Sydney architect proposes smart design solutions for affordable housing
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An award-winning Sydney architecture firm has welcomed recent NSW government housing initiatives but cautioned that intelligent design is crucial to avoid creating substandard neighbourhoods.
PLACE Studio CEO James Alexander-Hatziplis said smart design could help address Sydney’s affordability issues while meeting the state’s housing targets.
“We welcome the New South Wales Government’s new pattern book approach to create repeatable housing for two storey terrace house and mid-ranged apartments, with the government set to fast-track developments using these designs,” Alexander-Hatziplis said.
The architect praised the government’s plan to increase housing around 31 Sydney metro rail stations, estimating 140,000 new homes within 400 metres of these transport hubs.
However, he stressed the importance of incorporating noise mitigation strategies in these developments.
“Smart design can help offset the potential issues of living next to a train station. By providing good repeatable design AND adding the right noise mitigation strategies, developers can better utilise spaces around transportation hubs that will appeal to a wide range of potential residents,” Alexander-Hatziplis said.
To avoid creating unattractive neighbourhoods, the PLACE Studio CEO offered several design tips.
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He suggested focusing on yield-enhancing elements when building, such as simplified construction methods and robust materials that reduce maintenance costs.
“No investor one wants to fund what might become a congested and poorly planned community in a few years and lose value,” Alexander-Hatziplis said.
The architect also recommended prioritising practicality and liveability over aesthetics, while still maintaining curb appeal.
“Like in all aspects in life first impressions count, so buildings attractiveness from the street (and railway) and entrance outside need to appeal to potential investors as well as residents,” he said.
Alexander-Hatziplis emphasised the importance of sustainability in design, noting that energy efficiency measures can benefit both tenants and investors.
PLACE Studio, responsible for $3.5 billion in mixed-use construction projects across Australia’s East Coast, prides itself on challenging the status quo in architectural design.