Building Independence: NDIS Architecture & Design and the Latest in SDA Housing

Written By henry sgourakis

What’s New in SDA Today?

Recent reporting by ABC Four Corners has highlighted a growing challenge in the SDA sector: over 1,000 purpose-built homes across Australia are sitting empty—including quite a number in Melbourne’s outer west. These homes, designed to support people with profound disability, are often located in areas with limited access to amenities and services, making them less attractive to eligible residents.ABC

At SGKS ARCH, this brings crucial insight to the fore: location matters as much as design. It's not enough to build accessible homes they must be connected to community, transport, and health services to be genuinely inhabitable.

How Good Design Should Respond

Our philosophy goes beyond compliance. We believe SDA architecture should:

  • Prioritise strategic siting, ensuring residents are well connected to allied health, social infrastructure, and community.

  • Promote human-centred materials and forms, not just for durability, but also warmth and community integration.

  • Integrate with broader communities, avoiding isolation and encouraging social inclusion.

  • Offer flexible layouts, so homes can adapt as support needs grow or change.

By considering the full picture place, people, and pride we ensure every home is not just accessible, but also inviting and lived-in.

henry sgourakis
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