2014 Winners
Winner: The Commons
Architect: Breathe Architecture
Location: VIC
Awarded for its holistically sustainable and functional aspects, designed to off-set the harsh urbanized conditions of its inner-city location, The Commons is a great blend of design and functionality. The project utilises timber for all its qualities and advantages including weathering, material longevity and acoustic and thermal absorption. The smart design and natural timber facade is also visually pleasing, softening the grittiness of its industrial surrounds.
Commendation: Melton Library and Learning Hub
Architect: Francis-Jones Morehen Thorp
Location: VIC
The Melton Library and Learning Hub incorporates a range of learning spaces and is Australia’s first Green Star Library certified with a 5 Star Green Star rating from the Green Building Council of Australia. The project is praised for its integrated use of timber throughout, both on the exterior for support and decorative interior features. The timber journey starts as you approach the building with the timber frame and large glass façade dominating the streetscape. Inside, a Burnt Ash batten ceiling sweeps the southern entry canopy emphasising the representation of the sustainable aspirations of the project.
Commendation: Port of Echuca Discovery Centre
Architect: Jaws Architects
Location: VIC
Designed to reveal the Port’s rich collection of stories, the Discovery Centre is a site of state heritage significance. The revitalisation project has been completed with sensitivity to its environment, while also setting the visitor up for an interactive, educational experience of the paddle steamer capital of Australia. From the stained Victorian Ash batten ceiling floating gently over the foyer to the lanolin-finished Desert Bloodwood cladding that extends from the exterior into the Foyer to help provide a seamless transition, its use of recycled and local timbers is impressive.