As we grapple with the dual pressures of a housing crisis and an ageing population, Hassell principal Ben Rees and residential sector co-leader Jeremy Schluter explore the emergence of a unique architectural hybrid: the medical-residential complex. 

It’s not just a trend; it’s a potential paradigm shift, a lifeboat in the challenging landscape of modern urban living.

We’ve long compartmentalised our lives. Homes were for living, hospitals for healing and parks for leisure. But what if those lines blurred? What if we could seamlessly integrate wellness into our daily existence? This isn’t just about convenience; it’s about fundamentally rethinking how we design for longevity.

The big idea 

The idea is simple: combine medical and wellness facilities with new urban homes. Think of it as the 15-minute city but turbocharged. Instead of just cafes and parks within walking distance, imagine your doctor’s office, physical therapy and even specialised aged care, all accessible within a short stroll or elevator ride.

Why does this work? It taps into a fundamental human need: the desire for community and security. As our population ages, downsizing — or what we prefer to call right-sizing — becomes a necessity, but it often comes with a sense of isolation. 

Resi-medi in action at Murdoch Square

By integrating medical facilities, like the recently completed Murdoch Square, a healthcare precinct designed by Hassell on Whadjuk Country, Perth, we can create a built-in support system. 

Murdoch Square, Whadjuk Country, Perth

Murdoch Square delivers an overlapping mix of private apartments, aged care, a medi-hotel, retail and hospitality offerings alongside a hospital and health and wellness facilities as an extension of the existing Fiona Stanley Hospital. By introducing a vibrant public plaza with mature trees and native plantings at its heart, we’ve provided a place for people to meet, connect, or find respite away from the demands of work.

Think of it as a subtle nudge. The proximity of health facilities to homes encourages more physical activity. A walk to the doctor becomes less of a chore and more of a routine. 

The presence of public spaces and cafes within these developments fosters social interaction, combating the loneliness that can often plague older adults. 

Since Murdoch Square opened in late 2024, it’s been incredibly rewarding to see the spaces become occupied and truly spring to life. Now that the entire precinct is almost fully leased, the results are clear: resi-medi neighbourhoods not only make financial sense for de-risking larger developments, but they also create excellent environments for people during vulnerable times of aging or health crises.

Spending time in the plaza reveals its significant therapeutic benefits. We consistently observe individuals in wheelchairs (both independent and with carers), people engaged in one-on-one counselling sessions outdoors, and groups of aged care residents enjoying their daily walks with staff. It’s also common to see people in dressing gowns and slippers, highlighting the comfortable and accessible nature of the space. 

Drawing from our learnings designing Fiona Stanley Hospital, we recognise the crucial therapeutic importance of access to outdoor and green spaces, which has proven positive impacts on recovery times. This is clearly evident in the way Murdoch Square provides a quiet, sheltered outdoor haven, protected from wind, noise and harsh sun, fostering connection for all who use it.

A resi-medi framework

Murdoch Square illustrates the power of considered design, but translating the success of this emerging mix of health and residential projects requires a clear framework. These are just some of the principles that guide our approach:

1. Seamless integration

Medical facilities shouldn’t feel institutional. They should blend seamlessly with the residential environment, using warm materials, natural light and biophilic design to create a calming and inviting atmosphere.

2. Accessibility and universal design

Every aspect of the development must be accessible to people of all ages and abilities. This means wide corridors, level thresholds and adaptable living spaces.

3. Community hubs

Public spaces are crucial and should cater to the diverse needs of the community. They need to be designed to encourage social interaction, with comfortable seating, shaded areas and opportunities for recreation. 

4. Flexible spaces

Medical and wellness facilities should be designed to accommodate a range of services and activities. This means flexible layouts, modular furniture and adaptable technology.

5. Biophilic design

Incorporate natural elements such as plants, water features and natural light to create a calming and restorative environment. Research shows that biophilic design can reduce stress, improve mood, and promote healing.

6. Multi-generational places

Mix generations, build community. Aged care, childcare and key workers: all housed together. We know that combining childcare with aged care has benefits for both generations, but what about providing National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) housing or affordable housing for nurses?

Murdoch Square, Whadjuk Country, Perth

This isn’t just about building houses; it’s about building communities. It’s about creating environments that support our physical and mental wellbeing, and people who are the most vulnerable in our communities. 

The idea of resi-medi neighbourhoods recognises that the future of housing is not solely concerned with shelter. Creating a holistic ecosystem can allow us to age gracefully and with dignity.

Lead image of Murdoch Square, Whadjuk Country, Perth. All photography by Peter Bennetts.

Related: Read our Q&A with Hassell principal Kevin Lloyd following the firm’s win at IDEA 2024 in the Institutional category here.