Brief Background:
For 110 years SouthBank House has operated as rental accommodation. The homes were originally rented to wealthy families, and followed by the frequent occupation by music and singing teachers.The homes became synonymous with music in South Brisbane before being converted to flats in 1929.
To this day, the flats have been home to many local and international students and travellers requiring low-cost accommodation. Although the homes appear to have been returned to their original use as private dwellings, they are yet to undergo the proces of gentrification which has occurred through South Brisbane.
Project Vision:
With a long and colourful history, the redevelopment of Southbank House is an important part of the development of historic buildings in the makeup of Brisbane's inner city urban fabric. The background and proximity of Southbank House, creates a unique opportunity to address the growing need for affordable accommodation facilities within the community.
'Engendering a sense of community'
The redevelopment of Southbank House includes a provision for approximately 116 modern affordable acommodation rooms in a 'J' configuration around an attractive central community courtyard. The existing circa homes will undergo an adaptive re-use exercise, and ultimately be transformed into a range of common facilities for the residents.
The design encompasses a dynamic series of external and internal spaces, and maintains a strong environmental and technology awareness. It provides residents with a range of opportunities to enhance the social and cultural aspects of their lives.
