Supporting the design of a cooperative housing model in the Bay of Plenty.
The Challenge:
The project aimed to design and develop a viable cooperative housing model that could be implemented on a specific site in Katikati, and then at Binnie Road Village in Tauranga, Bay of Plenty. The challenge involved creating a housing structure that was not only affordable and sustainable but also fostered a strong sense of community among residents. This required navigating the complexities of cooperative ownership, legal structures, funding options, and ensuring the design was appropriate for the local context and met the needs of potential residents.
The Solution:
TUA supported the design and development of the cooperative housing structure. TUA provided expertise in urban development, housing models, and community-focused design; working to define the core principles of the cooperative model, explore suitable legal and financial frameworks, and develop site-specific design concepts that promoted shared spaces and resident interaction. TUA's approach focused on creating a practical and innovative housing solution that addressed the challenge of affordability while building a resilient and engaged community. By supporting the design process with expert advice and practical considerations, TUA helped lay the groundwork for a cooperative housing project that could offer a new pathway to homeownership and change the way neighbourhoods are built and experienced.
The Journey:
TUA's in-depth knowledge of diverse housing typologies and alternative ownership models was crucial in guiding the selection and adaptation of a cooperative structure best suited for the Katikati context and project goals. This included exploring successful examples and tailoring them to local conditions. TUA also facilitated a collaborative design process, working closely with the client and stakeholders to ensure the model reflected the aspirations of the future residents and the broader community. This participatory approach helped to build consensus and ownership of the project vision. Our focus on the practicalities of implementation, including considerations of governance, financing, and long-term management, meant we were able to provide the client with a realistic roadmap for bringing the cooperative housing model to fruition, ultimately increasing the potential for a successful and impactful development.
