“A pocket neighbourhood comprises a collection of smaller residences grouped together for the purpose of a planned community, with shared facilities like a communal courtyard or shared vegetable garden. The idea is to promote a sense of belonging, increasing interaction and good relations between neighbours.”[1]

Communal living in this sense is often seen throughout European cities where an increase in density has existed constantly and has existed within large portions of European cities. However in Auckland this phenomenon is only experienced within hostels, university owned apartments. Due to the ever increasing rent within Auckland and the lack of funding for students furthering their education, the need for an increase in density within the wider suburbia of Auckland city is imminent. Through each iteration this community exists as outlining the potentiality for merging affordability into Auckland’s’ centralised suburbs. Designing through experience in response to the currently unaffordable and unexciting accommodation, provides an alternative lifestyle option whilst challenging the current student housing model.

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Capturing the views of Albert Park from above sit three tree-house like towers enclosed in cedar panels. Each one connected to the other by lightweight timber balconies enclosed in sliding shutters, enabling the occupants to customise their views. Tying these circulation spaces together hangs interactive netting, creating large hammock like areas suitable for lounging and play. On the north western corner of the site sits a multi-level glass house, enabling the towers occupants to grow fresh food alongside the day care children, providing valuable life experience for the future.       

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The architecture is never fully completed once built, both purpose and form evolve throughout its life as the environment surrounding it does. Through iterative responses to the surrounding context, a strategy for change is explored through modular growth and developed in relation to the adaptability of the existing. Previously existing on site stood a university owned Day-care facility. Integration of the existing and student living reflects the practicality of this method. Resulting in blended boundaries increasing social interactions between independent students and the wider public which promotes communal and affordable living for those living on campus and providing necessary child-care facilities in conjunction with this pocket community.

 

References:​

[1] F-A-B-R-I-C. What is a Pocket Neighbourhood? Home & Design magazine, pg 29. March 2017.