Supported Disability Accommodation (SDA)
Commercial Project Design Overview
Supported Disability Accommodation (SDA) offers a range of housing solutions specifically designed to meet the unique needs of individuals with disabilities. These spaces often integrate specialised services to promote independent living in environments that align with personal support requirements.
In Queensland, compliance with the National Construction Code of Australia (NCC), including the Disability (Access to Premises - Buildings) Standards 2010, is integral to ensuring accessibility and functionality in SDA projects.
Our Toowoomba client, Civic Group, emphasised the importance of maintaining aesthetic cohesion across the whole of their site while meeting stringent design and construction standards for disability accommodation. To achieve this, MTID collaborated closely with Anton Dovey Architects and Newlands Projects, leveraging their expertise in adaptive design and construction to deliver not just a compliant product, but a beautiful best practice product. The property’s Style Guide, developed by MTID, served as a foundation for consistency while incorporating the essential features required for accessibility.
Key to the design was the selection of fit-for-purpose finishes that adhere to the NCC Accessibility Standards while adding warmth and personality. MTID’s approach involved thoughtful layering of tactile textures and complementary colour palettes to achieve movement and visual interest without compromising functionality. Non-slip surfaces, contrast edging for visibility, and seamless thresholds for wheelchair access were integrated to align with disability standards while promoting a homely and inviting aesthetic.
MTID also focused on infusing Modern Australian Country Elegance (M.A.C.E) elements into the interior and exterior design. The M.A.C.E aesthetic, characterised by contemporary lines, earthy tones, and subtle nods to rural charm, ensures the accommodation appeals to a diverse demographic, ages 18-60. This was achieved through careful material selection, such as timber-look vinyl flooring for durability and warmth, tactile wall finishes for visual and sensory engagement, and accessible fixtures that blend seamlessly with the overall design.
The primary design challenge was to create a space that adhered to both the Queensland Development Code MP 4.1 for accessibility and our shared vision of non-institutional, age-inclusive housing. Working collaboratively with the architect the design team incorporated universal design principles and ensured all elements—such as circulation spaces, kitchen layouts, and bathroom configurations—were functional and compliant with disability access standards. At the same time, avoiding a clinical appearance, offering a sense of familiarity and comfort that resonates with residents.
Through this project, MTID challenged the long-held misconception that people with disabilities must settle for purely functional spaces that lack beauty or warmth. By exceeding compliance requirements and embracing a refined, homely, and welcoming style, this project proves that specialist disability accommodation can and should reflect the dignity, aspirations, and individuality of its residents. This approach not only fulfilled Civic Group's goals but also redefined traditional design thinking, demonstrating that thoughtful finishes and inviting aesthetics are as essential as functionality in creating truly inclusive homes.
Communal areas
First floor - Onsite Manager Apartment
Ground floor apartments
First floor apartments
Second floor apartments
JustSDA Management have been appointed to provide management support on behalf of Civic Group Australia. Below, managing director Justin Macdonald discusses this project and why it is a standout in within the industry, and exceeds best practice benchmarks in disability accommodation.
Status: Completed February 2025
Location: Toowoomba
Photographer: John Downs Photography,
Videographer: Adrian Dyer Videography
Client: Civic Group Australia
Builder: Newlands Projects
Architect: Anton Dovey Architects
Tiles: Toowoomba Tiles
Flooring: Tarkett
Team site visit SDA Project, Toowoomba 2024.