Water Street Apartments

Cairns, Far North Queensland

The Water Street social housing unit complex is a 5-storey building located near the Cairns CBD, offering convenient access to public transport and shopping precincts.

Designed to provide affordable housing for low-income households, the project focuses on creating a living environment that promotes communal well-being and social interaction.

The units are thoughtfully arranged around a central open-air void, enabling natural ventilation throughout the building, both vertically and laterally. This configuration ensures that doors and windows can remain open, facilitating effective cross-ventilation in the absence of air conditioning. Communal areas are strategically distributed across the building, encouraging residents to engage with spaces beyond their units.

Service areas, including clothes drying and storage spaces, are positioned off the central void, further activating the internal spaces and fostering interaction among residents. The design prioritizes sustainability and social connectivity, creating a vibrant and healthy living environment.

Client
Department of Housing and Public Works

Year
2021

Value
6M

Services
Architecture

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