ABSTRACT
This chapter presents the range of innovative design strategies arising out of a lived experience of extreme flooding in Southeast Queensland. It provides the body of work of James Davidson Architect, an architectural practice based in Brisbane, Australia. Since leading Emergency Architects Australia's Queensland Flood relief effort in 2011, the practice has embarked on a series of experimental flood-resilient projects. Based on Davidson's professional experience, the strategy of going with the flow is vital in maintaining a middle ground between flood risk and economic reality in flood prone areas. James Davidson Architect's work with the Queensland Reconstruction Authority has highlighted Building Codes Queensland's willingness to consider amending local building controls in order to improve residential flood resilience. The practice has designed and built several innovative flood-resilient housing projects. Graceville Avenue continues the use of heavy materials with standard block work rendered with a waterproof mix. Layering resilient materials should complement streetscape, scale, and character of the location.
