This studio reflects on the impact of introducing the Metro Tunnel, in a dense, complex and consolidated built environment that will connect some inner suburbs and the Melbourne Central Business District. In addition, it also focuses on the housing component of the building stock, producing an architectural intervention that reflects on contemporary as well as alternative modes of living. 

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The site is divided by Swanston Street, separating RMIT university on one side, and a student accommodation, private accommodation and some shop lots on the other. This creates a contrast on site as each individual building acts in isolation, having the need to further connect the community. 

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The proposed concept, Spirit of Community, makes the site less isolated. By demolishing part of the existing Aurora Melbourne Central, it brings down the hierarchy of buildings in the area, making it closer to the streets. The proposed housing system takes on the Co-Housing concept where people of all ages would live “together”, creating a community where important spaces like a shared courtyard and other communal spaces plays an important role.

 

The basement would contain retail shops, connecting people from the Metro Tunnel station at Melbourne Central to the site. This encourages more people to visit the site, making it an attraction to connect people. Pocket gardens between levels would also be introduced to create more green spaces acting as a breakout space for residents.

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