Last week the NSW Government launched the NSW Housing Pattern Book. This document has understood the value of design thinking to improve people’s lives. The Pattern Book is an investment into clever architectural outcomes, to ensure that great, liveable housing is affordable and readily available.
The initiative has received widespread media coverage. The media latched onto the surprisingly low cost—just $1—for well-considered and liveable architecture, however it is important to put this into context.
Like our medical PBS scheme, the use of each pattern is heavily subsidised by the NSW Government. Whether the cost is $1 or $1000, it is in no way intended to reflect the true value of the designs that have been created, just as the $7.70 cost of a script at the pharmacy does not reflect the years of research and refinement that go into subsidised medication.
All architects involved in the Pattern Book were compensated for both their design work and for licensing their patterns. GANSW has also advised that if the patterns prove wildly successful, the licensing model will be reassessed.
We are optimistic that these designs will contribute positively to the built environment in a way that, as Minister Scully notes, ‘creates attractive neighbourhoods that stand the test of time – places that are vibrant and well located, sustainable, adaptable and loved.’ At the very least, if these patterns help disrupt the monotonous uniformity of our sprawling suburbs, that alone would be an achievement.
The other exciting news for practice this month is the digitisation of Australian Building Industry Contracts (ABIC). In the process of digitisation, a number of improvements have been made to contemporise the contract. Some elements (including items for NSW) are still being fine-tuned however, the contract is now live. As of yesterday, over 100 users have already accessed contracts, and one contract has been executed. All feedback is appreciated here so if you do have any questions please contact the Chapter.
To continue with thoughts from our committed Chapter Councillors, Carol Marra, who was the recent recipient of the Colorbond award for steel architecture at the NSW Architecture Awards 2025 for the Eco-House in Leura, provides the following insight into her continued advocacy for our profession. Here she describes a recent interface with one of our great partners, parlour.org. Along with some words from Kirby Rees, Chair of the Built Environment Committee.
– Elizabeth Carpenter, NSW CHAPTER PRESIDENT
Invited by the expert matchmaker Justine Clark, I was recently on the spot at Parlour’s Sydney Salon, in conversation with Siobhan Toohill. Together we explored themes of agency, resilience and optimism – highlighting the value of presenting clients and employers with a clear agenda, and the importance of driving change within one’s own sphere of influence. We reflected on the lasting impact of mentors and teachers, and shared aspirations for advancing knowledge in sustainability, climate resilience and human rights. Parlour’s Salons are a great way to widen the conversations and links in our profession and I was glad to contribute. This conversation will be converted into a Parlour POD podcast for future reference.
– Carol Marra, Marra + Yeh Architects, NSW Chapter Council.
The NSW Built Environment Committee (BEC) is currently advancing a series of white papers and case studies to elevate the architectural profession’s role in shaping a better built environment for all. At the heart of this work is a clear purpose: to support the urgent delivery of high-quality, housing across all scales – for Australians today and tomorrow.
Our approach draws on deep industry knowledge and a commitment to public good. We are engaging with government and the wider property ecosystem to identify and unlock opportunities for better outcomes — not just faster ones. From density, yields and productivity to land utilisation, contributions, potential for partnerships and NCC reform, we’re providing insight and practical recommendations to shift policy and built environment outcomes.
Architects have a unique systems-level understanding of how to connect built form, community need and long-term value. Through this work, we’re advocating for a more resilient, equitable and sustainable future for NSW.
– Kirby Rees, Chair of the Built Environment Committee.
