This proposal seeks to provide a new urban neighbourhood that works creatively with density issues and a diverse range of housing types. The proposal is based on the premise that fifty percent of the site is given over to community landscape. This is achieved by restricting car access to the site and by developing two new typologies - courtyard row houses for affordable housing and a figured mixed income condominium.

To urbanise the site we have reinforced the street by positioning the courtyard row houses facing outwards along the perimeter of the block. Grouping the courtyard houses into threes strengthens their urban form and helps to invite and frame entry to the community landscape.

The condominium building is raised off the ground to provide for parking and visual continuity across the site. It has a 15,000 square foot roof terrace for the enjoyment of its residents. The form of the condominium carves a sequence of public spaces. It will provide an urban landmark to give a new identity and visual cohesion to the neighbourhood. It is an icon for Habitat’s new development strategy.

At the heart of the scheme is some 50,000 square feet of community landscape - the means of crossing the site by foot, a place for children to play in safety, for senior citizens to enjoy at their leisure and for all the residents to enjoy visually. Retail outlets and commercial spaces open onto the landscape. There is also a children’s playground.