Creating Inclusive Communities: The Dunkirk Housing Development
Creating Inclusive Communities: The Dunkirk Housing Development
In the world of Universally Designed housing, success hinges on effective communication, proactive consultation and a commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes. Tamaki Regeneration’s Dunkirk neighbourhood in Panmure, developed in partnership with Nuline Homes, is the perfect example of this, with the resulting homes being attractive, whānau-friendly and Lifemark-rated.
The journey of the Dunkirk housing development began with Lifemark Design Partner SGA Architecture, whose early engagement with Lifemark set the stage for the project. Nuline Homes later took over and although they had never worked with Lifemark before, they embraced Universal Design wholeheartedly. This enthusiasm, coupled with proactive communication and collaboration, helped shape the development into what it is today.
A Vision of Inclusivity and Community
Aligned with Tāmaki Regeneration’s overarching vision to “create a thriving Tāmaki where no one is left behind”, the Dunkirk neighbourhood embodies inclusivity and focuses on catering to diverse whānau of all sizes and stages.
The development comprises 18 residences at 3-9 Dunkirk Road. Nine of these homes will be designated as public housing, while the other nine will be available for purchase by Tāmaki families through the OWN IT homeownership program. Notably, the neighbourhood boasts homes adhering to the Lifemark 3- or 4-star standards – ensuring the design can be easily adapted to suit individuals at various ages, stages and with increased mobility needs.
Outside, shared laneways are adorned with fruit trees and seating, fostering connections between residents and creating a sense of community. The development leverages Lifemark’s design standards to ensure the design is as inclusive and functional as it is beautiful.
A Testament to Collaboration
At the heart of the project’s success is the dedication and cooperation of those involved. Tamaki Regeneration Asset Manager Tracy Massam was a major advocate for Lifemark’s work, having witnessed first-hand the problems that can arise when designs don’t account for the needs of those who will be living in the homes.
She quickly realised that the cost of having to relocate people where their homes aren’t fit for purpose far outweighs that of utilising Universal Design principles from the get-go, and promoted the introduction of a Lifemark rating into Tamaki Regeneration’s property portfolio.
This openness and communication came not only from Tamaki Regeneration but from Nuline Homes as well.
“I’ve worked with a variety of builders over the years, and most will turn to their own designers and architects to guide them on Universal Design,” says Tracy. “Nuline Homes was the first to go directly to Lifemark for guidance. They understood what they didn’t know and went out of their way to seek Lifemark’s expertise. It was great to see.”
“The Nuline Homes team asked questions and sought approval throughout the project build, and this went a long way towards achieving the right outcome,” says Lifemark Certifier Sarah Daley. “These Lifemark-rated homes are whānau friendly, and it’s a really nice-looking development.”
For Nuline Homes, the experience was just as positive.
“We are very proud to deliver and work with Tamaki Regeneration and the Lifemark team on the development for 3-9 Dunkirk Road in Panmure,” says Nuline Homes Operations Manager Thiago Flessak. “Lifemark’s early involvement from the design stages was crucial in order to ensure we were on the right track to achieve the final certification and deliver these houses to the community.”
The Dunkirk neighbourhood stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, inclusivity and proactive engagement. The resulting development is not just a collection of homes, but a thriving community where diversity takes centre stage.
