Takanini
Status: Building Consent
Description: We were approached by Habitat for Humanity to collaborate with them in designing their flagship progressive home ownership development in New Zealand. Habitat for Humanity is a community housing provider that responds across Aotearoa with shelter solutions, working towards a world where everyone has a decent place to live. They are committed to offering home ownership opportunities for low income households, which is desperately needed across NZ with home ownership rates at an all-time low.
The site in South Auckland was selected for its proximity to public transport options and local amenities. Two separate three storey buildings contain 26 apartments, featuring mix of one, two and three bedroom units each being self contained with generously proportioned spaces and outdoor living areas. We designed the project to meet numerous standards including Homestar 7, Lifemark 4 and 5, Ministry of Housing and Urban Development standards as well as Habitat for Humanity’s own requirements ensuring the apartments are above the building code, durable, energy efficient and of good quality for the occupants.
A shared space between the buildings features a large grassed area with compost, vege gardens and seating areas. A green-roofed BBQ shelter serves as a focal point for the space, and bike storage and parking is located in the undercroft of the apartments.
The project has recently been identified by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development as an exemplar of how working collaboratively with Lifemark has resulted in great project outcomes, in terms of accessibility and universal design.
Check out Habitat for Humanity’s website to find out more about their mission
