This project brief was born of a very common issue many Melbournians face: affordable housing within the inner suburbs positioned close to work, education, transport and amenities.

Multi-generational developments offer an alternative concept to home-ownership. Families or friends pool resources, acquire a site, plan, design & build multiple dwellings at cost. By taking on the developer’s role, homeowners benefit from greater cost savings, better design outcomes & are able to live within their preferred suburbs.

Behind this contemporary townhouse frontage sits two more full sized, detached town homes, each with 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 2 separate living areas, double basement garages and private yards.

Unlike traditional multi-generational living, these families won’t be living under one roof. Separate detached dwellings provide privacy, communal areas allow for interaction, while all are close enough to the family community to benefit from shared support and companionship. Small scale community living is at the heart of multi-gen developments.

The Alvie townhomes sees the re-use of the suburban site triple its density, creating a model that will support multiple families, changing requirements over time and most importantly, preserve and nurture treasured family connections.