2014 Winners
Winner: Nishi
Architect: March Studio
Location: ACT
A multi-purpose building which encapsulates both residential and commercial use with retail, hotel and residential zones, March Studio has created a space which encourages inhabitants and guests to linger. The relaxed, impermanent feel and spectacular use of timber as art but also architecture at the same time, is strongly highlighted by thousands of strategically placed re-purposed timber lengths artistically blurring the lines and direct view, establishing an overall unique identity for this project.
Commendation: University of Queensland Advanced Engineering Building
Architect: Hassell Melbourne
Location: QLD
Recognised for its highly sustainable and conceived ‘living building’ design, the seven-story state-of-the-art engineering education facility comprises an atrium space with laboratories, offices and three-story auditorium. Its impressive representation of the use of timber in engineering in a decorative and functional space, the auditorium is the standout space featuring a folded roof over exposed timber truss elements. Columns, trusses and long span beams made from a richly coloured Hyne mixed timber are framed by a three-story glass wall allowing ample daylight and a warm feel.
Commendation: Camperdown Childcare
Architect: CO-AP Architects
Location: NSW
This project sensitively inserts new architecture into a former industrial warehouse building. The brief called for a new 80-place childcare centre that would accommodate indoor and outdoor playspaces, an abundance of daylight and natural ventilation, using low VOC materials. Dominant bright colours were avoided in preference to a palette of natural, honest materials and finishes to create a familiar residential feel, so timber was a natural choice for the project.