In this episode, Tatiana Bilbao discusses her firm's approach to community-centered design and affordable housing. Bilbao discusses her "outside-in" design philosophy that involves deeply engaging with the local community and understanding their needs. She talks about the challenges of avoiding gentrification with new architectural interventions, using examples like the Hunter's Point project in San Francisco.

Bilbao also shares insights on policies and regulations that can help make housing more affordable and accessible, as well as her work on the Olive West master plan in St. Louis. The discussion covers topics like the role of architecture in providing "primary care" for people, the problems with housing as a commodity, and the need for more collective and flexible living spaces. Overall, Bilbao provides a thoughtful perspective on how architecture can address critical social and economic issues around housing.

Learning Objectives:

1. Understand the principles and practices of designing spaces that prioritize community engagement, sustainability, and inclusivity.
2. Identify and examine effective policies and strategies to support affordable housing and reduce barriers to equitable urban development.
3. Learn to design adaptable architectural spaces that support diverse community needs and promote long-term habitation flexibility.
4. Investigate the impact of market forces on urban planning, with strategies to mitigate gentrification and protect affordable housing.

Credits: 1.0 AIA LU/Elective

Speaker: Tatiana Bilbao