ARCT5202 Detailed Design Studio 2 Unit Coordinator: Dr Rosangela Tenorio Studio Coordinator: Gemma Hohnen ‘Post Adaptive Midland’
CERESSA JUBAINSKI
‘Key workers in Midland’
The project brief for the design of key-worker apartments in Midland and the retention of existing on-site public parking, began with design work at masterplan, examining potential for liveability with the existing conditions but also future adaptation and speculation as our car dependency is reduced. Key workers offer an indispensable service, their role holds immense importance in the community and demands an elevated level of responsibility and commitment. It can be an extremely stressful and exhausting job. Key workers must have access to amenities to maintain their physical and mental well-being. In this project, the focus is on improving the quality of life for workers by providing residences that meet their needs and feel like home with easy access to the amenities needed. A place with plenty of light, ventilation, green spaces, and opportunities to interact with the neighbours. All apartments have their living room to the north to get most of the winter sun. Bedrooms are positioned on the southern side to avoid overheating during the night promoting an excellent quality of sleep. Dual aspects are available for every residence. The courtyard is a space for gathering and contact with nature. It also allows distance between the two buildings for at least 4 hours of winter sun to all homes. The selection of materials is consciously chosen, achieving a building with a minimal carbon footprint. GGBS (Ground Granulated Blast-furnace Slag) replaces 70% of cement mix in the primary structure. Cupolex is used for concrete slabs which are made from 100% recycled car batteries and use 5-8% less concrete than a typical slab. Bricks have no manufacturing process as they are recycled, lowering the embodied carbon significantly. For acoustic and thermal comfort, Durra Panel is added to the wall buildup, a by-product made from reclaimed straw, replaced the typical wallboard.
Image: Axonometric, Key workers in Midland.
108
