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.
The project comprises 2,600mí of integrated therapeutic programs, including art studios, a sensory area, a small indoor pool, occupational and physical therapy facilities, and 78 accessible living units. Diverse unit types, including studio, 1 bed and 2 bed, could Support Diverse family groups' needs for assistance. The program aims to reintegrate into society, and overall recovery is supported by these facilities across the arts, sports and healthcare facilities around the Project.
Planter boxes and passive shading features may be easily installed thanks to the structure's lightweight CLT and composite slab system and modular metal cladding. A grid of small solar panels on the roof can generate up to 13kW, which is used to partially power community infrastructure.
Using the modular construction system with containers enables faster construction and reduces project cost, time consumption could enable faster supply of the Housing.
This project is a repeatable model for future urban care infrastructure, where housing, health, and social connection interact to empower individuals toward greater independence and it could be a formative application of the modular container project.
