When it comes to housing, one size definitely does not fit all. This is a lesson that architect Sara Pearson learned firsthand when she embarked on a quest to find the perfect home for her father, Allen. What started as a simple search for a compact, convenient residence turned into a journey of discovery and innovation.
The Search for a Suitable Home
Sara, an advocate for smaller homes, was determined to find a place that would suit her dad's needs. However, the market presented challenges. Most available homes were either too large, located on extensive blocks, or outdated, which would have resulted in costly retrofitting. As Sara puts it, "It would have been like wearing a suit that is too big for you."
A Unique Solution
Not finding what she was looking for, Sara decided to create the ideal home herself. She envisioned a compact, sun-oriented dwelling with valley views, all without intruding on neighbors' spaces. This led to the innovative idea of halving a 1250-square-meter block horizontally, resulting in two well-insulated, three-bedroom homes of 113 square meters each.
The Impact of Gentle Density
Sara's project, Goonellabah Houses, showcases the potential of 'gentle density.' By doubling the usual density, each home is approximately half the size of the average new Australian home. This approach not only increases housing supply but also reduces costs. A Grattan Institute report highlights the commercial feasibility of building additional smaller homes on large residential blocks in Sydney, which could accommodate up to 400,000 new developments.
Addressing Urban Growth
Architects like Sara and Phillip Arnold are leading the way in increasing density at a suburban level. Arnold's project, the Kingsford Acropolis, transformed a single block into two long homes with garages and granny flats, increasing the number of bedrooms from three to ten. As Arnold notes, "We've got a city that is growing in population and massively sprawling, so we need to address density."
A Personal Touch
Sara's decision to build Goonellabah Houses not only provided her father with a perfect home but also led her to relocate to Lismore. The project exceeded expectations, and the personal connection to the space was undeniable. Allen's feedback speaks volumes: "Nothing is out of my reach... The views are superb, but the close physical contact with nature is better."
Conclusion
The story of Goonellabah Houses is a testament to the power of innovative thinking in architecture. By challenging conventional practices and embracing gentle density, architects can address housing needs, increase supply, and create unique, personalized spaces. As we continue to grapple with urban growth, projects like these offer a refreshing perspective on how we can build better, more sustainable communities.
