The role of the multiple residential dwelling is evolving, prioritizing not just living space, but living well, living closer, and living together. •
- Living well: incorporating amenities like restaurants, shops, and entertainment facilities
- Living closer: creating vibrant, self-contained hubs with a sense of community
- Living together: fostering a sense of belonging and connection through communal spaces and shared resources
This shift is driven by a growing recognition that multi-residential dwellings have the potential to be more than just places to live – they can be catalysts for positive change, shaping our relationships with the environment and with each other. The concept of the “20-minute neighbourhood” is gaining momentum, transforming the metropolitan landscape into a network of interconnected villages. •
| Key Features | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Access to amenities within a short stroll or bike ride | Reduces reliance on cars or public transport, promotes active movement, and fosters a sense of community |
| Varied amenities like restaurants, shops, and collaborative spaces | Creates vibrant, self-contained hubs that support residents’ daily needs |
| Rooftop gardens and entertainment facilities | Fosters a sense of connection and community among residents |
By incorporating these features, new multi-residential projects are reimagining the potential of apartment living, recognizing that caring about the environment requires caring about one another. An increasing number of Australia’s multiple residential dwellings are embracing co-living, a fresh approach to shared housing that involves far more than splitting the rent. •
- Co-living spaces are intentionally designed to facilitate a sense of belonging and connection among residents
- Communal areas encourage interaction and shared resources that lessen occupants’ environmental footprint
- Co-living promotes a sense of community and social inclusion among residents
Co-living spaces are becoming more prevalent across urban developments, and their popularity is expected to continue growing as the demand for affordable, community-oriented, and sustainable housing increases. Australia’s population is ageing, and multi-residential developments are responding by embracing design principles that cater to the needs of residents of all ages and abilities. •
- Accessible, future-forward design that prioritizes comfort and aesthetic appeal
- Easy-to-navigate corridors and communal areas that encourage social inclusion
- Adaptable spaces that support residents’ changing needs
This approach not only enhances the quality of life for older residents but also creates a more inclusive environment for everyone, for longer. Multiple residential dwellings aren’t stepping up only when it comes to more inclusive, enduring, and community-first design – they’re also ensuring residents can thrive while embracing net-zero living. •
The Rise of Net-Zero Energy and Water-Sensitive Design
The fact that net-zero energy consumption is becoming a reality in multi-residential development is particularly exciting, as it signals a momentous shift in how we design and inhabit apartment buildings. •
| Key Features | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Dynamic facades that adapt to changing weather | Maximises natural light while minimising energy waste |
| Smart building systems that integrate with residents’ lives | Optimises energy use based on real-time data and individual preferences |
| Water-sensitive design principles | Reduces water consumption and promotes efficient use of this precious resource |
This shift towards sustainable architecture is not only about reducing environmental impact but also about empowering residents and fostering a sense of shared responsibility. •
“Net-zero apartment living isn’t just about reducing environmental impact – it’s about creating a sense of shared purpose and collective well-being. By integrating sustainable technologies and design strategies, these developments become vibrant ecosystems where residents actively participate in creating a sustainable future.”
By incorporating water-sensitive design principles, architects can ensure the quality of the water that flows through the building and safeguard occupant health. •
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- Rainwater harvesting
- Efficient and smart water fixtures
- Multifaceted approach to water management that considers the entire water cycle within the building
This proactive measure ensures that future multi-residential developments prioritize occupant health and well-being, aligning with a holistic approach to sustainable living that respects water as a precious resource in more ways than one. These trends highlight a shift in the perception of multiple residential dwellings. They are no longer viewed solely as housing solutions but as vital elements of a sustainable and interconnected urban future. •
The Future of Apartment Living
From ‘urban villages’ and the rise of co-living to the integration of net-zero energy and water-sensitive design principles, the future of apartment living lies in fostering community and environmental responsibility. •
- Fostering community and environmental responsibility
- Creating vibrant, self-contained hubs that support residents’ daily needs
- Empowering residents and fostering a sense of shared purpose and collective well-being
In remembering that multi-res dwellings aren’t just about living spaces – they’re about living well, living closer, and living together.
