The housing challenge

South East Queensland faces a significant housing challenge as its population surges. Projections indicate an increase of two million people over the next 20 years, reaching six million by 2046. In response, the Queensland Government has committed to supporting the delivery of 1 million new homes. However, this numerical target alone may not address the complex housing needs of a diverse and growing population.

Lifestyle changes are further complicating this challenge. Households are becoming smaller, people are living longer, and work patterns are evolving. These shifts necessitate different kinds of housing, and more of it. Additionally, there’s a pressing need to manage the cost of living by strategically planning new homes close to work, shops, schools, and transport.

Beyond the numbers:

A tailored approach To meet these challenges, leading design firm Plus Architecture advocates for a placemaking approach – creating quality places where people want to live, work, play and learn. This strategy is crucial in addressing Queensland’s housing affordability crisis and diverse demographic needs.

Danny Juric, Director at Plus Architecture, emphasises the importance of thorough research and community consultation: “Without understanding the specific needs of the diverse demographics that make up society, we risk creating developments that fail to meet both the short-term needs of occupants and the long-term placemaking needs of the city.”

Chrisney Formosa, Principal at Plus Architecture, adds: “We’re seeing a significant uptick in international students and an aging population. These are just two examples of different groups in society who have varying needs, and the housing being designed for them should respond accordingly. A one-size-fits-all approach simply doesn’t work.”

Plus Architecture’s commitment to this approach is evident in their current work across Queensland. With two studios in the state, the firm is currently engaged in 80 multi-residential developments, totaling 7000 dwellings. These projects span a range of housing typologies, including Purpose Built Student Accommodation (PBSA), Retirement Living and Aged Care facilities, Social and Affordable Housing, Town Houses, Build to Rent, and boutique multi-residential developments.

Case studies in innovation – Three projects exemplify Plus Architecture’s approach to designing for different demographics while incorporating placemaking principles:

Old Dayboro Road — Student Accommodation Reimagined

The Old Dayboro Road student accommodation project, located near the University of the Sunshine Coast’s Moreton Bay campus, is designed to support the needs of the growing student population. The 203-bed facility offers modern amenities and spaces that encourage both academic and social engagement.

Chrisney Formosa explains the design philosophy: “Our design blends functionality with a vibrant community spirit, inspiring and engaging its residents. We’ve drawn inspiration from the local cultural and educational context to create a space that’s both iconic and contextually significant.”

The project features entertainment spaces, study areas, and green spaces that promote a balanced lifestyle. Its engaging street frontage connects with the wider community, contributing to the area’s development as a student hub.

Drift Residences — luxury coastal living

Located near Main Beach on the Gold Coast, Drift Residences offers luxury whole-floor apartments designed for those seeking a premium coastal lifestyle.

Danny Juric discusses the project’s unique features: “From the outset, we were tasked to design a lifestyle rather than just an apartment building. Every detail is considered in curating an experience inspired by the coastal location. Privacy and comfort are paramount, complemented by unprecedented views and a supreme location.”

The development includes amenities such as a private day spa and spaces designed to offer the convenience of suburban living with the advantages of a prime beachside location.

Kedron Avenue — innovative affordable housing

The Kedron Avenue project in Miami represents an innovative approach to more affordable housing options. This build-to-rent development provides 109 units over 7 levels, with an emphasis on shared amenities and sustainable living.

Chrisney Formosa highlights the project’s community-focused design: “This new model of housing will provide a more accessible option in the area, allowing new demographics to find a home here. We’ve incorporated various sustainable initiatives and communal spaces to foster a sense of community and promote environmentally conscious living.”

The development includes amenities such as a gym, co-working space, and productive garden. Its design responds to the site’s unique form and flood susceptibility, while still creating an inviting street-level interface.

Shaping Queensland’s future: a call to action

The housing challenges facing Queensland indicate that a paradigm shift in how the industry approaches development is critical. Recent research by Place Score, in their 2023 Australian Liveability Census, highlights that Australians value green spaces, walkability, well-maintained environments, and proximity to amenities — emphasising the need to refocus attention on outcomes as opposed to just outputs.

Danny Juric emphasises the urgency of this shift: “By tailoring designs to specific demographics and prioritising placemaking, we can create housing solutions that not only meet immediate needs of residents but also contribute positively to the broader community. This approach is essential as we work to address Queensland’s housing challenges.”

These insights should serve as a rallying cry for both government and industry. Government bodies must ensure housing policy encourages developers and architects to prioritise creating communities, not just buildings. Adopting these strategies has the potential to lead to more vibrant, sustainable communities, improving quality of life for current and future residents.