K2LD Architects
When HousingFirst agreed to let Bridge It pilot the Cocoon in a vacant mansion in St Kilda, only 7 of the 19 apartments were renovated. Numerous businesses came to the rescue to transform the vacant apartments into safe and beautiful homes for young people. A key partner on this project was K2LD Architects. K2LD played a pivotal role in the development, their years of knowledge, creativity and problem solving proving to be essential. They attended a weekly projects meeting for many months showing their commitment and care to the project and treating it like any other paid project which was grateful appreciated by Bridge It.
“We had contributed financially to social projects before and fundraising, but we wanted to use our expertise and put it into practice. We would absolutely like to work on more projects like this. It’s a commitment we’ve made.” David Ha(add title)
We can’t end homelessness until government, business and charities come together. This has been demonstrated over the course of the last few decades and has led to a dramatically worsening homelessness crisis in Australia.
“Collaborating with partners like K2LD has been such a joy — it’s through combining our unique skills that we can create these beautiful, supportive homes for young people.”
Carla Raynes, CEO
K2LD’s role was undeniably important, working closely with others to create what has become a life-changing home for many. “Our role within the project was mainly within the interiors. It was holistic and about setting original concepts. We also collaborated and brought in other experts, such as the landscaper and project managers.” Michael Erwin (add title.)
“We had to be open to things. On our first site visit, we encountered paint falling off walls, and mould. We had to work out what we could save and where we could save money. There have been constraints and we’ve had to adapt. We had to be dynamic and fit within budget, especially with the building works.”
While K2LD is looking to utilise their creative skill set to help others, it’s a particular group of the community that they are drawn to supporting. “Women and children at risk. It’s our focus within our team and is driven by the Melbourne directors
As the residents of The Cocoon have settled into their new home, they are finally in a place where they can heal and develop new skills for their lives moving forward. All of this has been made possible because of businesses like K2LD, an effort that comes with deep gratitude from the Bridge It team.