Lindsay Bush

Lindsay Bush is a Lecturer at the Manchester School of Architecture, Manchester Metropolitan University. Her work bridges architectural practice, urban design, and socio-cultural engagement, focusing on spatial justice, informality, and participatory approaches in postcolonial cities. She has taught at institutions in South Africa and the UK, led the Cooperative Urbanism Lab, and exhibited at the Venice Biennale 2016.

• PhD in Architecture (Durban University of Technology, 2022)
• MAS in Urban Design (ETH Zürich, 2011)
• Professional qualification (SACAP, 2004)
• BArch Advanced (University of KwaZulu-Natal, 2001)
• Bachelor of Architectural Studies (UKZN, 1997)

Bush’s research centers on understanding urban environments through user-centric, qualitative methodologies. Her doctoral thesis, 'A Model for Integrated, High-Rise Urban Living: Learning from Durban’s Beachfront', examines socioeconomically diverse coastal high-rise communities. She emphasizes analogue learning techniques—exploring, drawing, and storytelling—to uncover hidden narratives and envision alternative urban futures. Themes include informality, co-design, tactical urbanism, and play in the city.

At Manchester Metropolitan University, Bush leads the Cooperative Urbanism Lab, focusing on collaborative, communal, and convivial urbanism. Her teaching integrates spatial design with critical social inquiry, reflecting her commitment to crisis-responsive, postcolonial design practices.

• 2020–2022: Lecturer, Department of Architecture, Durban University of Technology
• 2016–2021: Lecturer, Department of Architecture, University of KwaZulu-Natal
• 2011–2016: Project Manager & Researcher, Urban Age (AHG, Deutsche Bank)
• 2012–2015: Programme Manager, World Design Capital 2014, City of Cape Town
• 2007–2010: Architectural Assistant, Foster + Partners, London
• 2004–2007: Architect, Soundspace Design, Durban