 m portions. This framework is integrated into a larger 12 x 12 m grid that facilitates site division and circulation around a central courtyard.
CourtYard
The courtyard serves as a vital connection and buffer, cutting into the parking garage to create a series of light and vegetation wells, which enhance the balcony façade. This design replaces the existing community garden centre and nursery, activating the corner site with increased public interaction and opportunities for passive income.
Site Section
The arrangement of dwellings allows for a balance between density and amenity. Higher-density combinations may sacrifice some amenity, while slightly lower densities support communal spaces such as laundry areas, gardens, and BBQ zone
Apartment Arrangement
The strategy foundationally is a layered grid system that’s twisted to site interconnected with modular and panelised construction typologies to create a distinct and considerately disciplined housing solution. Unit allocation occurs around wet modules with internal panelised systems interconnecting to provide flexible and adaptable housing while highlighting amenity and communal space as integral.
In the spirit of reconciliation Monash University acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
