The NSW Architecture Awards, an annual gathering that honours architectural ingenuity, recognised an array of projects, showcasing the significance of design in shaping cultural, economic, and societal facets of New South Wales. Among the recognised projects, the redevelopment of the iconic Sydney Opera House was given special attention.

Marking its 50^th anniversary, the Sydney Opera House received the prestigious New South Wales Architecture Medallion. ARM Architecture, the firm behind the redevelopment, was lauded for its innovative approach to the building’s interior spaces, particularly the concert hall. The refurbished space now competes with the world’s premier auditoria. The judges commended the project for its adherence to the original design ethos of Jørn Utzon and Peter Hall while successfully integrating a new design aesthetic. 

The Australian Institute of Architects NSW Chapter president, Adam Haddow, remarked on the invaluable role of architects and architecture in shaping the state of NSW. He noted that the awarded projects encompass not just aesthetic appeal, but also evoke feelings of joy and delight. 

In the public architecture realm, the Art Gallery of NSW’s addition by SANAA with executive architect Architectus clinched the Sulman Medal. The expansion, named Sydney Modern, breaks away from traditional art experiences, offering an environment with flexible movement, heightened connections to its surroundings, and the capacity to house a diverse range of art.

Related: Bondi Pavilion Restoration by Tonkin Zulaikha Greer

The residential architecture category saw the emergence of a unique project by SJB. 19 Waterloo Street — a 69 square metre residence designed for a couple and their dog — impressed with its detailed and inventive design, leading to it securing The Wilkinson Award.

Meanwhile, one of the talking points of the night was the success of relative newcomers, SAHA. Its Lane Cove House was recognised, bagging The Hugh and Eva Buhrich Award for Residential Architecture — Houses (Alterations and Additions) and The Milo Dunphy Award for Sustainability. The project, designed for multigenerational living, displays an elevated architectural ambition and social benefits for its occupants. 

Having already been recognised internationally, Quay Quarter Tower by 3XN with executive architects BVN took away the Lord Mayor’s Prize as well as an award in the Commercial Architecture category. The Blacket Prize went to Goulburn Performing Arts Centre by Brewster Hjorth Architects, while this year’s Emerging Architect is Ben Peake.

Elsewhere, the COLORBOND Award for Steel Architecture was given to Mayoh Architects for Warren Integrated Stduies Hub. Tonkin Zulaikha Greer was recognised in a number of categories throughout the night, Public Architecture awards for the Art Gallery of NSW Library and Members Lounge and Bondi Pavilion. Cox Architecture also received an Interior Architecture Award for its very own Sydney studio.

The award-winning projects from the NSW Architecture Awards are now poised to compete in the upcoming National Architecture Awards program scheduled for October. Full details for all prizes, awards and commendations are available here.

Australian Institute of Architects
architecture.com.au

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