In this episode, Abigail Lee and Daniel Moore speak with Libby Ba-Pe, architect at JDA Co, about her work leading conversations and projects in flood-resilient design. With growing climate risks and repeated flood events across Australia, Libby shares how architects can contribute practical and innovative approaches to designing safer, more adaptable homes.

Libby reflects on the Flood Resilient Homes program, which provides homeowners with tools and strategies to retrofit existing dwellings and design new housing to withstand future flooding events. She explains how JDA Co has worked closely with local councils, government agencies, and communities to embed resilience at both the building and neighbourhood scale.

Our discussion highlights the technical strategies behind flood-resilient design – from material choices and elevated structures to planning decisions that improve recovery times and reduce long-term vulnerability. But just as importantly, Libby emphasises the human dimension, sharing stories of working directly with families whose lives have been profoundly affected by floods and how design can help restore security and dignity.

This conversation shines a light on the crucial role architects play in climate adaptation, demonstrating that resilience is not just about protecting property, but about designing homes and communities that can thrive in the face of uncertainty.

Our sponsor Brickworks also produces architecture podcasts hosted by Tim Ross. You can find ‘The Art of Living’, ‘Architects Abroad, and ‘The Power of Two’, at brickworks.com.au or your favourite podcast platform.

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This is a production by the Australian Institute of Architects Emerging Architects and Graduates Network, in collaboration with Open Creative Studio. The Institute production team was Katie Katos, Claudia McCarthy, and Mark Broadhead, and the EmAGN production team was Abigail Lee and Daniel Moore.

This content is brought to you by the Australian Institute of Architects Emerging Architects and Graduates Network, in collaboration with Open Creative Studio. This content does not take into account specific circumstances and should not be relied on in that way. This content does not constitute legal, financial, insurance, or other types of advice. You should seek independent verification or advice before relying on this content in circumstances where loss or damage may result. The Institute endeavours to publish content that is accurate at the time it is published, but does not accept responsibility for content that may or will become inaccurate over time.

We respectfully acknowledge the Traditional Owners of country throughout Australia where this podcast was produced, as the first storytellers, the first communities and the first creators of Australian culture. I extend that respect to the Traditional Custodians of country throughout the multiple places abroad where this podcast was recorded.  We thank Traditional Custodians for caring for Country for thousands of generations.  and recognise their profound connection to land, water, and skies.