A Hobart housing complex for vulnerable youth designed by Liminal Architecture is moving forward, with the Tasmanian government calling for construction tenders.
The development will deliver 26 independent residential units for people between the ages of 16 and 24 years, along with an “urban community hub” where support and education services will be available to both residents and non-residents.
To be known as the Hobart Youth Foyer, the project is part of the state government’s Youth 2 Independence (Y2I) Program, which combines housing and training to break down structural barries affecting young people at risk of homelessness.
Liminal’s design responds to the “layered” urban context ans surrounding heritage masonry.
“Located in a transitional position between commercial and city precincts, the site holds a bookend status and acts as a ‘marker’ within the larger city context,” the practice notes in a design statement.
“The building is made up of modular housing units that are pushed and pulled to create individual expression and serve to open up social areas, break-out nooks and green spaces, enabling natural elements to perforate the circulation spaces.
“The translucent, light-weight skin that ‘cloaks’ the building adds a layer of vibrancy, picking up on the red and orange hues of the contextual palette while also offering shading and privacy for the building’s occupants.”
Housing minister Michael Ferguson said the Hobart facility will be located near Tas TAFE, transport and other services. “The Y2I development is an optimal solution for this inner-city site which was originally designed to provide more residential units,” he said.
“Young people transitioning to adulthood coupled with circumstances like family breakdown, trauma and ill health may find themselves disconnected from education, employment, housing and support.
“There are also challenges for our youth finding accommodation through population growth which is putting pressure on housing availability.
“Participants in the Youth2Independence program agree to work with their support providers to develop independence in the areas of: education, employment, health and wellbeing, housing and living skills, community participation and social connections.
“In return, these young people enjoy safe, secure, supported and affordable accommodation for up to two years.”
Rent is capped at 25 percent of income. There are three existing Y2I facilities – Thyne House (Launceston), Eveline House (Devonport) and Trinity House (Hobart) – and another 25-bed facility is planned for Burnie.
Source: Architecture - architectureau
