The Australian Institute of Architects’ National Architecture Awards travelled to Darwin, bestowing the state’s top architectural honour – the Tracy Memorial Award – on Troppo Architects for their St Mary’s Catholic Primary School New Hall and Library, Reggio Emelia Early Learning Centre and Courtyard.

“The ’E’ Deck, a playful theatrical roof provides shade and opportunity for imaginative play and teaching,” said the jury, chaired by Richard Layton, of St Mary’s Catholic Primary School.

“Steps of the timber platform are both seats for passive rest, and edges for active play.”

The project was also awarded the Reverend John Flynn Award for Public Architecture, Architecture Award for Urban Design and the Colorbond Award for Steel Architecture.

In a further win for Troppo Architects, the practice received the Burnett Award for Residential Architecture – Houses – for their Mortlock Lee House.

Situated near Darwin, the house sits in a stringybark scrubland block and is sited to take into consideration a large ironwood tree.

Ajar Architects were among practices to receive a Commendation from the Institute for their Ambient Atelier, “an architectural solution for a client who wanted to incorporate a work space and goods storage, and renovate an elevated house.”

“While this project is for the private use of the owner, it still contributes to the public domain with its low energy design, pleasing appearance and upgrades the presentation of the neighbourhood generally,” said the jury.

Australian Institute of Architects
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