This 34 unit development for Churches of Christ in Queensland was funded under the Queensland Government Boarding House Program. The site formerly accommodated a traditional boarding house that could not be renovated to an acceptable standard of accommodation. However, as in many Australian cities, the demand for single person affordable housing in inner city Brisbane has continued to increase as low-income housing options have declined. The site’s existing boarding house was demolished to make way for a higher standard of affordable housing incorporating large studio and one bedroom apartments.
Deicke Richards was commissioned to provide project briefing and project management services, in addition to full architectural services. The site had a number of challenges including its size and shape, its difficult topography and the existence of a heritage garage on the neighbouring site. However, it also offered spectacular views and two street frontages.
The development comprises two buildings. The smaller building addresses the very narrow and steep residential street and responds to the scale of the neighbouring houses. The larger three storey building addresses busy Gregory Terrace and draws on the tradition of red brick in the area. Dwellings are orientated north and east, with good views to the surrounding context.
Due to its location, on-site carparking was reduced, freeing space to provide more housing.
Photography: Christopher Frederick Jones
