Spatial Planning Under the Livable Housing Design Standard (LHDS)

The Livable Housing Design Standard (LHDS) sets out technical provisions to help ensure Class 1a and 2 buildings better meet the needs of the community, including older people and those with mobility limitations.

Since its introduction into the National Construction Code (NCC) in 2022, Livable Housing Design is no longer a “nice to have”, but a mandatory requirement for applicable residential projects.

In practice, however, designers often encounter challenges when implementing these standards. Common issues include non-compliant bathroom layouts due to insufficient circulation space or clearances, late-stage redesigns to achieve compliance, and difficulty integrating requirements without compromising design intent or apartment efficiency.

This session of CPD Live is intended to address the gap between what the code requires and how to deliver it in built form, with our speakers identifying the surest pathways to residential buildings that are livable and meet the evolving needs of all members of the community.

At the end of this presentation, you should be able to:

• Identify LHDS requirements and explain how they apply to Class 1a and Class 2 buildings
• Explain how resolving compliance issues early in the design process can help avoid redesigns
• Outline how fixture choices impact compliance – and particularly how in-wall cisterns can help unlock space
• Identify the key considerations involved in designing bathrooms that comply with LHDS requirements

(PROJECT INITIATION AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN PC12,  PROJECT INITIATION AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN PC18, PROJECT INITIATION AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN PC25, PROJECT INITIATION AND CONCEPTUAL DESIGN PC33)

SPEAKERS

Brittany Lloyd-Tertis, QLD/NT State Manager, Geberit

Brittany Lloyd-Tertis is the QLD/NT State Manager for Geberit in Australia; a globally active group specialising in sanitary technology and piping innovations. Since joining the plumbing industry in 2015, Brittany has developed a keen interest in how Accessibility, technology and sustainability can come together within the construction space. Predominantly focussing in the specification and design stage of a project, Brittany is motivated by design-led solutions, identifying new and creative ways to achieve project objectives with longevity at the core of each decision.

Gina Taylor, Architect

Gina Taylor is an accomplished architect with over 13 years’ experience across retail, commercial, multi‑residential, aged care, industrial, interiors, corporate fit outs, and healthcare projects. She is known for leading complex, multi‑stakeholder developments and creating innovative, functional spaces that respond directly to client needs.

Her design ethos centres on the human experience, integrating biophilic design, spatial adaptability, and inclusive, culturally enriched environments. Guided by empathy‑driven design, Gina focuses on spaces that support wellbeing, growth, and long‑term usability.

Gina is committed to advancing social impact, actively contributing to research and advocacy in social housing, liveable and intergenerational housing, specialist disability design, and inclusive environments. Her leadership, attention to detail, and collaborative approach consistently deliver high‑quality outcomes.