710-714 Des Chalmers Drive, Cairns

We are thrilled to be the architects behind the masterplan for 710-714 Des Chalmers Drive in Cairns, a Queensland social and affordable housing project.

Currently, in progress, the design prioritises accessibility and community for seniors and individuals with disabilities. and emphasises a ‘green-centric design’ with extensive landscaped communal areas to enhance the quality of life.

‘The complex will include 245 social, 223 affordable, and 22 specialist disability apartments. The purpose-built, architecturally-designed precinct features modern, low maintenance, and energy efficient one and two-bedroom homes for people over 55 and those with disability, and is set among landscaped gardens and picnic grounds.’ 

Social opportunities vary from private spaces to larger communal areas, fostering community through events and activities. Buildings are strategically sited amid parks and gardens to encourage interaction and offer visual oversight, aligning with CPTED principles for safer environments.

Traffic is minimised with cul-de-sac layouts to ensure a peaceful, engaging outdoor setting and foster neighbourliness. On a sizable 5.36ha site, this project offers 490 social and affordable homes for seniors, marking the region’s largest development of this type, backed by Queensland Government’s Housing Investment Fund.

nettletontribe has worked on some of the most iconic residential projects, and social and affordable housing projects including Brisbane Common Ground, we are incredibly proud to be working on such development to improve the lives of Queenslanders.