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Retrofitted Red Brick Car Parks for Sustainable Urban Living

Authors:
Ieuan Hook, Paul Ventrice
Retrofitted Red Brick Car Parks for Sustainable Urban Living
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The conversion of under-utilised multi-storey car parks, highlighted by retained red brickwork and on-structure landscaping, transforms urban living spaces into affordable housing solutions that foster community in Melbourne.
5 key facts about this project
01
Repurposes existing car park structures for residential use.
02
Retains original red brickwork to preserve historical character.
03
Integrates communal facilities to enhance community interaction.
04
Incorporates on-structure landscaping for ecological benefits.
05
Offers various dwelling sizes to accommodate diverse residents.

The project focuses on retrofitting multi-storey car parks in Melbourne, specifically at 28 Gladstone Street, Moonee Ponds. The aim is to convert these under-utilised spaces into multi-density housing. Melbourne faces a growing housing crisis, needing an estimated 1.6 million affordable homes in the next few decades. The design seeks to address this issue while responding to changes in transportation trends that prioritize public transport, cycling, and walking over car usage.

Adaptation of Existing Infrastructure
The core concept is to repurpose the structure of the existing car park. This allows for a mixed-use development that can accommodate different types of residents. The design includes various dwelling sizes suitable for different lifestyles, from single individuals to families. This variety fosters community connections and social interactions among residents.

Multi-Density Housing Typology
Efficient land use is key to the design. It incorporates multiple residential types—low, medium, and high-density units. By layering these units, the design maximizes the number of homes available while creating communal spaces that encourage engagement. These shared areas promote a sense of community and enhance the overall living experience for residents.

Material Heritage and Aesthetic
The project pays special attention to preserving the original red brickwork of the car park. This aspect helps maintain the building's architectural character and aligns the new design with the historical context of the area. By blending old features with new elements, the design reinforces a connection to Melbourne's architectural heritage while providing modern living spaces.

Sustainable Urban Development
Introducing affordable housing in the city center aims to reduce dependence on suburban living. Adapting existing structures, like car parks, demonstrates a practical approach to addressing housing shortages. The design aligns with sustainability goals by reusing materials and spaces, contributing to a more efficient urban environment.

The addition of landscaping enhances the project further. Green spaces within the development create inviting areas for recreation and relaxation. This focus on natural elements helps to build a sense of community and encourages residents to engage with their surroundings.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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