Folia: A collective living organism. Cr. Nader Burjawi
What is Folia?
Folia is a pioneering research project centred on addressing the housing needs of disadvantaged homeless youth, offering essential services to empower them for a brighter future. Our focus extends beyond shelter to encompass a holistic approach, combining housing with comprehensive educational and vocational programs. Through a thoughtful design, we aim to elevate the collective well-being of these young individuals and equip them with the skills needed to thrive in the years ahead.
Strategically implemented, Folia provides a unique collective living experience tailored to teenagers facing challenges in finding a stable home in the suburb of Richmond in Melbourne. By integrating shelter with educational and working initiatives, the project transforms into a living organism that fosters interaction and cultivates a familial sense of belonging. The synergy of our programs not only addresses immediate housing concerns but also lays the foundation for a supportive community environment, nurturing personal growth and resilience in the face of adversity. Folia is more than a physical space; it is a dynamic ecosystem designed to uplift and inspire the youth on their journey toward stability and fulfilment.
Site location: Richmond, Melbourne, Australia Cr. Ruby Lam, Nader Burjawi
Richmond physical appearance. Cr. Nader Burjawi
Richmond social aspect. Cr. Ruby Lam
Decoding Richmond: Physical + The Social Aspect
Richmond, situated in Melbourne, Australia, has emerged as a suburb with one of the highest rates of youth homelessness, ranking among the top three in Melbourne.
This discovery has prompted our team to delve deeper into research, initiating a thorough investigation to explore effective strategies for implementing a project that addresses and mitigates this pressing issue.
Folia as Richmond's main Homeless Hub
Our site is conveniently located among vital services and has excellent public transport options to those needing to travel.
Our building centralises itself as a 'hub' for those seeking assistance or guidance, who can be directed to nearby resources that may better offer help (or vice versa)
Urban connection: Main hub for homeless services. Cr. Nader Burjawi
Information collected from Boroondara youth hub about youth and homeless experiences. Cr. Ruby Lam, Nader Burjawi
Fundamental Research
We gleaned invaluable insights and first-hand knowledge of the daily experiences of the youth community through interviews with individuals closely involved in their well-being.
The information presented here is distilled from an interview we conducted with the Boroondara Youth Hub team, providing a nuanced and informed perspective on the challenges and aspirations of the youth in our community
Program/Layout: The Public + Private Realm
Project Program Complexity. Cr. Ruby Lam, Nader Burjawi
Strategic Planning
The floor layouts have been meticulously designed to incorporate all building services, including lifts and stairs, towards the southern facing facade.
This deliberate arrangement aims to ensure optimal protection for the living areas against the detrimental effects of noise pollution originating from the southern direction.
The floor is thoughtfully designed with a layout that fosters a central space, promoting interaction among residents and cultivating a familial atmosphere akin to a large, cohesive family sharing a collective living experience.
