Heritage and Density Done Well
- James Lesh
- Sep 12
- 2 min read
The planning reforms and housing crisis are challenging for the heritage sector, which was once adverse to denser housing in established suburbs. But the views of the heritage sector are changing as we adopt the #DensityDoneWell and #TIMBY agendas.
Dr James Lesh of Heritage Workshop has written previously about the consensus reached in the 1980s for Australia's CBDs. Low-height historic buildings and modern skyscrapers are now built in close proximity. These projects are celebrated as positive heritage outcomes.
Yet densifying our heritage suburbs is still highly contested. How can we achieve a new consesus for residential areas that enables new quality housing, while retaining what is special about these neighbourhoods.
Last quarter, this newsletter commented on the democratic deficit in Victoria's new planning reforms. Heritage experts and community groups have not had their voices heard. Unfortunately, the reforms generate uncertainty for Melbourne's loved heritage areas.
Since then, Heritage Workshop has been engaged on policy, industry and community projects exploring positive reforms, enhanced design, and better regulation to heritage for density.
In July, James joined the Australian Institute of Architects' #DensityDoneWell panel, with Damian Madigan (UniSA), Jocelyn Chiew (Strategic Design), Jill Garner (Victorian Government Architect), and Kim Roberts (Urbis). He spoke about unifying heritage and sustainability to build more homes.
In May, James led the Re-Thinking Heritage and Housing in Carlton and Fitzroy Walking Tour – in collaboration with Sonia Sarangi and Michael Smith (Andever) and the National Trust Heritage Festival. Now on our website, check out our itinerary and take the walk yourself to see great examples of heritage and housing done thoughtfully.
Across our projects, Heritage Workshop offers analytical and evidence-based perspectives towards a new consensus for housing and heritage.
This editorial appeared in our September 2025 Heritage Insights Newsletter.
