Who Can Afford to Live Here? Housing Models in Crisis

Conference, Seymour Centre

Session Partner: Alspec
Session 1A (S1A)

When: 9:00am-11:00am, Saturday, 03 May
Where: York Theatre, Seymour Centre, University of Sydney

The affordability crisis gripping Australian housing demands innovative and sustainable solutions that challenge the status quo. In this session, Damian Madigan and Laura Harding will explore bold new housing models designed to address pressing questions about who can afford to live in our cities.

From Damian’s Bluefield approach, which reimagines suburban infill with minimal disruption, to Laura’s urban design expertise in crafting equitable and award-winning housing projects, this session delves into strategies that integrate affordability, resilience, and design excellence. Join us to discuss how architects and urban planners can shape housing models that respond to contemporary social and economic challenges while creating vibrant, liveable communities.

Speakers

Laura Harding, Senior Associate, Hill Thalis Architecture + Urban Projects
Laura Harding is a Sydney-based architect specialising in urban, multi-residential, and public space projects. A widely published architectural critic, she combines design expertise with critical dialogue on equitable and resilient housing. Laura is a recipient of the Adrian Ashton Prize for architectural criticism.

Damian Madigan, Associate Professor of Architecture, University of South Australia
Damian Madigan is a registered architect and creator of the Bluefield concept, which integrates established suburbs into the housing supply. His work focuses on innovative, co-located infill housing to improve affordability and sustainability. Damian also collaborates with the SA State Planning Commission and councils to implement planning reforms.

 

Image: Ferrars & York | Six Degrees Architects | Photographer: Dan Preston