This project aims to create a contemporary, medium density development that creates both residential accommodation and tourism accommodation on a typical, small suburban site.

The dual occupancy development comprises two, contemporary two storey attached dwellings on a 600m2 suburban site in regional NSW.

The two dwellings each occupy 300m2 of site area and are a great example of contemporary medium density development on a typical suburban lot – in particular reflecting their ability to support increased density on suburban sites that are in walking distance to a CBD.

The two buildings respond positively to the existing street networks with internal spaces and private open spaces opening onto the street to allow for passive surveillance and engagement with the local neighbourhood, while also providing a high level of internal amenity through careful planning.

The heavy rammed earth walls provide a great level of thermal mass while responding to the prevailing neighbourhood character of masonry residential buildings.

The upper levels are clad in dark FC sheets which reduce the mass of the built forms.

Internal spaces are spatially generous with a series of two storey voids that connect the ground and upper levels and allow natural light and ventilation into the heart of the building.

Western glazing is minimised, while Northern glazing is appropriately shaded via overhangs with double glazed aluminium windows and doors throughout.

The rammed earth material is sourced from a local quarry and provides a great level of thermal mass internally.

Rainwater tanks and solar panels are provided, while good cross ventilation is provided through the double height volumes and careful positioning of window openings.

One of the properties has been sold to a retired local couple while one is available to rent on Airbnb.

This is a great example of a careful, contemporary, residential development that supports both tourism accommodation and residential accommodation on one small 600m2 site.

The reduction of existing housing stock in residential areas due to Airbnb is a growing issue for a number of regional towns and communities and this dual occupancy development is a good example of the fact that you can provide for both scenarios on a small site without diluting residential housing stock on the market.