Tania Davidge is an architect, advocate, writer and researcher, and the co-founder of the architectural research practice OoPLA. Tania has a PhD from the University of Melbourne focused on developing creative strategies for engaging public audiences with architecture and the public realm. She was recently appointed as Executive Director and Chief Curator at Open House Melbourne.
Why did you choose the University of Melbourne for your graduate research studies?
I started at Monash University but my supervisor, Dr Karen Burns, moved to Melbourne and I followed her. That being said, my graduate researcher experience was excellent at the University of Melbourne. I can definitely say I made the right move.
What excites you about your area of research?
My research focuses on creative ways to engage public audiences with architecture and the built environment. I love talking to people about how cities are designed and why people should get involved in how cities are shaped. It is important that everyone participates in the making of our cities because if we want to build cities that welcome everyone we need to listen to a diversity of voices.
What is something that has come out of your project that was unexpected?
During my PhD research I unexpectedly became a public space advocate, leading the community group Citizens for Melbourne. Our group was integral in overturning the proposal to demolish Federation Square’s Yarra building and replace it with an Apple store.
The campaign we ran - Our City, Our Square - became the final case study in my PhD. This case study focused on the importance of citizen participation in the formal and informal processes that make and shape the city and explored creative ways to bring the voices of the public into complex built environment issues.
How do you see your research contributing to industry/society?
My research is focused on developing better ways for people to contribute to the conversations and processes that shape our cities. I would argue that public contribution into how our cities are designed raises the benchmark for the design of our cities. It places people front and centre in the process. Cities should first and foremost be designed for people.
What are you working on now?
I’m currently working as a consultant helping to bring First Peoples cultural expression to architecture and urban design projects. I also curate a public programming series for Open House Melbourne focused on social and affordable housing.
What was the best part of completing your PhD in the Melbourne School of Design?
Working with my supervisor to develop my thinking and the graduation ceremony!
What advice would you give to an aspiring PhD candidate?
Writing is a form of thinking. Write early and write often, understand you will probably be re-writing and feel comforted that this is all part of the process.
Studying a Doctor of Philosophy at the Melbourne School of Design enables graduates to undertake innovative research under the guidance of academic supervisors. Find out more here.