South East Queensland’s growing population is expected to increase by two million over the next 20 years, reaching six million by 2046. With rising demand for adequate housing (an estimated 863,600 new units are needed), Plus Architecture is collaborating with industry partners to reinvent the state’s approach to residential development in its cities.
Plus Architecture Principal Chrisney Formosa said that while both inner and outer suburbs across Australia have, for decades, comprised low-density, single storey, detached houses with backyards, this approach to urban development is no longer sustainable.
“Queensland’s population is not only growing but also changing, with household sizes, demographics and lifestyle trends shifting. As architects, we need to work with the wider construction industry, alongside policy-makers, to reformulate the idea of what city-living looks like now and in the future.”
Formosa said a key focus is prioritising the development of medium-density housing that can be integrated into existing inner-city neighbourhoods.
“Through identifying appropriate in-fill sites, we can devise targeted, medium-density housing solutions that cater to the contemporary and diverse demands of people living in Australia today – whether they be students, young professionals, families or downsizers.”
This approach aims to reduce urban sprawl and maintain natural landscapes while also allowing for investments and enhancements to existing services and infrastructure.
Plus Architecture recently worked alongside developers on the designs for two low-scale, medium-density townhouse projects on infill sites, that have been tailored to meet the local market demands.
Formosa stated that the two projects, Ascot Row, in Ascot, North East Brisbane and Capri VIllas, on the Isle of Capri on the Gold Coast, both exemplify the kind of innovative, targeted housing solutions Queensland needs.
“With smaller land footprints, these two to three storey developments have cleverly programmed floor plans that enable residents to live comfortably and efficiently, whilst enjoying access to amenities that cater to their lifestyle expectations.
“With such a diverse spectrum of buyers now, from young professionals to down-sizers, we’re seeing increased demand for greater access to amenity and communal spaces. The result of working people leading busier lives than ever before, and retirees seeking an easier life — convenience is clearly key,” said Formosa.
As demand grows for housing that’s located in well-connected, inner-city areas, Formosa believes it’s an opportunity for real innovation and creativity — where each development can be fully tailored to the needs of its intended residents.
“Through moving away from the two established extremes of low density urban sprawl, and inner-city high density tower-blocks, we are working with our clients to strategically address the ‘missing middle’ — with a focus on good design and value management.”
An added benefit is that this strategy results in more opportunities for young people and empty nesters to remain within their local communities, as there will be more affordable housing options and suitable downsizing opportunities available.
With ongoing market challenges, Formosa said this approach will require a significant shift in how we view and plan our cities, and that cross-sector collaboration will be critical.
“As inflation, interest rates and construction costs continue to rise, it’s critical that our industry and government continue to have robust conversations around demand demographics, market expectations and economic positioning.
“Only through coming together and collaborating will we be able to effectively deliver a sustainable and diverse supply-chain of quality, well-designed homes.”