The Suburban Papakāinga concept is based on the desire to maximise the use of existing medium- to large-sized suburban sections in creating cost-effective multi-generational whānau living environments. Many original Māori Affairs suburban homes are still in whānau ownership and often have large back yards often capable of accommodating up to two additional connected dwellings located around communal open areas and outdoor dining spaces.  While this model is specifically aligned to Māori and Pacific whānau, these solutions are equally applicable to any group which values intergenerational living.

This project focuses on a typical 900m²suburban Auckland site (16m wide by 56m long) and retains the existing single-storey 3-bedroom house while adding additional one bedroom and two bedroom single storey dwellings to accommodate up to 12 members of an extended whānau.

This design solution maintains the height and scale of the existing front house (and neighbouring houses) while arranging additional dwellings around a communal grassed area and covered outdoor dining area. Care has been taken to keep vehicular access and parking spaces (x4) to the south and separate from outdoor play areas. North- and west-facing roofed patios allowed for sheltered circulation between the existing and new dwellings while all dining areas focus out to the large north-facing grassed courtyard.

While the emphasis is on encouraging communal dining and outdoor activity both major dwellings maintain sunny private outdoor withdrawal areas.

While the one bedroom unit would be appropriate for a grandparent or young couple it would equally be suitable for a sole parent who is able to receive strong whānau support while maintaining a level of independence.

Raised-bed gardens and fruit trees help to maximise the productive use of yard areas while maintaining focal, easily supervised open space/ tamariki play areas.

The provision of three-, two- and one-bedroom units in this design option allows for maximum flexibility in accommodating multiple generations and for changing occupancies over time.