"Architects for Change" is a podcast exploring the intersection of architecture, the built environment, and politics. Hosted by Jay Morton, an architect and political enthusiast, this podcast tackles critical issues facing the world today. Each episode features changemakers and thought leaders shaping the future of our cities and spaces. The podcast aims to uncover innovative ideas and common threads that act as barriers to progress.
Building Homes, AI and the Future of Architects | Gary McLuskey
In this episode of Architects for Change, Jay speaks to Gary McLuskey, Global Head of Design at Greystar.Gary has spent over 30 years working across social housing, private development and build-to-rent. From Glasgow housing estates to major international developments, he brings a unique perspective on what is really preventing the delivery of good homes.They discuss why housing policy often conflicts with how people actually want to live, the unintended consequences of planning regulations, and what Greystar has learned from over two million residents worldwide.They also explore the future of architecture in an age of AI, why architects must embrace technology rather than fear it, and how the profession can reclaim a more influential role in shaping places.Topics include:• The evolution of build-to-rent• Why regulation can reduce housing delivery• Density, daylight and the debate around housing standards• Lessons from Madrid, Australia and the United States• Why successful communities are about people, not just buildings• The UK's planning and viability challenges• AI, technology and the future of architectural practice• Why Gary believes this is the most exciting time in decades to be an architectA fascinating conversation about housing, design, development and the future of our profession.
24 Mar 2026
The Politics of Regeneration: Baron John of Southwark on Building Homes in London
In this episode of Architects for Change, Jay Morton speaks with Peter John, former Leader of Southwark Council and now a member of the House of Lords.Peter led Southwark for a decade during a period of major change across London. Under his leadership the borough delivered significant estate regeneration, new council housing and large scale urban transformation projects.Jay and Peter discuss the realities of delivering housing in London, the politics of regeneration, and what local government can and cannot do to tackle the housing crisis. They explore how councils balance growth with community concerns, why planning has become increasingly politicised, and what needs to change if the UK is going to deliver the homes it desperately needs.The conversation also reflects on Peter’s move into the House of Lords and what role national policy can play in enabling better housing delivery.A thoughtful discussion on housing, politics and the difficult decisions behind city making. #architecture #southwark #elephantandcastle #houseoflords #uklabour #labourparty #politics #podcast #planning #housing #1.5millionhomes
14 Jan 2026
People Move to Places, Not Buildings: Nick Searl on King’s Cross and Beyond
Nick Searl has spent nearly two decades shaping some of the UK’s most ambitious regeneration projects. Trained as an architect, he played a pivotal role in the transformation of King’s Cross and later led the delivery of Brent Cross Town. In this episode of Architects for Change, Nick reflects on what really made King’s Cross work: building trust before drawings, agreeing shared principles, and investing early in public space, culture and everyday life long before homes and offices were complete. We explore why people move to places, not buildings; why sound, joy and human experience matter in city-making; and why doing “the engaging stuff” first is not a nice-to-have, but fundamental to successful regeneration. With the government’s new towns agenda back on the table, Nick shares hard-won lessons on infrastructure, viability, political will and public-private partnership — and why measuring success purely by housing numbers risks repeating past mistakes. We also look ahead to what Nick is working on now, the role architects need to reclaim in shaping cities, and why — despite everything — he remains optimistic about the future of large-scale urban development. #architecture #podcast #politics #economy #realestate #masterplannedcommunity #masterplanning #urbandesign #1.5millionhomes #labourparty #relatedargent #kingscross
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Spotify
5.0 / 5
8 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 20 / 100
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Quality
39
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
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