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The SDA HOUSING Podcast
"The SDA HOUSING Podcast" is brought to you by the team at NDIS PROPERTY AUSTRALIA. Whether you are listening as an Investor, Provider, Builder, Developer or Participant, we cover a wide range of topics informative to any audience. We discuss how we work with all stakeholders in sourcing and delivering new dwellings which are SDA compliant, to general information about the NDIS, and statistics about Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) in the NDIS sector. We regularly have guest speakers each week from other organisations to talk about their involvement in the SDA sector, and how they contribute to the social impact of SDA, building homes that are fit-for-purpose, while giving NDIS participants the "Choice and Control" over how, where and with whom they live. As we are learning and adapting to an evolving world of SDA in the NDIS sector, we want you, our listeners, to come on the journey with us so that you too can contribute and make a social impact for People With Disabilities (PWDs). If you would like to share your SDA journey with us, we welcome you to contact us to tell your story. Please feel free to call us on 1300 254 397 to talk to one of our friendly staff, or email us - podcast@ndis.property. Otherwise, just pop on over to our website to find out more info on what we do - www.ndispropertyaustralia.com.au
The SDA HOUSING Podcast
EPISODE 230 - FORMSPACE BUILDING DESIGN - Sean Kirkland
This episode welcomes Sean Kirkland (FORMSPACE) who is a well-established SDA Building Designer within the NDIS, having designed 100 concept designs over the years. Minh interviews Sean finally after 5 months from whence Sean reached out to us to express his appreciation for what we did on the podcast show.
The main topics covered in this interview are:
SDA Design Quality
Sean expressed concerns about poor design practices in the SDA space, noting that many builds were temporary solutions rather than fit-for-purpose housing outcomes.
Becoming a Registered NDIS Provider
Sean discussed his journey to be a registered NDIS provider, highlighting the extensive process involving audits, applications, and background checks to signal his commitment to quality in the SDA space.
Role of Building Designers vs. Architects
Sean elaborated on the differences between building designers and architects in the SDA space, emphasizing the practical construction experience that building designers like himself bring to SDA projects.
Importance of Real-World Experience
He stressed the importance of real-world construction experience, which he believes is crucial for effective SDA design, a skill set that differentiates him from others in the field.
Projects Across Locations
Sean mentions working on projects in locations such as QLD, SA, VIC, and NSW, involving HPS, FA, & IL housing, villas, and apartments.
Compliance with Standards
Sean emphasises the importance of staying updated with the latest SDA standards and NCC changes to ensure compliance and relevance in their work.
Client-Centric Design Approach
Sean emphasizes the importance of listening to clients’ needs and feedback to establish a clear brief, which guides the entire design process.
Engagement of External Consultants
External consultants, such as Certifiers, are engaged early to provide preliminary assessment reports, which help define design parameters.
The Role of Access Consultants
Access consultants play a crucial role throughout the design to build process, ensuring compliance and functionality for disability accommodations.
Challenges in Design Compliance
Sean discusses common issues with non-compliant designs in the industry and how he addresses these by adhering to standards and suggesting alternative solutions.
Client Types in SDA Space
There are different types of clients in the SDA space, including builders and developers who trust professional advice, and first-time mom and dad investors who need guidance to separate emotions from the design process.
Marketplace Evolution
The marketplace is becoming more sophisticated with clients who are better informed and educated, leading to a demand for higher quality & more discerning SDA designs.
Choosing a Designer or Architect
Sean advises on selecting a designer or architect by looking at their portfolio to gauge competency and by understanding their intentions and history in the industry.
Industry Collaboration
Sean appreciates the efforts of Deb and Minh, helping educate the industry & expresses a desire for increased collaboration in SDA.
For more information about what Sean does at FORMSPACE, click on the link to find out more: www.formspacebuildingdesign.com
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www.ndispropertyaustralia.com.au