CONCERNING HOUSING

Evening Post, Volume C, Issue 38, 13 August 1920, Page 9

CONCERNING HOUSING

A FEW INTERESTING POINTS.

For many obvious reasons, the minds of women are much exercised at present regarding the housing question. Not only is the supply terribly inadequate, but the possibilities of labour-saving with increased advantages in hygiene and convenience are many. Some interesting points were ascertained from an official of the Labour Department (Housing Branch), who gave courteous attention to many questions. The extent to which the Government is prepared to aid families is bounded byHhe sum of £775 for a wooden erection and £850 for a brick and concrete one. This may be added to b3 r the occupier at his or her own expense. It may be mentioned here that in the latest Budget it was announced that an addition is to be made to these before-mentioned figures, and in view of present prices prevailing the addition is a most necessary one. At Petone 63 sections of land have been secured ; at Karori 18; at Wadeatown 8, with'six buildings proceeding; at, Miramar 24, with a commitment of ten houses. Houses will be built in separate positions if occupiers find suitable ones with regard to price, etc. Within the city electric, light will ba installed, but gas. would be extra. The 'Miramar house plan is not considered satisfactory, and Mr Graham^ the architect, is preparing plans of up-to-date cottages, with due regard to labour-saving and to the house? wives' convenience. Cupboards, airspace, and good fittings are under proper consideration. A point that might be recommended to the architect and to the Department is the placing of houses with first regard to the possibilities of taking the utmost advantage of sunshine, and making a secondary consideration of the way the nearest road lies. There is surely no real reason why a house must face directly on to a street or road, if more sun in the principal rooms can be obtained, by placing it sideways, or any other* way. It is to be hoped that the new plans will be placed somewhere on inspection, so that possible house, purchasers may have a good opportunity of seeing them, and giving them thoughtful stndy: This will make for much more contentment and health in the future.