29: Building Better Cities Through Design and Innovation

In this episode, we sit down with Julian Anderson, Director at Bates Smart, to explore how design and innovation are shaping the future of Australia’s built environment. From reimagining Richmond Station as a gateway to Melbourne’s sports and entertainment precinct, through to activating underused rail land with mixed-use, transit-adjacent developments, Julian shares how architecture and urban design can enhance both connectivity and community.

We also dive into the evolution of Build to Rent and Build to Sell projects, exploring the cultural and design shifts required to meet Australia’s housing challenges. Drawing on his international experience in the UK and his work on some of Australia’s most significant multi-residential and commercial projects, Julian provides unique insight into how design can balance affordability, liveability and sustainability while creating thriving, people-focused precincts.

Julian Anderson is a Director at Bates Smart, one of Australia’s leading architecture and design practices. With extensive experience in both the UK and Australia, he has led projects across commercial, residential, educational, infrastructure and urban design. His portfolio includes Melbourne’s most significant multi-residential Build to Rent and Build to Sell developments, as well as landmark projects such as Sydney’s $1.5 billion Crown Residences and Hotel at Barangaroo. Prior to joining Bates Smart, Julian worked in London on major infrastructure projects including King’s Cross Station and Paddington Crossrail. Known for turning complex briefs into innovative, user-focused architecture, Julian is passionate about delivering design outcomes that are humanistic, sustainable and responsive to place.

Tune in to hear Julian’s perspective on the future of housing, urban design and precinct-making and how design thinking can help Australia build more connected, resilient and liveable communities.

EPISODE LINKS

Julian Anderson

Bates Smart

A vision for Richmond station

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