Gentle Densities: A report on the potential of sustainable gentle density, mixed use, mixed tenure and public participation in future housing in Belfast

The Gentle Densities report aims to investigate the potential of delivering mixed use and mixed tenure housing in
Belfast through mid density interventions.
In this report we explore the unsustainable nature of private high rise/high
density proposals and public low rise current and future sprawl. We therefore
propose an alternative model of mid density that could be
more environmentally and socially sustainable by reducing travel distances
and concentrating services close to housing areas through mixed use.
Firstly, this short report defines the concepts of gentle density, mixed use, mixed tenure and public participation
that can inform local housing policy. Secondly, it investigates a series of international models of gentle density
housing that includes mixed tenure and mixed use, designed and delivered with some level of participatory
processes. We explore precedents in the form of three European urban plot and block models and 14 case
studies of current mixed use and mixed tenure housing with gentle density. These examples are models of the
potential density that could be reached in Belfast City centre and inner city, while maintaining a socio-economic
mix and fostering an inclusive and accessible urban development. Finally, the report proposes a series of public
land locations in which these models could be developed in Belfast.
This project is funded by the Department for Communities Housing and Regeneration divisions and by the
Queen’s Engaged Research seed fund. This report was conducted by Dr Agustina Martire, principal investigator
and Anna Skoura, research assistant. It was developed with the collaboration of KOTO design and students of
the StreetSpace studio in the Masters in Architecture (MArch) at Queen’s University Belfast. The StreetSpace
studio works in collaboration with Participation and the Practice of Rights (PPR) and other local non government
organisations who advocate for inclusive and just urban development.
This report is meant to start a conversation about density in Northern Ireland. To properly test these models in
Northern Irish cities, significant partnerships and funding must follow up as a pathway for a sustainable future of
housing in NI.