Council calls for livable medium-density housing
A recent study by Auckland Council revealed that some newly built terraces and duplexes in the city are overheating, making them uncomfortable for residents.
Lisa Dunshea, Auckland Council’s urban design manager, stressed the importance of liveable medium-density housing (MDH).
Dunshea noted that poor window placement, minimal shade, and a lack of natural ventilation are major contributors to the problem, RNZ reported.
“Some of the issues we heard are around windows not having wide openings,” Dunshea said.
Large, poorly oriented windows were also identified as a heat trap, attracting excessive warmth during the summer.
Residents report cooling challenges
The council’s survey of 1,337 MDH residents focused on homes built between 2016 and 2023.
While most apartment dwellers were satisfied with their home temperatures, residents in upper levels of terraces and duplexes frequently complained about overheating.
Many reported resorting to costly measures like installing fans and air conditioning to cool their homes, while others kept curtains closed and windows open to combat the heat.
Design changes and natural solutions suggested
Dunshea highlighted that there are better ways to design MDH to prevent overheating, emphasising the role of natural cooling solutions.
“The natural environment is a big one,” she said, pointing to the cooling effects of trees and other landscaping elements.
She also recommended incorporating architectural features like louvres and eaves to provide shade and reduce direct sunlight exposure on windows.
“Having window placements set back a little bit enables shade to be cast across the glass when the sun’s the most intense,” Dunshea told RNZ.
Rapid growth of MDH requires better design
Since 2016, there has been a significant increase in MDH developments, which accounted for two-thirds of all consented homes last year.
Dunshea stressed the importance of creating functional and affordable housing in Auckland’s competitive property market.
“It’s a part of Auckland’s growth, we’re definitely going to see more of it,” she said.
The council’s findings provide valuable insights for developers and architects to improve the design and livability of future MDH projects.
“It’s about us working with others to get the best quality and functionality,” Dunshea told RNZ, advocating for collaborative efforts to ensure better housing standards in the city.
Get the hottest and freshest mortgage news delivered right into your inbox. Subscribe now to our FREE daily newsletter.
