Over 100 Australian architecture studios recently banded together to form Architects Assist, a referral program offering free design and planning assistance to help those impacted by the fires that began in October 2019. Architect Jiri Lev, founder of Atelier Jiri Lev, launched the initiative to address the disaster that’s now burned nearly 2,000 homes and countless structures. "There are many generous people in architecture always willing to help," Lev told Dezeen. "Further, some geographic areas have few architects, whilst others are supersaturated to an extent where multiple simultaneous efforts may overlap or conflict. A joint referral and coordination platform appears to be the natural outcome."

Bushfires have burned an estimated 32 million acres in Australia—an area roughly equivalent to the size of England.

The program essentially operates as a coordination center, where a growing list of architects—several of whom are Australian Institute of Architects Gold Medal winners—can connect to projects according to availability and areas of expertise. Designs are meant to replace lost structures and homes while prioritizing affordability, spatial efficiency, sustainability, and resiliency in future disasters.

The Green Wattle Creek bushfire moves towards the Southern Highlands township of Yanderra as police evacuate residents from Yanderra Road.

It’s still unclear how many will ultimately need or use the service, but Lev anticipates more applicants in the aftermath of the fires. "When the fires are finally over, people will likely need some time before they can even begin to think about rebuilding," he says. "At this point, I can say with some confidence, we are ready when they need us."