Resilient housing for the Northern Rivers

DESIGN RESEARCH

A roadmap for rethinking housing for the Northern Rivers

Many communities across Australia are facing a significant housing crisis. In the Northern Rivers region, this crisis is worsened by natural disasters and socio-economic factors.

To address this issue, there is an urgent need for diverse housing that can accommodate the people living in this region. Barriers to housing supply include zoning restrictions, high costs, and a lack of suitable designs that align with local environmental conditions and cultural values.

A business-as-usual approach is unlikely to remove these barriers. By embracing innovative designs and practices, it is possible to create a new paradigm in housing that could address housing issues in the Northern Rivers and serve as a model for other regions facing similar challenges.

Resilient Housing for the Northern Rivers outlines findings of research undertaken by University of Technology Sydney (UTS), in collaboration with the NSW Reconstruction Authority (NSWRA).

Research approach

Following the 2022 Northern Rivers floods, UTS researchers led a team of Masters-level students in two research studios. These studios explored various design topics, including house raising and retrofitting, alternative housing typologies, and transitional housing solutions. The studios involved hands-on research and site visits, and the resulting proposals combine creative architectural solutions that reconsider how housing can be designed to better co-exist with the landscape.

The research focused on several critical questions aimed at finding design solutions for housing in the region:

  • How might housing enable better connections to Country?

  • How can we develop new housing, and adapt existing housing to be resilient to climate stress and change?

  • Where should new housing be located?

  • Are there forms of land tenure that will make it easier for people to access housing?

  • What are the most appropriate forms of housing to meet the needs of the current and future population?

  • What are the fast and affordable ways to construct housing?

  • How can we develop housing to foster social connectivity and accessibility? 

A new paradigm for housing

How might housing enable better connections to Country?

Housing can enable better connections to Country by incorporating design principles that respect and recognise the cultural and ecological significance of the land. This involves engaging with Indigenous Knowledge Systems and ensuring that housing designs are not only sensitive to the natural environment but also promote a sense of belonging and stewardship among residents. The approach encourages outdoor living spaces, natural materials, and landscape integration, fostering a reciprocal relationship between inhabitants and the land, which ultimately enhances community ties and cultural identity.

How can we develop new housing, and adapt existing housing to be resilient to climate stress and change?

Developing new housing and adapting existing structures for climate resilience involves prioritising elevated designs that mitigate flood risks and allow for natural water flow beneath homes. Retrofitting existing houses with durable materials and features such as waterproof storage, flexible layouts, and multifunctional undercrofts can enhance their ability to withstand extreme weather events. Emphasizing sustainable materials and integrating nature-based infrastructure can also contribute to the long-term resilience of housing in the face of climate change.

Where should new housing be located?

The location of new housing should prioritise geotechnically stable sites that are not prone to flooding or fire hazards, while also preserving valuable ecosystems and cultural heritage. The proposed sites for housing should consider topographical features, existing infrastructure, and community needs, ensuring that development is both practical and environmentally sustainable. This strategic site selection will help to enhance the overall liveability and resilience of communities.

The five sites proposed are one existing and four greenfields:

  • Areas in existing flooded neighbourhoods close to the Lismore CBD

  • Crawford Landsite, South Lismore

  • Bangalow

  • Lismore Heights

  • Goonellabah

Are there forms of land tenure that will make it easier for people to access housing?

Exploring alternative forms of land tenure, such as community title and co-housing arrangements, can significantly enhance accessibility to housing. These models can facilitate shared resources and communal facilities, making it more affordable for residents to access housing. Additionally, innovative tenure models like rent-to-buy schemes can provide pathways for low-income households to achieve homeownership, increasing overall housing availability and diversity.

What are the most appropriate forms of housing to meet the needs of the current and future population?

Appropriate housing forms must reflect the diverse needs of the population, including options for multi-generational living, co-housing, and flexible layouts that can accommodate changing household dynamics. Housing typologies such as long houses, courtyard houses, and cluster houses can provide adaptable spaces that encourage community interaction while also being sensitive to the environment. By focusing on affordability and sustainability, these housing types can meet both current demands and future demographic shifts.

What are the fast and affordable ways to construct housing?

Fast and affordable housing construction can be achieved through the use of modular and prefabricated building techniques, which allow for quicker assembly and reduced on-site labour costs. Implementing lightweight materials and designs that minimize the need for extensive earthworks can also lower construction expenses. Additionally, designing housing units with flexible configurations enables efficient use of space and resources, facilitating rapid response to housing demands, especially in post-disaster scenarios.

How can we develop housing to foster social connectivity and accessibility?

Fostering social connectivity in housing development involves creating shared spaces and communal facilities that encourage interactions among residents. Designing neighbourhoods with pedestrian-friendly pathways, consolidated parking, and accessible communal areas can enhance social ties while ensuring that all community members, including those with disabilities, can navigate their environment easily. Incorporating features such as outdoor living areas and “sticky” places—where residents can gather—will promote a sense of community and belonging.

Emerging principles for future housing

In addition to these design solutions, three guiding principles are recommended for future housing developments.

Leading with landscape

Emphasising the importance of integrating homes with the surrounding environment to create sustainable communities.

Flexible dwelling configurations

Encouraging designs that can adapt to changing household needs and promote shared living.

Community connections

Fostering social interactions through well-designed public spaces and walkable neighbourhoods.

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Contributors

  • Martin Bryant

    Martin is a professor at the University of Technology Sydney School of Architecture and a qualified architect and landscape architect.

    He specialises in integrating urban and architectural design with ecological principles. His research includes publications in leading journals, an exhibition at the 2021 Venice Architecture Biennale, and authorship of the UN Habitat III policy paper on urban ecology and resilience.

    Martin has won multiple awards and led major projects in Australia and New Zealand, for the Government Architect NSW, Hassell, Aspect, and Wraight + Associates. He has designed significant contributions to Darling Harbour, Sydney Olympic Park, Green Square, and Auckland and Wellington waterfronts.

  • Elizabeth Mossop

    Elizabeth is a Professor of Landscape Architecture and former Dean of Design, Architecture and Building at University of Technology Sydney (UTS).

     A founding principal of Spackman Mossop Michaels, she has extensive experience in urban resilience and post-Katrina recovery in New Orleans and the Gulf Coast. Elizabeth has held leadership roles at Harvard GSD, Louisiana State University, and UNSW.

     She is currently a leader of Living Lab Northern Rivers, collaborating with Southern Cross University, UTS and the NSW Government to create more adaptable cities and towns.

  • Adam Russell

    Adam is an architect specialising in regenerative design and permaculture, advocating for their role in transitioning to a post-carbon economy. He is an expert in co-housing, affordable and alternative housing, public buildings, and urban design.

    Adam has served as a design critic, awards juror, and assessment panel member in NSW working with industry bodies, universities, and local government. A registered architect, he has taught architectural design at University of Technology Sydney, Western Sydney University, and the University of Newcastle.

  • Brooke Jackson

    Brooke is an architect, researcher, and educator specialising in housing policy and planning. She explores spatial standards in apartment design and the role of contemporary and future homes.

    Brooke has conducted research for Living Lab Northern Rivers, Government Architect NSW, and Landcom.

    With over 10 years of experience in Australia and London, Brooke has worked on diverse housing projects, including high-density residential and student housing. She leads Informal Architects in Sydney and directs the Master of Architecture program at UTS.