A Rental Home for Life

This thesis proposes a Universal Housing model that would open social housing to everyone in need of a home, regardless of their income. It would address the income gap between qualifying for state housing or subsidised accommodation and being able to afford home-ownership. The current housing situation not only dismisses the needs of the poor and the vulnerable but also overlooks the possible needs of much of the population (Howden-Chapman, 2015). Rent would be calculated as no more than 30 percent of the gross household income to ensure nobody pays more than they could afford (Greater Auckland). This would enable a mix of low to middle income residents to co-exist within a development, contributing to the establishment of a diverse and inclusive community.

With little regulation of the private rental market in New Zealand, there is an opportunity to explore how other developed countries such as Germany offer long-term tenure security, rent regulation and similar housing standards for both rentals and privately-owned homes (Howden-Chapman, 2015). Tenure insecurity can result in homelessness, frequent shifting, or the use of improvised dwellings. Tenure security provided by a universal social housing model would benefit long term renters with the independence and stability required to provide a basis for community engagement (Stats NZ, 2009). This transition from building houses for private ownership to a universally accessible social housing approach could be a catalyst for enhancing the mana and well-being of communities everywhere (How we live).

Providing a mix of housing typologies in a mixed-use development will contribute to the stability, diversity and inclusion of a community. Urban and spatial design strategies are considered in response to facilitating social interaction between residents and the wider community. They demonstrate how the planning of private, common and public space can promote a thriving community.