Building Community Through Sustainable Design: North Wright Sustainable Precinct 

The North Wright Sustainable Precinct is an innovative project in Canberra that demonstrates how sustainable design and community engagement can shape future housing models. Comprising of 43 architect-designed, all-electric homes, the precinct aims to achieve net-zero carbon outcomes while fostering a connected, resilient community. 

Stakeholder Engagement Process

Engagement was central to shaping North Wright’s design and delivery. SLA convened a Stakeholder Advisory Group comprising community representatives, industry experts, and government agencies. The process included: 

• Workshops and Co-Design Sessions: Participants explored placemaking strategies, identified enablers and barriers, and contributed to design decisions that prioritise liveability and sustainability. 

• Cultural Consultation: The project acknowledged and integrated Ngunnawal perspectives, ensuring respect for Country and cultural heritage throughout planning and landscaping. 

• Feedback Loops: Public exhibitions and digital platforms allowed ongoing engagement, reinforcing transparency and shared ownership of outcomes. 

This collaborative approach ensured the precinct reflects community aspirations for affordability, energy efficiency, and social connection. 

Place Vision 

The vision was to create a precinct that balances environmental responsibility with liveability. The guiding principles—Climate-wise living, small footprint housing, and the missing middle—reflect a commitment to sustainability and inclusivity. Homes are designed to achieve a minimum of 7 Star NatHERS rating through passive solar design, renewable energy integration, and best-practice building methods. Compact, flexible floorplans maximise functionality while preserving green spaces for gardens and communal areas, reinforcing the precinct’s connection to nature and community. 

Project Vision

The project sought to address Canberra’s housing diversity gap by introducing “missing middle” housing, medium-density homes that bridge the gap between detached houses and apartments. Each home is separately titled, eliminating body corporate fees and enabling residents to personalise their spaces. The design emphasises adaptability, affordability, and sustainability, incorporating circular economy principles through renewable, recycled, and reusable materials such as green concrete and recycled bricks. This approach ensures long-term environmental and economic benefits for residents. 

Design Outcomes 

• Nature Play Park and Picnic Areas: Spaces that encourage outdoor activity and community interaction to maximise opportunities for connection to each other and country. Giving materials a new life that would otherwise end up as waste. 
• Climate-Resilient and Restorative Landscaping: Native shade trees and green corridors provide cooling and biodiversity. Over 250 additional trees planted across the precinct, revitalising and nourishing the landscape for the local community.  
• Flexible Floorplans: Homes with multifunctional spaces, such as carports that double as pergolas, and room-to-grow designs that cater to evolving family needs.