A design guide has been created by industry experts to shape the future of urban living in new Sunshine Coast apartments and townhouses.
Sunshine Coast Council launched the guide, which is aimed at encouraging climate-responsive design that reflects the region’s character.
Produced by council architects and urban designers alongside industry representatives and design professionals, the new guide follows on from the award-winning Sunshine Coast Design book.
The new guide includes tips and photos to support the design process with consideration of site location, orientation and surrounding environment; orientation to maximise sunlight and breeze and merge indoor-outdoor spaces; maximising natural light, greenery, landscape and trees; enhancing street appeal; using sustainable building materials; creating useable and welcoming communal areas; and designing for accessibility and inclusion.
Councillor Tim Burns said the guide demonstrated council’s commitment to supporting and encouraging design quality in a built environment.
“Great design doesn’t happen by accident. It requires thoughtful collaboration,” he said.
“Future housing, including apartments and townhouses, should be aesthetically pleasing, functional, promote an indoor-outdoor lifestyle and work with the climate, especially as we live with the increasing impacts of climate change.
“Our new guide is a valuable tool for anyone involved in medium-density residential development.
“This includes designers and architects, planners, developers, local government and investors.
“It even serves as an educational resource for buyers, renters and real estate agents, highlighting what makes an apartment or townhouse a great place to live.”
Cr Burns said the council was working with the community to nurture and enhance environment and quality of life.
“As our population increases, it is crucial that all new housing benefits residents, the neighbourhood, the environment and the broader community,” he said.
“With an emphasis on creating homes that are functional and appealing and deeply connected to the Sunshine Coast’s environment and way of life, the design guide for apartments and townhouses is a step forward in safeguarding the area’s natural and cultural heritage.”
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Coolum resident Ben Nelson, who lives in an architecturally designed townhouse complex, said he valued the community and connection offered in a multi-unit dwelling complex.
“Our complex fits perfectly with the local coastal character and I’m proud to live in a beautifully designed complex,” he said.
“These townhouses have been sustainably designed, capturing the sunlight and coastal breeze and truly embracing indoor-outdoor lifestyle for every season.
“Our complex has fostered a lovely sense of community. From shared barbecues to impromptu catch-ups, there is always a feeling of connection and support among the residents.”
