The Queensland government has released preliminary designs for a youth housing facility in Townsville.
Designed by local architects Counterpoint Architecture for the Gulliver Youth Foyer, the facility will be a mix of flexible shared living spaces that support recreation, social connection and educational activities.
The design includes 40 self-contained units alongside a communal kitchen and living area, as well as meeting spaces, training rooms, outdoor dining spaces and more.
Townsville was selected for the project for its high demand for independent and supportive housing for young people wanting to pursue education and employment opportunities.
The Townsville Youth Foyer will be located on the Pimlico TAFE site, chosen for its direct access to study and training facilities.
Once completed, the facility will provide housing for 40 young people aged 16 to 25 who are in need of safe, stable and affordable housing.
The design includes 40 self-contained units alongside a communal kitchen and living area, as well as meeting spaces, training rooms, outdoor dining spaces and more .
Image:
Counterpoint Architecture
Minister for Communities and Housing Leeanne Enoch said the plans have been based on similar initiatives in place in Logan and the Gold Coast.
Conditions of residence include that tenants must be undertaking study or training for work, and antisocial behaviour will not be tolerated.
Youth foyers are recognized as a vital resource to help young people to access education, training and employment through housing and support.
Townsville’s Youth Foyer in Gulliver will be managed by not-for-profit Mission Australia, who will provide onsite mentoring and support so that residents can access further training and employment pathways.
“Many of these young people come from backgrounds where their home life may not have been safe, so to have a facility like this gives them the opportunity to have a stable home where they can commit to studying or a job, and to have positive mentors in their life,” said Mission Australia leader for the region, Phil Flint.
The facility will to help young adults learn practical life skills to enable them to eventually transition into longer-term private rental housing.
Tenants will receive coaching and mentoring to learn basic skills including budgeting, financial management, cooking and how to be a good tenant.
The model provides young people with stable accommodation for up to two years in a supported living environment.
The project is expected to commence construction in late 2022, with completion anticipated for late 2023.
The preliminary designs are available for public comment via the Queensland government’s website until 7 April.
Source: Architecture - architectureau
