Rethinking Neighbourhoods: Insights from the OAA SHIFT Challenge Winners (Part 1 of 3)

Architecturally Speaking

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In this episode of Architecturally Speaking, host Ryan Schwartz welcomes listeners our three-part series on the Ontario Association of Architects’ SHIFT Challenge, a biennial competition inviting architects to explore bold ideas for the future of design.

This year’s theme, Reshaping Communities, focuses on rethinking how neighbourhoods are built to better respond to modern urban challenges. Ryan is joined by two winners of the 2025 SHIFT Challenge: Naama Blonder of Smart Density, whose project Subdivillage reimagines the subdivision, and Tim Scott, whose project The City Limits proposes a redesign of a century-old Toronto suburb.

Together, they share insights on the power of walkability, the importance of public space, and the need to move beyond car-dominated planning. From creating safe, pedestrian-first streets to introducing gentle density in established neighbourhoods, their visions highlight how thoughtful design can foster stronger, more sustainable communities.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation on the future of urban design and how architects can help reshape the places we live, work, and connect.

Subscribe now to Architecturally Speaking on YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts.

Chapters

1. Introduction to Architecturally Speaking and the SHIFT Challenge (00:00:00)

2. Overview of the 2025 SHIFT Challenge: Reshaping Communities (00:00:37)

3. Introduction of Guests: Naama Blonder and Tim Scott (00:01:09)

4. Initial Thoughts on Reshaping Communities (00:01:27)

5. Naama Blonder on the Relevance of Reshaping Communities (00:02:23)

6. Tim Scott on Personal Connection to the Challenge (00:03:06)

7. Tim Scott's Project: The City Limits (00:04:54)

8. Naama Blonder's Project: Subdivillage (00:07:15)

9. Tim Scott's Vision for Increasing Density (00:10:03)

10. Comparing New and Existing Neighborhoods (00:11:48)

11. What Makes a Good Neighborhood? (00:12:09)

12. The Importance of Public Spaces and Tolerance (00:14:44)

13. Creating Community from Neighborhoods (00:16:05)

14. The Concept of Walkability (00:17:19)

15. The Role of Lanes in Neighborhood Design (00:19:04)

16. The Menu of Streets Concept (00:20:37)

17. Integrating Nature into Suburban Design (00:21:09)

18. Examples of Successful Street Design (00:23:03)

19. The Debate on Bike Lanes (00:24:20)

20. Planning for the Next 100 Years (00:28:08)

21. The Role of Transit in Neighborhood Design (00:29:01)

22. The Future of Urban Living (00:31:00)

23. Advocacy and the Role of Architects (00:33:00)

24. The Role of Architects in Practice (00:36:07)

25. The Need for Higher Density Near Transit (00:38:48)

26. Closing Thoughts and Future Directions (00:40:02)

27. Encouragement to Explore SHIFT Challenge Projects (00:42:51)

28. Conclusion and Call to Action (00:43:12)

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