Designing Density: Creating Livable Communities For All Victorians
Presented by Plus Architecture
DETAILS
Free, booking required
Plus Architecture
level 5/107 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne VIC, Australia
Plus Architecture invites you to attend a panel discussion exploring how thoughtful densification can create more livable, sustainable communities across Victoria. The discussion will examine innovative approaches to urban density that respond to contemporary living patterns, from multi-generational housing to tailored developments in activity zones.
Drawing on Plus Architecture’s extensive experience in master planning and multi-residential projects, the panel will explore how we can create housing that reflects real
community needs while preserving and enhancing neighbourhood character. The panel will bring together diverse perspectives from urban planning, heritage, architecture, and local government to discuss the challenges and opportunities in designing density for all Victorians. Topics will include: creating homes that respond to contemporary living patterns, balancing density with heritage and existing neighbourhood character, developing sustainable, walkable communities, and making housing accessible and appropriate for all Victorians
Participants
Jan Henderson, Principal, Henderson Media Consultants + Editor, Indesign Media Asia Pacific
Jan Henderson is Principal of Henderson Media Consultants and an Editor and Program Director of the INDE.Awards at Indesign Media Asia Pacific. She contributes to architecture and design magazines and blogs, is a regular speaker at events and juror for industry awards. Previous roles include, Associate Publisher at Architecture Media, Editor and Co-editor of inside and Editor at Architel.tv. In 2021, a book by Jan and Dianna Snape titled, Architecture at the heart of the home, was published with Thames and Hudson.
Candice Ng, Director, Plus Architecture
Candice is an architect, strategist, and the engine behind Plus Architecture's Melbourne studio. She has led some of Plus’s most defining projects - always balancing creativity with precision.
As part of the Victorian Government Activity Centres Program, she contributed to evidence-based testing of planning controls across 10 Activity Centres, shaping Victoria’s Housing Statement 2024-2034. This collaboration tackles the housing needs of Victoria’s rapidly growing population, expected to match London’s by 2050.
Ian Briggs, Director, Plus Architecture
Ian is an accomplished architect with the ability to transform ideas into inspired design outcomes that challenge convention. His work shapes precincts, creates urban markers, and distills bold ideas into authentic, site-responsive design. He believes in architecture as an instrument for change - creating places that connect people socially, culturally, and spatially. With thoughtfulness and deliberation, he ensures each project captures the spirit of its location, weaving a considered narrative that makes every building both distinctive and deeply connected to its surroundings.
Gerhana Waty, Director, Hansen Partnership
Gerhana is an urban designer with a deep passion for creating safe, sustainable spaces. With a background in architecture, she blends design assessment and master planning expertise to shape cities thoughtfully. At Hansen, she contributes to a diverse range of projects, from preparing urban frameworks to advising government on development applications, always focused on crafting spaces that blend seamlessly with their surroundings.
Cr Heather Cunsolo, Councillor, City of Port Phillip + Director, Workbench
Former Mayor of Port Phillip, Heather is a current independent councillor with a passion for good design and meaningful development. With an architecture background, she brings a deep understanding of urban planning, sustainability, and community engagement. Heather's leadership is rooted in inclusivity, listening to all voices, and working collaboratively to shape the future of Port Phillip, including key projects like Fishermans Bend and St Kilda Marina.