We look at how Australians have lived together in the past — and what those lessons might offer us today.

From the tightly packed worker’s cottages of the early 1900s, where strong community bonds helped people get by, to the bold experiments in communal and cooperative living during the 1970s, Australians have long found creative ways to share space.

Now, as the housing crisis deepens, one State Government (NSW) is reviving the idea of the housing pattern book — a fast-track design initiative that encourages density, sustainability, and smarter living.

But are Australians ready to embrace the idea of “home” not as a private fortress, but where shared space and personal privacy coexist?

Hosted by Professor of Architecture Anthony Burke, this series asks: can we reimagine the Dream? 

For more conversations about design with Anthony Burke & friends, head to  Lifestyle on ABC iView

Production assistance this week by Rachael Bongiorno.

Guests in this episode

• Janet McCalman, Emeritus Professor at Melbourne University and author of Struggletown Public and Private Life in Richmond 1900- 1965 
• Abbie Galvin, NSW Government Architect
• Lee Stickells,  Associate Professor at the School of Architecture, University of Sydney
• Peter Cock, Co-founder of Moora Moora Cooperative in the Dandenong Ranges, Melbourne.
• Chelsea McNabb, Resident at Moora Moora Cooperative
• Izzy Kane, Resident at Moora Moora Cooperative