Seniors Urban Living Home Units by Housing NSW
This project is the first example of Housing NSW’s innovative Seniors Urban Living model, locating social housing specifically designed for older people in the heart of their community, close to transport and integrated with shops, services and a range of communal spaces.
The development, located in Fairfield's town centre, will provide 45 dwellings, 1 x one-bedroom unit and 44 x two bedroom units over six storeys.
This development will provide safe, secure and accessible housing for those with reduced mobility, incorporating lifts, spacious design and meeting universal design principles.
The rooftop meeting point for residents with balconies and ground floor common room and lobby will promote social and family interaction. Two special rooms for visiting doctors or aged care nursing will bring vital services right to the door. It has its own retail outlets which will provide exposure for potential employment opportunities for older residents and support community enterprises.
The project is being delivered through an innovative partnership. The overall management of the private/public interface is the responsibility of Housing NSW and has been seamless and effective, facilitating prompt planning approvals and an early start to construction. Program delivery is provided though private sector proponents, while a community housing provider will have ownership of the property and provide tenancy management.
Housing NSW has championed this development, refining the initial proposal to reflect best practice and offer a leading edge social housing outcome that will meet the need for affordable housing for older people in the Fairfield area.
Judges Comments
The initial project was purchased as a DA approved land and building package and the design was subsequently modified by Housing NSW to incorporate a number of innovations to the design to improve livability and social integration. The development comprises 45 units over six floors with a communal space and terrace on the top floor, and ground floor common areas with space for visiting specialist consultants and nurses. Ground level retail space is located on the Smart Street frontage that is intended to support social enterprise offering volunteer programs for residents and strengthening their connections within the community, and at the same time activating the street frontage.
This is the first example of Housing NSW’s innovative Seniors Urban Living Model, locating social housing for older people within their community and close to transport and services.