As architects we are educated to consider complex problems with multiple parameters from a diverse range of perspectives.  The inventiveness with which architects approach these often wicked problems was amply demonstrated once again at the SA Awards presentations, which were held last Saturday.  Different perspectives and methodologies had been employed to arrive at unique and delightful outcomes that add value to the people who experience these buildings and enrich the environments in which they are located.

Once again, the awards provided a great opportunity to celebrate success in what can be a punishing profession.  Fee pressure and fast-tracked programs appear to be an inescapable reality for many practices, which in turn limits time to explore and innovate and drives a culture of long work hours and sustained stress.

It is not surprising therefore that people leave the profession in search of a more balanced lifestyle.  Evidence collected over many years shows us that the majority of the people making this decision are women.  While the gender balance for graduates has been a reality for at least a decade, the number of women remaining in the profession still diminishes significantly post-graduation.  The result is a lack of role models for female architects and minimal numbers of women in senior positions, especially at an equity level.

While this issue has been discussed and analysed in multiple forums, there has been limited impact to date.  This is evidenced by the continuing lack of retention and limited visibility of women in the profession.  An example of this ongoing issue is provided in the letter from Sarah Paddick, which highlights her observations at the SA Awards presentations.

As a result, ongoing debate is increasingly being accompanied by programs that include action to effect real and sustained change.  In South Australia, this has resulted in the formation of the SA Designers for Diversity initiative.  With the support of Chapter Council, a committed and dynamic group of members; Sarah Paddick, Tracey Roughana, Kirstie Coultas, Saralee Aufdeheide, Jenna Holder, Catherine Startari and Sally Bolton have developed the program with the aim to:

• increase awareness of existing culture
• encourage and support behaviours that achieve diversity and equity within practice
• enable participants to benchmark and celebrate their progress

The objective is to foster the good things that are already happening within the profession, share successful initiatives, build awareness of bias – conscious and unconscious – and to challenge participants to excel in effecting real change at a personal and practice level. 

The initial focus is of SA Designers for Diversity is on gender equity.  However, there is a general consensus that many of the issues that exist for women apply within the context of the profession as a whole.  Our current work culture is equally punishing for men and places them in positions which limit their opportunities to engage with family, participate in activities outside work and live full, healthy lives.  In a profession which is enriched by diverse experience and perspectives, this narrowing of experience is surely limiting.

Twelve of the practices who were initially invited to participate in SA Designers for Diversity have already agreed to be involved.  This is a great place to start this important project.  If you would like to know more or to participate, please contact the SA Chapter.  

Nicolette Di Lernia
SA Chapter Executive Director