This design solution, providing adaptable affordable housing, came from an earlier exploration in the townhouse typologies with a Master Planned Community (MPC) developer. Traditionally the terrace style housing was used but didn’t have market acceptance through years of trial and error.

What was developed was a take on a Mediterranean courtyard lifestyle because these were more regionally climatically and culturally appropriate. A number of typologies were developed to fit on 180-200m2 plot, to include three bedrooms with ensuites, study, lounge, dining and kitchen, oh yeah there was a requirement for a two car garage, open space and a rumpus for the kids.

Culturally these were a hit with the market, as private open space was provided through an enclosed courtyard, where in some cases plunge pools were requested. All the other spatial requirements were met and we were able to create a series of compact neighbourhoods that helped reduce traffic speed, and created a high sense of community ownership.

The product themselves were the lowest price point in the MPC but the development feasibility demonstrated that it provided stronger yields than the mid to upper level detached housing products. Proving a point that density is sometimes far more economical than sprawl for developers but far more beneficial in providing housing for all people. These products were designed to be modularly built adding rooms when needed - similar to Charles Correa Belapur (india) typologies - however this option was never put to the market as the demand outstripped supply.