Home4Community

This proposal was selected to be part of the Irish Architecture Foundation / Housing Agency exhibition “Housing Unlocked” in 2022.

We propose economic, practical and desirable homes in a wonderful open green setting, while have the high density required to support local services and viable communal amenities , making a strong argument for a low rise, high density form of development.

Communities are formed in the spaces between dwellings. These must be carefully designed to nurture the formation of community. We propose a series of spaces for these interactions; from a shared bench at the front door to open green spaces. It fosters a strong sense of community, yet which remains affordable.

The individual homes, the heart of our proposal are in groups of four, each house having a side garden. This reduces external wall area thus reducing building and heating costs.

These homes are clustered to form identifiable communities. Small enough to recognise your neighbours yet with enough variety to accommodate a wide range of needs.

Our urban strategies are designed to put people first. Pedestrian and cycle access is prioritised with cars accommodated at the periphery. This increases the likelihood of active open spaces and positive social interactions.

A desirable density for urban locations is 60 units/ha. Typical suburbs have a density of 15 units per hectare. Local authorities are now seeking 35 units per hectare for these locations.

This new density with it’s 10-15% requirement for open space is often only achievable with a mix of houses and apartments.

At 68 units per hectare, we are providing all houses and providing over 20% communal open space. Our proposal provides a sustainable urban density while feeling suburban.

We developed this proposal in collaboration with timber frame manufacturers and with a community led housing group, Common Ground.

By:
JFOC Architects + Lagan Homes + FastHouse