TALK: Taking Mid-Century Modern Beyond the 21st Century | Heritage Festival 2026

Canberra’s mid‑century modern buildings are some of the city’s most distinctive architectural assets—yet misconceptions about their adaptability often stand in the way of creative reuse. This event brings together two leading voices in architecture and heritage to challenge those myths and open up a conversation about the future of these iconic structures.

Alanna King, architect and member of the ACT Heritage Council, joins Shannon Battisson, Director of studio.sdb and 2022-23 National President of the Australian Institute of Architects, for an in‑depth discussion on the real opportunities and perceived barriers surrounding adaptive reuse.

Together, they explore how mid‑century buildings can meet contemporary needs, support sustainability goals, and strengthen Canberra’s unique urban identity.