Mercy Connect

The design intent for this project is to create dignified living and dwelling with a spirit of independence in a supported community environment. The Social Hub is at the centre of the site, around which are 5 independent living units and 2 two-bedroom villas. Each independent living unit is NDIS Fully Accessible standard, and the villas are NDIS High Physical Support standard.

The residential architecture reflects the Social Hub, with intentional use of a sympathetic material palette. The framing and construction method of the residential buildings is more traditional, with high volumes in the living areas with clerestory windows for daylight and natural ventilation.

Utilising the main driveway of Mercy Connects’ adjacent property enables safe and easy pick-up and drop-off by vans and cars, allowing the coffee shop in the Social Hub to be a more friendly street face to the property. The driveway and the parked cars are screened within the site with landscape to reduce the visual presence and reduce summer heat.

Housing that provides agency and a sense of independence within a supported environment with generous spaces that can be appreciated by one’s whole range of senses. Spaces have an openness and volume that can be felt as well as seen, with access to direct sunlight.