The fourth Change by Design workshop took place last week, from Monday 20th to Saturday 25th January, marking the conclusion of a series of action-learning initiatives addressing the future of informally occupied buildings in Johannesburg's inner city. Organised by ASF-UK and 1to1 – Agency of Engagement, this initiative was made possible through collaboration with the Inner City Federation, Inner City Resource Centre, SERI, and IIED. We also received support from several universities in South Africa and the UK, including Wits University, which generously hosted us, as well as the University of Johannesburg, University of Cape Town, University of Sheffield, University College London, and London Metropolitan University.
The workshop brought together a diverse group of participants, including architects, planners, geographers, political scientists, and community organisers. Together, we explored opportunities for transforming informally occupied buildings into viable housing solutions for low-income residents in the inner city. Our discussions with residents and allies encompassed both the material aspects of these buildings and the immaterial challenges related to governance, self-organisation, funding, and more.
The workshop culminated in a public brainstorming session aimed at co-designing practical pathways for community-based upgrading, repair, and maintenance of specific case study buildings.
As we finalise the outputs from this 2-year initiative, stay tuned for upcoming publications and resources dedicated to advancing adequate housing conditions for all Johannesburg residents.
