Challenge Cup 2025 Submissions

Teams were asked to explore transitional living models, wherein units or apartments function as an intermediary phase between institutional care and full independent living. The design challenge was to design a mid-rise (3-6 storey) apartment building that incorporates universal design principles and is mid-rise due to the understanding that with current housing needs not being met, an increase in densification is necessary. Using high-quality prefabricated building methods, or smart building, provides an opportunity to explore smarter ways of incorporating universal design and assistive technologies from the outset. There is also the potential to explore flexible and adaptive spaces within the building. As our understanding of disability increases and our population ages, the outcome should be a building that is replicable and appropriate.

Submissions

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Solace by Six Degrees | Deakin University Geelong

Solace – Where Transition Finds Peace, is a six-storey transitional living facility set on a 3,143.42 m2 site in Geelong. Designed to accommodate 41 diverse dwelling units for individuals and families, the proposal directly addresses the challenge of creating resilient, adaptable, and socially impactful prefabricated infrastructure.

Space that Heal | Structure That Last by Prefab GOATS, University of Melbourne (VIC)

To facilitate independent living for people with physical, cognitive, or psychosocial challenges, this initiative suggests a six-story transitional housing model. The structure is ideally situated to accommodate the region's developing healthcare services and satisfy the increasing demand in Melbourne's expanding western corridor, as it is only 700 metres from the new Footscray Hospital, which is scheduled to open in late 2025.

Circulux by Axion, Western Sydney University (NSW)

Circulux is an innovative prefabricated development by the Axion Team, located beside Tallawong Metro Station in Sydney’s Northwest Growth Area. Inspired by the Latin roots circulus (circle) and lux (light), the design features a circular, light-oriented form that enhances modularity, spatial clarity, and performance. Its geometry supports a Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA) strategy, enabling repeated prefabricated modules that streamline off-site fabrication, reduce waste, and improve build quality.

BARA-MOD by Connect, Western Sydney University (NSW)

BARAMOD is a modular mid-rise project by the Connect Team that redefines inclusive urban living through prefabrication, sustainability, and digital coordination. Designed around a central breathable void, the layout enhances vertical connectivity, daylight access, and passive ventilation while ensuring perceptible spatial orientation for all users. Arched entrances, transparent openings, and generous voids support universal design principles, allowing intuitive navigation and accessibility for people of all abilities.

Mobility House by STUDIO THURLEIGH, Deakin University Geelong (VIC)

This project introduces a transformative approach to transitional housing, presenting a smart, modular, and prefabricated facility tailored specifically for individuals with disabilities—particularly youth with physical impairments—who are transitioning from institutional care settings to independent community living. The proposal aligns closely with the architectural competition brief by directly addressing the challenge to leverage Industry 4.0 technologies and construction innovation to improve housing adaptability, sustainability, and social equity.

Waranara Living by the XD-Volumetrix, Western Sydney University (NSW)

Waranara Living is a five-storey mixed-use development in Blacktown, NSW, that reimagines modular housing through inclusion, innovation, and storytelling. Named after the Aboriginal word meaning “to seek” or “to explore,” the project embraces a universal design ethos, prioritising equitable access and lived experience. Anchored by a central spiralling ramp—A Bridge Beyond Walls—and a sculpted biophilic void, the design ensures intuitive, step-free navigation and passive climate comfort across all levels.

Ngalan Wurun by Axis, RMIT (VIC)

Ngalan Wurun, meaning “Together Home” in the Woiwurrung language, is a four-storey modular residential complex in Northcote, Melbourne designed to provide inclusive, supported living for young people with disabilities. This innovative design solution reimagines disability housing by integrating accessibility, community connection, and sustainability at every level.