Woods Bagot Creates Housing for Vulnerable Women in Adelaide’s CBD

12:37 am UTC March 28, 2025 Mar 28, 2025 | by: Woods Bagot | Architecture

(Photo by: Woods Bagot)

Work has begun on 50 new apartments in Adelaide’s city center, which will provide vital housing services for older women at risk of homelessness.

A six-story building under construction on Tucker Street, Adelaide, will deliver crucial housing for older women in need.

The project will include 50 apartments, five of which are designed to meet universal accessibility standards for residents with mobility challenges. Woods Bagot has led both architecture and interior design, creating a dynamic ground floor, shared communal areas, and an inviting courtyard for residents to enjoy.

Woods Bagot Principal Alex Hall highlights the essential role public housing plays in addressing the housing affordability crisis in Australian cities. He notes that well-designed public housing fosters social inclusion and helps create vibrant, accessible neighborhoods.

“The community aspect of Tucker Street is emphasized through the spaces designed to encourage interaction and community building,” says Hall.

Affordability was a key design consideration, and compact, durable design principles ensured the building’s long-term functionality. The structure is low-maintenance, using modular construction techniques to enhance efficiency and allow for easy future modifications.

“Through modular joinery and simple detailing, the structural design allows studio apartments to be adapted into larger configurations to address changing community needs over time,” adds Hall. Sustainability is at the core of the design, with carefully selected materials and an emphasis on connecting residents to outdoor spaces. The layout maximizes natural light, airflow, and views, creating a comfortable and homey environment.

This development is part of the South Australian Government’s “A Better Housing Future” initiative, which aims to build approximately 3,600 homes over the next five years. Once completed, the apartments will be managed by the SA Housing Trust, which will provide onsite support through a community wellbeing manager and dedicated spaces for connecting residents with local services.

Construction began in October 2024. The building’s structure is expected to be completed by mid-2025, and the final completion is scheduled for 2026.

The Tucker Street project combines sustainable design, modular construction, and community engagement, creating a vibrant and supportive environment for vulnerable women. “Our aim is to provide a reliable sanctuary that communicates resilience and offers residents a stable home address,” Hall concludes.