First awarded by the Australian Institute of Architects SA in 1992, the Sir James Irwin President’s Medal was established to recognise a person in respect of significant contributions to the profession of architecture in South Australia. Damian was awarded the Medal in 2025.
AIA SA President Kirsty Coultas’ citation:
The 2025 President’s Medallist is a distinguished architect, educator, researcher and advocate, whose career provides a compelling example of the impact architectural expertise can have in addressing wicked problems.
Early experience in practice informed their later work in architectural education, as well as provided real world knowledge that has grounded their research, making it at once innovative and implementable.
They have significantly contributed to the discourse on sustainable and socially inclusive suburban development and developed a comprehensive framework for integrating low-rise infill housing into established neighbourhoods. This approach emphasizes the retention and enhancement of existing homes and landscape, fostering socially connected communities while preserving neighbourhood character.
Dr. Damian Madigan’s research over a decade has resulted in the recent publication of “Bluefield Housing as Alternative Infill for the Suburbs”, detailing this alternative housing model that reimagines suburban infill through adaptive reuse and co-located housing.
The Future Living Code Amendment, developed in collaboration with the SA Planning Commission, provides the regulatory mechanism for implementing the Bluefield housing model. This is a much-needed strategy for delivery of diverse and affordable housing options at a time when these are so greatly needed. We congratulate Dr. Madigan on his outstanding achievements and his unwavering commitment to advancing sustainable and inclusive housing solutions. Thank you Damian.
