The Generational Project

Multigenerational living is not a common practice in the Australian society. However, a study by the UNSW has shown that there is currently a rise of multigenerational living in Australia. It was reported in 2020 that 20 percent of Australian are now living with other generations of their family. While there are certain benefits such as lower financial cost or shared daily household duties, multigenerational living also strengthens family members connection and individual compassion.

The project is looking to encourage multigenerational living without forcing this lifestyle to traditional Australian mindset. Furthermore, it is aiming to provide more affordable housing for the community and strengthen the human connection within their neighbourhood. In thinking of multigenerational living, the design acknowledges the ever-changing nature of a
family and the community.

In order to achieve such ambition of harmonising people from different age group and mindset, the design of the project focus on three types of living unit with the integration of flexible internal partitions to allow natural interaction, decent privacy, and spatial adaptation overtime. The selection of material such as pre-cast concrete wall as a primary structure or colorbond cladding allows the building to last from one generation to another. Furthermore, these materials are locally sourced which helps to achieve the goal of affordable housing.

Additional, affordability is also integrated into resident’s living experience. Each building is designed with an active garden to allow home-grown produces. Solar panels are also used for heating water in everyday use. There is rainwater catchment and storage system in each building that can be used for toilet flushing, laundry, cleaning, and gardening.

Each building also has a shared laundry space and a shared open space for entertainment purposes such as outdoor cinema hosted by the residents or weekend mini concert. This not only provides free entertainment for the residents, but also a chance for neighbours to connect and build a stronger community. Since the residents are made up of families, this would mean children can meet more new friends and have a meaningful growing up experience. Parents can socialise and learn from each other while grandparents can be with other friends from their
age and stay connected with their children and grandchildren.