In a world where housing shortages and rising costs are becoming increasingly prevalent, innovative solutions are needed to meet the demands of a growing population. One such solution is the concept of 'gentle density' - a strategy that involves building smaller, more compact homes on smaller blocks of land. This approach not only addresses the housing crisis but also promotes a more sustainable and environmentally friendly way of living.
Sara Pearson, an architect, has taken this concept to the next level by designing and building a compact detached home for her father, Allen, a retired cattle farmer and vet. The project, Goonellabah Houses, is a testament to the power of innovative thinking and the potential of gentle density.
One of the key challenges that Sara faced was finding a home that met her father's needs and preferences. Allen, a 'mountain goat' who enjoys gardening and being close to nature, required a space that was both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Sara's solution was to build a compact home that was oriented to the sun and had views across the valley, without interrupting the outlooks of neighboring properties.
The project is a prime example of how gentle density can be achieved without compromising on quality or functionality. By halving a 1250-square-meter hilly block horizontally, Sara was able to create two 113-square-meter well-insulated three-bedroom homes. This approach not only increased the density of the block but also reduced the cost of construction and maintenance.
The benefits of gentle density are not limited to individual projects like Goonellabah Houses. A Grattan Institute report found that half of all residential-zoned blocks in Sydney are larger than 600 square meters, and that these blocks could accommodate additional smaller homes. This would not only increase the supply of housing but also reduce housing costs and promote a more sustainable way of living.
However, the benefits of gentle density are not without their challenges. One of the main obstacles is the perception that smaller homes are not desirable or functional. As Sara notes, 'I think we all overestimate the size of the space we need to live well in.' This perception needs to be challenged, as smaller homes can be designed to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
In my opinion, the Goonellabah Houses project is a shining example of how innovative thinking and gentle density can be used to address the housing crisis. It demonstrates the potential of smaller homes to be both functional and desirable, and it highlights the importance of challenging traditional perceptions of housing. As we continue to grapple with the challenges of housing shortages and rising costs, projects like Goonellabah Houses offer a glimmer of hope for a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future.
