Architecture & Access is a proud supporter of Youngcare’s newly opened Share House at Wooloowin in Brisbane, offering young people with high care needs an attractive, age-appropriate housing option.
Four excited young Queenslanders moved into their brand new share house in mid-July, a special milestone for any young person and, in this case, a significant one for disability housing in Australia.
“Through our building program we create accommodation where young Australians with high care needs can enjoy the same lifestyle as others their age, living an independent life with appropriate and dignified care,” says Youngcare CEO Samantha Kennerley.
Patricia Flores, senior access consultant and State Manager of Architecture & Access in Queensland provided consultancy services, and was delighted to attend the public preview day of the Share House.
“It is a privilege to be associated with this project, which is clearly pioneering best practice in design as it responds to an issue of critical importance,” says Patricia. “It is incredible to think that over 7,000 young Australians are living in aged care because there is nowhere else for them to go.”
Youngcare is committed to driving change and developing practical alternatives to aged care.
The Wooloowin Share House design is underpinned by what is believed to be the first research of its kind in Australia, undertaken by Youngcare and Griffith University, into what young people need and want.
The hub of the house includes a spacious communal living area and kitchen, and each resident has their own balcony, bathroom, bedroom and kitchenette.
This home is distinctive for the innovative use of assistive technology, where lighting, audio, visual, automated doors and blinds are controlled at the touch of a fingertip, allowing for optimal independence.
“Having the right place to live will make all the difference to these young people’s enjoyment of greater freedom of movement, dignity and independence in daily life,” says Patricia.
For more information about this project visit the Youngcare website.
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