Architecture

Housing Diversity

This project is a form of temporary bridging accommodation that is part of the resettlement process for refugee immigrants. Residents arrive on a bridging visa where they are facilitated to build independence and financial stability. Dandenong’s rich history in immigration resettlement has resulted in the establishment of many refugee assistant services and resource centres.

The site will become a node integrated within this network of support, providing flexible temporary bridging accommodation and additional public facilities to integrate new arrivals into the community. The scheme explores diversity in living, developing a concept around the inclusion of multi-cultural lifestyles. The architectural language is designed out of recreating instances that different people can relate to and feel comfortable adopting. A patchwork of collaging and stitching the various elements provide variances in scale, experience and interface. The scheme looks toward providing flexibility of form and function, where diversity is supported and difference is celebrated.