City West Housing has recently released its Concept Design Guidelines. It is a practical resource that outlines the key design outcomes and features expected of development partners and consultants when working with City West Housing in creating fit-for-purpose affordable rental apartments.
City West Housing aims to lead by example in delivering award-winning, place-based projects built to high design standards. Every aspect of any design must therefore consider the entire life cycle in a medium density build-to-rent environment, where City West Housing owns and manages the building long term.
The guidelines cover aspects of the design that must be considered from the outset of the project. Along with City West Housing’s preferences, the guidelines incorporate existing guidelines such as Liveable Housing Design, Senior Housing, Aboriginal Housing Office and Land and Housing.
Above: Jon Rhule (Head of Assets) and Lisa Sorrentino (Head of Development)
Head of Development Lisa Sorrentino said the guide will ensure that affordable housing design puts the residents needs first while applying the 30 years of City West Housing management experience to reduce long term operating costs.
“Our residents deserve high-quality apartments that are easy to maintain and cost-effective to live in, while prioritising building design and materials that are sustainable, and will enhance social cohesion, access to public and active transport, green spaces, and light.”
City West Housing’s Tallowwood Apartments, which has received DA approval, is an example of a project that employs all the main design principles in the guidelines. The 11-storey mixed-use development in the heart of Rockdale will consist of 80 residential apartments and two ground floor commercial tenancies. Its design incorporates a Green Travel Plan to reduce the reliance on car usage given the site is adjacent to Rockdale train station.
With initiatives to deliver more affordable housing, City West Housing encourages other developers to consider the residents’ needs and use the guide.
