Future perfect James Hardie-led inner-city housing initiative

With affordable housing now as rare as hen's teeth, councils have had to find fresh ways of approaching inner-city living. One positive result has been a drive for more modestly priced homes that still deliver a strong design aesthetic.

In response, James Hardie New Zealand has led group home builder Latitude Homes and design company Creative Arch to create the first Smarter Small Home in New Zealand, says James Hardie marketing manager Merv Giam.

The home is the outcome of a James Hardie competition calling for architects and designers to create an efficient, easily built home that meets stringent guidelines on everything from energy efficiency to financial viability. And it's one that has the approval of Auckland Mayor Len Brown he officiated at the May opening.

The three-bedroom, 138m² Smarter Small Home sits on footprint of just 70m² and can be replicated, for example, in a row of eight units.

Mark McLeay, architectural designer and director at Creative Arch, says the design of the house had to be simple, to keep the cost down.

"Building time is reduced because the home is designed around standard sizings, but that doesn't mean you get a house out of a box," says McLeay. "This is something new the Smarter Small Home really does have a wow factor."

Floor-to-ceiling windows and a double-height stairway void are just two features.

"A variety of James Hardie products is used in this exciting yet affordable home," says Giam.

"Jennian Homes is currently building another Smarter Small Home design in Ellerslie, Auckland, due to be completed in August. This will add another dimension to the range."

For more details on James Hardie building products and the Smarter Small Home,visit the website: www.jameshardie.co.nz

Story by: Trendsideas