A specialist disability housing project in High Wycombe has taken out a top national award for its commitment to providing inclusive homes for Western Australians living with disability.
Hawkesvale Vista, a development of eight Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) houses for 24 residents, today won the ‘Leading Housing Development Project’ Award in the ahi Brighter Future Awards, which reward housing professionals who make a significant and lasting difference in the social housing landscape.
The Leading Housing Development Project Award recognises a residential development that offers an exemplary model to the sector for its outstanding quality, innovation and originality.
Hawkesvale Vista is a collaboration between property developer WAI Group, Architect/builder Fortitude Living and G Living, and disability services providers Activ Foundation and Community Housing Limited.
With sophisticated automation, expansive landscape and outdoor areas, flexibility and a welcoming environment for participants who have previously lived in older, large group housing, the properties are accessible and offer improved functionality for people with high support needs.
WAI Group Director Paul Stanley said the award was recognition of the exceptional collaboration of the team, in particular the expertise of architect-builder Gianpaolo Crugnale in meeting the individual needs of residents.
“We are absolutely thrilled to receive this respected award, which gives due recognition to our combined commitment to bespoke housing in the SDA and affordable living spaces,” Mr Stanley said.
Mr Crugnale said Hawkesvale Vista epitomised prudent and quality SDA design, with its ability to meet the varying needs of residents while ensuring compliance with design principles that exceeded National Disability Insurance Scheme requirements.
“We are grateful to be recognised among the top disability housing providers in Australia,” Mr Crugnale said.
“This award notes our dedication to the sector, our embedded understanding of SDA housing, and how these developments can have real and lasting benefits for residents.”
The purpose-built SDA homes at Hawkesvale Vista have been designed with accessibility in mind, incorporating large corridors, bespoke finishes, and open living spaces, as well as a step-free design for wheelchair users.
Community Housing Limited WA State Manager Sean Kelly said Hawkesvale Vista had provided much-needed access to customised supported homes, enabling residents to thrive.
“Many people living with disabilities are forced to reside in properties that are outdated and not fit for purpose,” Mr Kelly said.
“Hawkesvale Vista has ensured people with high support needs have a tailored, modern place to call home, which allows them to live with dignity and greater independence.”
Activ Chief Executive Officer Michael Heath said the Hawkesvale Vista development had helped residents to feel happier and more empowered in the community.
“The vibe of move in day was electric and life for our Hawkesvale Vista residents only gets better and better as they form strong relationships and connect with the wider community through the modern living arrangements that engage and empower.
“It is developments like Hawkesvale Vista that are setting the scene for modern disability accommodation and Activ is proud to be at the forefront of this much-need shift alongside our partners.”
“We are incredibly proud of this ongoing collaboration and the important role we play in enabling customers to have choice and control over where they live and who they live with,” Mr Heath said.
WAI Group has been providing Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) housing in the NDIS space since 2017, working exclusively with Tier 1 SDA and Supported Independent Living (SIL) providers, people with disabilities, and their families.