Designing for inclusivity

71% of women have experienced some sort of sexual harassment in a public space, and 40% of sexual assaults against women happen in public spaces including transport networks. Perhaps part of the problem lies in the fact that women, young people and other vulnerable and marginalised groups are not involved enough in designing public spaces.

Recognising the need for community participation when designing public spaces, Deborah will share how DSDHA has transformed spaces across London, including Exchange Square, Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens and Central Somers Town into safer, accessible and inclusive spaces - delivering proven shifts in how these spaces are now populated.

With a focus on insights gained through their RIBA-funded research Towards Spatial Justice, the discussion will shed light on the need for genuine co-design practices to work towards greater public participation in the design process, and creating spaces that truly belong to everyone.

Deborah Saunt is a Founding Director of the architecture, urban design and research studio DSDHA. Blurring the boundaries between infrastructure, landscape, and architecture, the studio’s work is the result of extensive dialogue with communities, as well as stakeholders and collaborators, to deliver projects that have the broadest impact.

Recent and ongoing projects include the refurbishment of the iconic Grade II* listed Smithson Plaza in St James’s, the retrofit of the National Youth Theatre’s headquarters on Holloway Road and a new public park, Exchange Square, in the heart of the City.

Deborah helped set up the Jane Drew Prize in Architecture, is a Founding Director of the London School of Architecture, and continues to be active in the democratisation of the profession.

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The talk is chaired by Peter Murray OBE, Chair, Temple Bar Trust.

This event includes networking reception with the speaker and audience members following the talk.

Host or Publisher Temple Bar Trust