Pascoe Vale Terraces(Small Footprint Housing)

Located on a corner site off Bell Street, this project demonstrates the potential efficiency of space and affordability captured in four 3-storey terraces. R Architecture crafted this design for an established developer consortium with a predominant residential project portfolio.

We took a cue from the diverse range of building typologies and uses at play in the area, to develop a sensitive, non-conventional approach to residential design. Our connective design strategy maximises the benefits of its desirable location in close proximity to the CBD, with public transport and convenient access to commercial and institutional amenities.

hese purpose-built dwellings represent a modern take on small footprint terrace housing, a historically significant typology in Melbourne. Confident forms protect the internal amenity of the dwellings with a close-knit buildscape, in hardy materials drawing on the language of its semi-industrial surroundings, establishing enduring quality from the outset.

Balancing external views with internal privacy, the building engages with its corner location through carefully placed terraces, windows and featured design elements, with street-facing yards that invite outdoor engagement. These strategic openings embed the homes in their lively locale, with windows proportioned and positioned to create a balanced facade.

Inside, small yet generous living spaces are positioned to capture the highest possible daylight and cross-flow ventilation, while successfully shielding street noise and movement along Bell Street. Practical, thoughtfully composed living and kitchen spaces spill out onto terraces which allow for visual extension of these areas while keeping their cosy appeal. The upper-level floor plate partially covers and frames terraces below, allowing more use of outdoor spaces, shading the living spaces below from the summer afternoon sun.

The design for these terraces offers peaceful refuge within the hustle-bustle of a busy surrounding. This unusual product typology has a unique response to its location, offering affordable, liveable, design-led homes to occupants, as well as an efficient solution to property developers, while successfully meeting council requirements for multi-residential living in a developing area.