The park-side setting has been embraced by carefully organising the 35 homes in clusters to let nature meander in and create viewpoints into the borrowed landscape. Thresholds between homes are curated through a balance of solid and permeable screening, hiding the more private spaces, while maintaining community connection elsewhere. This innovative response packs in Homestar 7 certification, collaborative integration of traditional Māori values, edible gardens, high thermal efficiency and a cohesive palette of robust and low- maintenance materials. Setting the standard of economic social housing, this compassionate, human-centric design demonstrates how well-crafted architecture can elevate the lives of those in need, while also growing a community.

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Awards:

2024 Canterbury Architecture Awards (NZIA) - Housing

Property Industry Awards 2024 - Excellence in Community and Affordable Housing

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