Designing for Country by Horizon Studio | Curtain University

This proposal presents an innovative modular housing solution for Derby, Western Australia, that demonstrates how Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) can strengthen cultural identity while delivering sustainable, high-quality housing for Indigenous communities. Using prefabricated timber construction, the project combines environmental responsibility with culturally informed design to create a flexible community that extends beyond housing.

Each residential cluster is organised around a shared courtyard that supports yarning, communal gathering, and intergenerational knowledge sharing. Ground floors are dedicated to skill transfer, including cattle farming, community kitchens, preschool learning, retail spaces, and artisan workshops, creating opportunities for education employment, and local enterprise. Flexible modular layouts allow these spaces to adapt to changing community needs over time.

Timber is adopted as the primary structural and cladding material due to its sustainability, natural character, and suitability for off-site prefabrication and transport. Passive ventilation, locally appropriate landscaping, and extensive use of native vegetation respond to Derby's hot climate while strengthening connection to Country. Indigenous participation in landscape construction further promotes employment and cultural stewardship.

Rather than simply providing housing, the proposal establishes a resilient, culturally grounded framework that supports self-determination strengthens community wellbeing, preserves Indigenous traditions and creates long-term social, environmental, and economic opportunities.