This project is located in Blackrock, a mature residential suburb to the south east of Cork City Centre. It entails the provision of a sheltered housing scheme for elderly people.
Housing where all accommodation is at entrance level and thus easily accessible is the most suitable type for many elderly occupants, whose mobility may be impaired to varying degrees. This idea becomes a generator for the design scheme.
All of the units within the development are accessed off a communal courtyard/garden. This shared space has a single entrance for both pedestrians and vehicles, in order to promote a feeling of security and sense of community. A low building height along the western boundary means that the courtyard receives as much afternoon sun as possible. This, combined with seating at dwelling entrances and first floor balconies contribute to the character and distinctiveness of the scheme, whilst simultaneously encouraging opportunities for social interaction.