St George Community Housing, Cartwright

The St George Community Housing development located in Cartwright comprises 64 units across two four-storey buildings. The $16.5 million development, which provides sustainable, safe and affordable housing, was a key project in a government supported roll out of Social and Affordable Housing Projects across Sydney.

The project involved the demolition of six houses and the design and construction of two four-storey buildings at 14 Willan Drive and 20 Willan Drive, Cartwright. The buildings mirror each other, with each building comprising 32 units including 6 one bedroom units and 26 two bedroom units. The complex has on-ground parking for 32 cars with six spaces for dedicated accessible units.

Next were engaged to design and construct the Project in line with the Silver and Platinum Liveable Design Guidelines, which provides safer, adaptable and accessible amenities for elderly or physically disadvantaged tenants.  Next ensured the units were designed to prioritise comfort, safety and ease of access as core design features.

The housing development also achieved a 7.6 star Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) rating, ensuring it was energy efficient and provided tenants with long term cost savings on energy bills through efficient design choices. Next’s OFSC (Office of the Federal Safety Commissioner) accreditation is a mandatory requirement for engagement on this project as it was part funded by the Clean Energy Finance Corporation which is funded by the Federal Government.

The design features a striking brick veneer façade, with contrasting red, brown and white face bricks, vinyl acoustically treated timber look flooring, durable appliances and utilities, monochrome high-end look laminate joinery, white tiled kitchen splashback, built-in wardrobes and quality fixtures and fittings.

The units are light-filled and spacious with balconies to create contemporary, quality living environments. The development also features a communal rooftop garden and BBQ space, to provide additional outdoor areas for tenants and promote community engagement.

Scope of works included the design and construct of a new substation, low voltage pillar and bringing a new gas main into the development. The project was constructed concurrent with another project Next undertook for SGCH in the adjoining suburb of Miller.

The Next teams delivered all projects within 13 months, allowing for a seamless coordination of subcontractors, target programs and effective communication with the client managing the process of incoming tenants at final building occupation stage.