Fig Tree Terraces & Apartments in Melrose Park was proposed as a development that incorporated two types of housing. The first of which were owned by Torrens title homes and were sold to the private market as affordable housing and were accompanied by an apartment building held by Junction Australia, a community housing provider. A key element of the development was to retain the large number of existing trees and create a green corridor to maintain the flow of passage between the two distinct types of dwellings.

• Not only was this green corridor to support the pass of flow within the development, but it achieved several other outcomes in parallel:
• Direct access for residents to enjoy shaded green space outside their front door
• Reduction in the effect of urban heat islands; reducing energy costs and pollution
• Treatment of stormwater prior to being captured and released back into the stormwater system

The project team included:

Developer: Junction Australia
Architect: Shape Architects
Builder: Qattro

Location: Melrose Park, South Australia
Dwellings: 21 Townhouses & 15 Unit 3 Storey Apartment Building

Our Services:

• Concept Design
• Planning Approval Drawings
• Construction Documentation
• Contract Administration

Our Approach:
Due to the nature of the development being community centric and looking to achieve social housing outcomes, our approach was an inclusive and consultative one. Working with Qattro, Junction Australia, and putting community representatives at the center of our process; we were able to include each stakeholders desired outcomes. Below details three of the key elements in our approach; Design Smart, Holistic Solutions, and Powered by Technology and their application to this project.

Outcome:
The development delivered:

• 21 affordable townhouses sold off plan
• 15 properties within an apartment building
• total of 36 new homes among a new community park

Beautifully positioned in the heart of Melrose Park, the buildings enjoy the centrepiece of a 100-year-old fig tree and ample green space for occupants to interact with their surroundings and the broader community.

Through implementing the key elements of our approach, we were able to deliver a cost-effective building which does not compromise on aesthetic appeal. It utilises an innovative light weight construction method which delivers a 7-star energy rating, aligned to social outcomes and affordable housing requirements.

The success of this project is reflected in the acknowledgement made by both HIA and Power Housing Australia through being awarded the 2021 HIA Specialised Housing Award (Apartment Building) and the 2021 Modernisation of a Built Form Development Award (Power Housing Australia).