Mason Street is the first example of Eco Outdoor's social housing contribution model in action, showing how businesses within the built environment can influence how social housing is specified, maintained and experienced by residents. The 51-residence project by Housing Choices Australia prioritises resident wellbeing, long-term liveability and connection to the local community. Eco Outdoor's Arda full cotto bricks feature prominently across the external façade, bringing a tactile, enduring material quality to the development, and instilling pride for the residents who call it home.
Designing for quality, dignity and place has become a broader ambition for Housing Choices Australia and for us at Eco Outdoor. “Social housing is not simply about providing a roof over someone's head. It is about creating high-quality homes that give people security and a strong foundation for living well. Good housing changes lives and investing in architecture and finishings demonstrates respect for the residents who will call it home," said Timothy Price, Development Manager at HCA.
Price sees that same principle at work in the materials themselves. "Materiality has a direct psychological impact on how a space feels. Tactile, natural materials like Cotto bricks bring textural warmth, character, and organic grounding to a building, avoiding the cold or institutional feel historically associated with social housing. When residents walk up to a building that looks and feels premium, it fosters a sense of pride, ownership, and belonging," continues Price.
"Social housing is not simply about providing a roof over someone’s head. It is about creating high-quality homes that give people security, dignity and a strong foundation for living well."
- Timothy Price, HCA
Equally important is for projects to feel anchored in their environment. Architects Freadman White saw the brickwork as a way to connect the building to its regional Victorian setting. It helped create a counterpoint to some of the more lightweight commercial buildings nearby, while reflecting the masonry character often found in towns across the region.
The design conversation is also shifting towards a greater focus on resident connection to community. This shift reinforces the importance of shared spaces and beautiful high-quality materials that shape them. Shared outdoor amenities like communal gardens help create a stronger sense of connection and home.
"Materiality has a direct psychological impact on how a space feels. Tactile, natural materials like Cotto bring textural warmth, avoiding the institutional feel historically associated with social housing."
- Timothy Price, HCA
