SOCIAL AGENCY

As with many other rapidly urbanising towns and cities, Sydney is witnessing a gentrification of inner-city areas. While often bringing improved services and quality of life, gentrification also often leads to displacement of the original residents, with those remaining often marginalised and socially isolated.

A counter to this is inclusive neighbourhoods, wherein isolated and marginalised groups feel they are equal co-owners and users of places and services. Underpinning inclusive neighbourhoods is the concept of social inclusion, which can be defined as ‘the process of improving the terms on which individuals and groups take part in society – improving the ability, opportunity, and dignity of those disadvantaged on the basis of their identity.’1

This year’s Social Agency graduation studio was concerned with how architects and architecture can contribute to social inclusion. The studio took place in Redfern, currently undergoing rapid gentrification, and was partnered with the vibrant Redfern-based arts collective 107 Projects. The site included 107 Projects’ venue on Redfern Street, Sydney Mental Health Service, housing and cafes. As well as focusing on the 107 Projects existing site, students were free to use some or all of the remaining site.