DIGNITY, PRIDE & A SENSE OF COMMUNITY
Social housing is currently shrouded by stigma within society, so Hot Black were keen to destigmatise the project by providing a design that was expressive, had a clear architectural intent, provided a dignified environment for its tenants, and provided a space which people could be inspired by and take pride in.
Our clients were looking to purchase a site for a Social Housing Development. After providing some initial yield and massing studies, Hot Black were engaged to design an apartment building with a point of difference.
Wanting to implement a local flavour and to support the local economy, Hot Black were interested in partnering with Bendigo Pottery (the oldest pottery in Australia) to create the ceramic blocks for a Jali screen to be implemented on the facade. Often used in middle eastern and Indian architecture where it’s important to control the hot climate, the Jali screen provides privacy whilst retaining views, allows airflow whilst controlling sunlight, and uses local materials and manufacturing to create a light ceramic facade.
Soft inviting curves round out the edges of the building with strategically placed planters to enable soft landscaping to cascade over the top of the heavy base. The lower floors create a street wall along the front boundary, whilst the upper levels are set back to ensure solar access to the street.
Balconies facing the street enable passive surveillance & access to views. Movable screens to the upper balconies enable occupants to control their environment.
All corridors within the building were designed to have access to natural light and ventilation, and to promote social interaction between the occupants to enhance the community spirit within the building and by doing so creating a safer social housing development.