Better Placed

The Better Placed design policy creates a clear approach to ensure we get the good design that will deliver the architecture, public places and environments we want to inhabit now and those we make for the future.

Better fit contextual, local and of its place.

Good design in the built environment is informed by and derived from its location, context and social setting. It is place-based and relevant to and resonant with local character, heritage and communal aspirations. It also contributes to evolving and future character and setting.

Better performance is sustainable, adaptable and durable.

Environmental sustainability and responsiveness is essential to meet the highest performance standards for living and working. Sustainability is no longer an optional extra, but a fundamental aspect of functional, whole of life design.

Better for community is inclusive, connected and diverse.

The design of the built environment must seek to address growing economic and social disparity and inequity, by creating inclusive, welcoming and equitable environments. Incorporating diverse uses, housing types and economic frameworks will support engaging places and resilient communities.

Better for people is safe, comfortable and liveable.

The built environment must be designed for people with a focus on safety, comfort and the basic requirement of using public space. The many aspects of human comfort which affect the usability of a place must be addressed to support good places for people.

Better working is functional, efficient and fit for purpose.

Having a considered, tailored response to the program or requirements of a building or place, allows for efficiency and usability with the potential to adapt to change. Buildings and spaces which work well for their proposed use will remain valuable and well-utilised.

Better value is creating and adding value.

Good design generates ongoing value for people and communities and minimises costs over time. Creating shared value of place in the built environment raises standards and quality of life for users, as well as adding return on investment for industry.

Better look and feel engaging, inviting and attractive.

The built environment should be welcoming and aesthetically pleasing, encouraging communities to use and enjoy local places. The feel of a place, and how we use and relate to our environments is dependent upon the aesthetic quality of our places, spaces and buildings. The visual environment should contribute to its surroundings and promote positive engagement.

Better Placed confirms our collective wishes for the future design of our infrastructure, architecture and public spaces and endorses the power of design to enable a better and resilient future for our communities.

Peter Poulet, Former NSW Government Architect

Strategy for Action, Evaluating Good Design and Implementing Good Design are short documents prepared in response to a request from practitioners using GANSW Better Placed policy. They are practical tools to assist in the delivery, evaluation and implementation of good design.