Too Many Similar Homes Worsen Perth’s Housing Crisis

Perth is awash with a certain type of home – and it’s making our housing crisis worse. The prevalent four-bedroom, two-bathroom houses, known colloquially as ‘four by twos’, are shaping the housing landscape in Western Australia. With the highest percentage of such homes in the country, the trend raises concerns about suitability, financial strain, and environmental impact. Critics argue for a shift towards more diverse and sustainable housing options to improve quality of life and community well-being.

Key takeaways

• Perth has the highest percentage of ‘four by two’ homes in Australia.
• These homes may not suit everyone’s needs and can lead to financial burden.
• Alternative housing, like Jimmy’s House, demonstrates successful smaller-scale living.
• The ‘four by two’ trend is negatively affecting Perth’s housing ecology and environment.
• There is a need for more examples of medium and high-density living in Perth.

The ‘four by two’ housing trend in Perth is contributing to a housing crisis by limiting diversity and affordability, while also impacting the environment and community structure.

Financial and Environmental Costs of ‘Four by Twos’

As the dream of spacious homes persists, individuals are taking on substantial mortgages for properties that exceed their needs. This trend towards larger homes is not only placing undue financial pressure on homeowners but also eroding the housing ecology. The lack of diverse housing options leads to a stock that is ‘bloated and lazy’, with many rooms in these houses often underutilized.

The Need for Housing Diversity in Perth

While there is recognition of the need for alternative housing solutions, Perth has yet to see a significant shift towards medium and high-density living. The consequence is a loss of green spaces, increased urban heat, and diminished biodiversity. Experts argue for a pivot in housing discussions towards smaller mortgages and better quality of life, rather than the pursuit of future profits.

Perth is awash with a certain type of home – and it’s making our housing crisis worse. The prevalence of ‘four by two’ homes is not only a financial challenge for many residents but also a detriment to the environment and community diversity. A reevaluation of housing priorities is necessary to ensure that the future of Perth’s housing market is both sustainable and inclusive, offering a variety of options that cater to different needs and lifestyles.