FLATS DESIGNED FOR SUN, PRIVACY AND GARDEN SPACE

Press, Volume XCVII, Issue 28529, 7 March 1958, Page 16

FLATS DESIGNED FOR SUN, PRIVACY AND GARDEN SPACE

sprawl, and have proposed several solutions. Those which appear particularly suitable for New Zealand conditions have been approved by the Minister to be built on an experimental basis in the first instance.

The desirability of providing some land for each flat has been kept in mind in this design. Though this appears to be contrary to the principle of higher density development, the architects have produced a plan which in its essence—though not in detail—incorporates a feature which is age-old.

It can already be found in the buildings of ancient Rome, where it was called the atrium—the enclosed court of the house. There are, of course, considerable differences between the palatial homes of Roman times and th

le relatively small State rental inits, though the principle renains the same. The idea consists »f grouping four flats so that in enclosed court for each dwelling is formed in the centre of the section.

The main rooms of each house face its respective court which is entirely separated by walls and

trellis from its neighbours and contains also the normal toolshed and storage-' space. The treatment of these atriums leaves ample scope for the expression of individual tastes. Some of these possibilities are shown in the plan. By arranging their design within a square the housing architects have achieved a solution which allows the flat to be sited with any of the four sides of the square facing the road so as to get maximum sunshine in those rooms where it is most needed.

The depth of section required is not greater than for other State houses, leaving sufficient space at the rear for a drying area screened by trellis and parking space for four cars.

The flats will contain two double and one single bedroom, a living room with well defined dining space which can also be used as indoor play area for children. In the kitchen, space is provided for a refrigerator. Bathroom, separate lavatory, and laundry complete the plan.

Mr Fox has instructed that tenders be called for prototypes of these flats as soon as working drawings are completed.