Samantha Donnelly

My research in trauma-informed design is gaining significant traction nationally and internationally, positioning me as a leading voice in this emerging field. Through my work on women’s refuges in NSW, I am in frequent contact with service providers, housing organisations, and architectural practices seeking practical guidance on integrating trauma-informed principles into the built environment. This level of engagement reflects the relevance and urgency of my research and directly supports the UTS 2030 strategic mission to advance resilient, globally connected professional practices, promoting UTS a leading voice in trauma-informed architectural design research. The Design Guide for Refuge Accommodation for Women and Children has had wide-reaching influence, with uptake and interest from stakeholders in the US and UK. Its impact extends beyond academia, contributing to public discourse on housing and safety in the context of increasing gender-based violence and housing precarity.