Third Space, Architecture & Indigeneity – Studies of Designed Environments and Cultural Narratives in Australia

The University of Sydney, digitally published thesis discusses the need for more in-depth conversations that encompass conceptual frameworks relevant to First Nations cultures and presents the qualities of a Third Space. Further, it discusses that it can inform ways of thinking that link architecture and cross-cultural engagement with placemaking in contemporary settings, deep time living practices and colonial interventions on the Australian continent between beings. Focusing primarily on reciprocity in thinking—giving back—and how it informs more nuanced and inclusive approaches to architecture and placemaking as always becoming part of Country.

National Indigenous Infrastructure Guide

The National Indigenous Infrastructure Guide is a written document from the Australian Government Department of Families, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs. The Guide was written to assist people who are working with infrastructure in Indigenous communities. It provides an integrated framework for understanding major infrastructure provision issues for remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

Design: Building on Country

Design: Building on Country, published in 2021, is the second book in a six-book series. The First Knowledges series offers an introduction to Indigenous knowledges in vital areas, with the second book focusing on Design. The book explores building on Country and two different ways of understanding the natural world: ancient and modern.

Everyone’s Knowledge in Country: Yurlendj-nganjin

Published in 2021, this book offers insight into Australian Indigenous Peoples’ perspectives on the built environment. It features Indigenous voices from across Australia, along with several pre-eminent non-Indigenous practitioner voices, the book discusses the value of Indigenous Knowledge Systems in the Australian built environment and landscapes. A resource for all academics, students and practitioners in the built environment sector both within Australia and internationally.

Not an Expert: A discussion about Cultural Authority and collaboration

Not an Expert is video recorded online discussion about Cultural Authority and collaboration with Danièle Hromek and Francoise Lane, convened by Sarah Lynn Rees as part of the Asia Pacific Architecture Festival. The discussion focuses on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Authority in the built environment, acknowledging Indigenous and Western views are not aligned within the architectural process. It further discusses Cultural Authority in practice and within communities.

Transformations: Gendered Indigeneity

An Audio-visual discussing the way Indigeneity and Gender intersect and advocacy groups and how they work alongside First Nations Peoples. This discussion takes place between Sarah Lynn Rees (Palawa) and Carroll Go-Sam (Dyirbal bama) at Melbourne School of Design.

Living with Country: Beau de Belle on artefacts

An audio recording of an ABC Listen conversation with Gamilaraay man and Architect, Beau De Belle. The conversation Living with Country discusses reparation and cultural custodianship within Australia. There is focus on culturally significant objects and artefacts, their appropriation and Indigenous controlled spaces.

Living with Country: Kevin O’Brien on architecture

Living with Country is an audio recording of an ABC Listen conversation with Indigenous Architect, Kevin O’Brien. There is discussion on Australian architecture and how it intersects poorly with Country. The discussion focuses on finding Country, designing with Country and approaching architecture with an understanding of history and culture.

Narrative, Self and Engagement: An Immersive T(r)opical Experience

This paper is written to be a reference tool for educators who wish to expand their design studio learning environments. The paper discusses the complexities of acknowledging and understanding the interface of cultures that exist within our society. It outlines a workshop methodology that embeds cultural differences and acceptance into design studio thinking.