Could You Live In 10Sqm?

Sydney-based Nettleton Tribe has submitted a development application for a new mixed-use project at the City Road entrance to Sydney University's Camperdown Campus, according to Architecture and Design, which paves the way for affordable student housing by proposing a model of student accommodation in a room measuring just 10-11sqm in space.

The Regiment Mixed-Use Redevelopment Project includes the addition of a new eight-storey student accommodation and educational facility, to be integrated with a number of heritage items currently occupying and bordering the site.

The proposal is designed to provide options for affordable student housing complemented by a large public common room for relaxation and socialising.

All rooms will feature 2.1m-high glazed windows to provide ample light and ventilation, and will have a king-single bed, ceiling fan, study table, bar fridge, storage, and book shelving.

Source: Architecture and DesignNettleton Tribe’s proposal is based around a commitment from the university to provide affordable accommodation options for its students on campus, and to enhance the quality of campus facilities by integrating student housing with the various education facilities.
Sydney University's Housing Model Study
This study provided an analysis of the benefits of the University of Sydney’s (the University) proposed new model of on campus student housing consisting of 10-11m2 room sizes supported by a significant provision of onsite communal amenity and educational facilities. Comparable international precedents indicate that this approach offers a high quality of university experience for students and assists with their attraction and retention. The City of Sydney’s Housing Issues Paper found there is a significant undersupply of affordable housing in the City of Sydney.

This shortage is compounded by an undersupply of nearly 75,000 student accommodation beds across Sydney including a shortfall of 7,000 beds (by 2021) immediately adjacent to the University . The shortage of quality student accommodation is recognised as increasing issues around student welfare, is believed to be a barrier to Australian universities to further develop the international student market, and forces students to compete with low to moderate-income households for the limited affordable accommodation on offer leading to increases in rents and limiting supply. The undersupply has also created a proliferation of illegal dwellings offering cheap but unsafe premises and restricted the ability of low-income students to reside close to campus.