Warle Construction, an Indigenous construction company based in the Northern Territory, is pioneering the development of IKEA-inspired houses aimed at tackling housing affordability and availability issues.
This initiative not only aims to provide cost-effective housing solutions but also creates local employment opportunities, particularly in remote and rural areas, AMGC said in a news release.
Warle Construction’s innovative approach involves utilising roll forming technology for light gauge steel in a manufacturing process akin to assembling IKEA kits.
By employing detailed drawings, a kit of parts, and clear labelling, Warle’s housing kits can be easily and efficiently assembled onsite, promising swift installation within days.
The project, supported by a $392,470 co-investment from the Northern Territory Advanced Manufacturing Ecosystem Fund (AMEF), administered by the Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre (AMGC), signifies a concerted effort to bolster manufacturing capabilities in the Northern Territory.
This partnership, part of a broader five-year, $8.75 million collaboration between the NT Government and AMGC, aims to foster economic growth and innovation within the region.
Lewis Knibbs, managing director of Warle Construction and Annge Consulting, expressed confidence in the project’s potential to revolutionise modular construction.
He emphasised scalability, cost-effectiveness, and adaptability to different environments and client requirements as key advantages of their approach.
The 12-month project, structured into three phases, encompasses research and development on Warle’s manufacturing system, community engagement, establishment of a local manufacturing and training facility, and construction and implementation of the facility.
It is anticipated to generate approximately 20 jobs and $16.4 million in revenue within five years.
Eva Lawler, chief minister of the Northern Territory, underscored the government’s commitment to supporting local businesses and fostering economic growth.
Selena Uibo, Northern Territory minister for Remote Housing and Homelands, highlighted the project’s role in addressing housing availability and affordability in rural and remote areas, emphasising the importance of innovative, locally-driven solutions.
“Designed for the Territory by Territorians, these housing shells offer an innovative and competitive advantage over traditional methods, ensuring more Territorians have a place to call home,” Uibo explained.
Tilman Lowe, director of Warle Construction, outlined the company’s mission to provide sustainable and cost-effective housing solutions tailored to the unique needs of remote communities.
“Through co-investment from the Northern Territory Government, the assistance of AMGC and the support of our project partners, we will be able to commercialise a more practical and affordable home that can be quickly constructed and deployed to improve living standards while also generating jobs and new capabilities for the Top End,” Lowe explained.
Meanwhile, Charmaine Phillips, AMGC’s Northern Territory director, commended Warle’s project as a testament to local ingenuity and collaboration.
She emphasised the significance of innovative manufacturing in delivering affordable, high-quality housing and driving economic growth.
