One of North Sydney's best-known commercial buildings could become hundreds of new homes, with insurance giant Zurich Australia lodging a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) to transform 5 Blue Street into a mixed-use residential development above North Sydney Station.

Rather than demolishing the existing building and starting again, Zurich is proposing an adaptive reuse project that would convert the landmark office building into a 15-level residential development delivering 62 apartments, 86 affordable co-living dwellings, activated retail and significant upgrades to the Blue Street Plaza.

The proposal reflects a growing trend of commercial property owners repositioning ageing office assets into residential housing as Sydney grapples with housing supply shortages and changing workplace demand.

<img alt="Zurich" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0bba7d12-06dc-4375-aad7-238c94b21ac5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-22%20at%2010.42.05%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=NJl5oLAEBDGuPmY3RnyliKODjMc8lvRh" />

Located directly above North Sydney Metro and train station, the 3,051 sqm site occupies one of the most strategically positioned parcels of land on Sydney's Lower North Shore.

Designed by fjcstudio, the proposal seeks to retain and adapt much of the existing structure while creating a contemporary residential address that better connects with the public domain surrounding North Sydney Station.

The application proposes two basement levels, ground floor retail, affordable co-living accommodation across the podium levels, and apartments above, while preserving and enhancing the publicly accessible Blue Street Plaza.

Rather than pursuing maximum apartment numbers, Zurich has opted for a housing mix heavily weighted towards larger owner-occupier residences.

The proposal includes 62 build-to-sell apartments comprising 12 one-bedroom, 19 two-bedroom, 29 three-bedroom apartments and two premium penthouses. It also incorporates 86 affordable co-living dwellings, which would be managed in perpetuity by a Community Housing Provider.

That balance between traditional apartments and affordable housing reflects the NSW Government's push to increase housing diversity around major transport infrastructure.

The proposal has been lodged concurrently with a rezoning application, with Zurich arguing the site is ideally positioned to support additional housing given its immediate proximity to public transport, employment and services.

"The proposal aims to respond to the housing challenges facing Sydney through the delivery of diverse housing types in a highly accessible location," the design report by fjcstudio states. It also seeks to improve pedestrian amenity through upgrades to Blue Street Plaza while creating a high-performing residential building that responds to the surrounding context.

<img alt="Zurich" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="36082e15-c636-4481-bb68-5a5f6443fe39" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-22%20at%2010.41.36%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=5P6VD.fvmqjQfIG3TWWMRXxQWiQBjeFB" />

Rather than replacing the commercial building, fjcstudio has developed a design that works with the existing structural framework above the rail corridor, an approach that significantly reduces demolition while allowing the site to be repositioned as a mixed-use residential precinct.

The existing structural constraints have informed much of the building's design, including its relationship with Blue Street and surrounding public spaces.

The building has been designed as a slender tower rising above a clearly defined podium, with vertically expressed façades intended to reduce the perceived bulk while reinforcing North Sydney's emerging skyline.

According to fjcstudio, the architectural language responds directly to the surrounding commercial towers while maintaining a finer grain expression more closely aligned with the neighbouring Lavender Bay streetscape.

The tower incorporates articulated façade elements, landscaped podium edges and recessed upper levels to soften its appearance and improve pedestrian amenity below.

A significant component of the proposal is the revitalisation of Blue Street Plaza.

The existing public space has long served as one of the primary pedestrian connections between North Sydney Station, Greenwood Plaza and Blue Street, yet its role is expected to become even more important following the opening of Sydney Metro.

Zurich's proposal seeks to strengthen that role by improving landscaping, introducing new retail frontages, enhancing pedestrian permeability and creating more active edges throughout the day and evening.

Ground floor retail would wrap the plaza, while separate residential and co-living entries have been designed to improve wayfinding without reducing street activation.

Landscape design has been integrated throughout the podium and public realm, softening what is currently one of the most heavily urbanised parts of North Sydney.

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fjcstudio has carefully oriented apartments towards Sydney Harbour and the CBD while using privacy blades and articulated façades to minimise overlooking between neighbouring buildings.

Large framed openings along the western elevation maximise harbour outlooks, while the eastern apartments have been angled towards the south-east to improve privacy from neighbouring development.

The project forms part of the continuing transformation of North Sydney from a predominantly commercial CBD into a genuine mixed-use city centre.

Since the completion of Victoria Cross Metro Station, developers have increasingly shifted their attention towards residential projects capable of leveraging the area's unparalleled transport connectivity.

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FiveX recently lodged plans for a 61-storey, 490-apartment tower that would become one of the tallest residential buildings in North Sydney if approved.

Aqualand continues to expand its Lower North Shore presence following the completion of AURA on Walker Street and its recent St Leonards and Roseville proposals.

Developers are also progressing projects throughout Walker Street, Miller Street and the Victoria Cross precinct as demand for well-located owner-occupier apartments continues to strengthen.

Joel Robinson

First look: Zurich targets North Sydney office conversion with 148-unit proposal above Metro station

Busy developer Aqualand Prestige has formally taken the next step in its expansion across Sydney's Lower North Shore, lodging a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for its long-held Archer Street site in Chatswood.

The application covers <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/51-55-archer-street-chatswood-nsw-2067">51-55 Archer Street</a>, a 1,767 sqm amalgamated site on the eastern edge of the Chatswood CBD, where the developer is seeking approval for a 45-level mixed-use tower delivering 114 apartments, including a significant affordable housing component, alongside retail, commercial space and six basement levels of parking.

The SSDA marks the latest milestone for a project Aqualand has been quietly progressing over the past two years. The developer first secured the site for its Aqualand Prestige platform before undertaking an alternative design excellence process with PTW Architects, ultimately avoiding a formal design competition through the Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

The proposal has evolved considerably from Aqualand's original concept. The revised scheme has been designed around larger owner-occupier product, with an unusually high proportion of three and four-bedroom apartments, targeting the more affluent buyer profile, and downsizer, emerging across the North Shore.

<img alt="Archer St" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0171204c-5811-41b5-9b09-2335d1b7c3d0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-22%20at%208.52.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=6YTuxfq.puZo7k2wbfgemcO5K3QfXYGQ" />

The 114-apartment mix comprises six studios, 27 one-bedroom apartments, 18 two-bedroom apartments, 50 three-bedroom residences and 13 four-bedroom homes. A quarter of the building will be dedicated to affordable housing, well above the mandated 15 per cent&nbsp;

PTW has structured the building vertically, with affordable housing across levels one to six, premium apartments through levels seven to 31, duplex skyhomes on klevels 32 to 43, a penthouse on level 44, and a rooftop plant level above. Six basement levels will provide resident parking and servicing.

The tower is proposed to reach approximately 154 metres, placing it among a growing collection of residential high-rises transforming Chatswood's skyline.

Rather than competing purely on height, PTW says the design has been driven by creating a slimmer tower capable of delivering significantly larger apartments.

"The primary objective of this project was to create a distinctive building that stands out from the recently approved or built structures in the Chatswood area," the design report states, noting the structural efficiency allows greater investment into apartment quality and resident amenity.

Residents would have access to more than 450 sqm of communal open space including landscaped gardens, swimming pool, rooftop entertaining areas, fitness spaces, community gardens, children's play areas and barbecue facilities.

A major focus of the design has been the public domain.

The ground plane has been opened up through landscaped terraces inspired by Willoughby's sandstone ridges, with native planting, public seating, artwork, retail activation and a series of gathering spaces intended to soften what has traditionally been a hard commercial streetscape.

The landscape strategy references Blue Gum forests once common throughout the area, while incorporating Indigenous storytelling, public art and lighting installations to strengthen the connection to Country.

Chatswood has been one of Sydney's busiest apartment markets over the past 12 months, with a steady pipeline of both new project launches and fresh development applications.

Hyecorp recently launched Celine, a 122-apartment development just along Archer Street, while Changfa and Huirong Group are progressing The Anderson, an 84-apartment project on Anderson Street.

Develotek recently secured approval for a 101-apartment tower on Pacific Highway, while Tian An LFD received the green light for Hammond Greens, its apartment development on the edge of the Chatswood Bowling Club.

Commercial property developer FiveX is also making its move into the residential market. Last month it lodged plans for a 61-storey tower with 490 apartments, which, if approved, would become one of the tallest residential buildings in Chatswood.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-fivex-targets-chatswood-skyline-with-61-storey-tower-after-north-sydney-plans">First look: FiveX targets Chatswood skyline with 61-storey tower after North Sydney plans</a>

Aqualand is also expanding its development pipeline following the launch of its luxury residential brand, Aqualand Prestige. The developer has delivered a string of high-end apartment projects across Sydney's affluent suburbs over the past decade, most recently AURA by Aqualand on Walker Street in North Sydney.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=292863]

It has since quietly assembled its next wave of projects.

Earlier this year Aqualand launched Boronia in Roseville, a boutique 111-apartment development on Larkin Street. The project is one of the first significant apartment developments to launch in the suburb ahead of what is expected to become one of Sydney's most active new housing precincts under the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing reforms, which allow greater density around train stations.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152095 project_image_fid=373685]

The developer has also lodged plans for a two-tower, 413-apartment development on Herbert Street in nearby St Leonards, further strengthening its presence across the Lower North Shore.

Beyond that, Aqualand remains behind the final stage of Barangaroo, where plans will deliver a five-hectare mixed-use precinct comprising new homes, retail, hospitality and community facilities, alongside a new Metro entrance and more than two hectares of public open space, completing the Barangaroo precinct.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/central-barangaroo-development-takes-big-step-with-concept-proposal-approval">Central Barangaroo development takes big step with concept proposal approval</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-aqualand-joins-st-leonards-apartment-party">First look: Aqualand joins St Leonards apartment party</a> 
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First look: Aqualand pushes ahead with Chatswood apartment tower as SSDA lodged for Archer Street

Mass timber is becoming an increasingly popular construction material in apartment developments, but Adelaide developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/otello">Otello</a> is taking the approach a step further.

At its new <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flowe-bowden-18-gibson-street-bowden-sa-5007">Flowe Bowden</a> development, the exposed cross-laminated timber (CLT) structure isn't just about reducing the building's environmental footprint. It also forms the foundation of a broader wellness strategy, influencing everything from indoor air quality and natural materials to the way residents move through and experience the building.

The 115-apartment mixed-use development, designed by Melbourne-based architecture practice Fieldwork, will occupy a prominent island site opposite Bowden Village Reserve, combining one, two and three-bedroom apartments with retail and a dedicated wellness destination.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375528]

Wellness isn't confined to a gym or shared resident facility at Flowe. Instead, Fieldwork embedded the concept into the building itself.

The development has been split into two residential wings connected by a naturally ventilated central breezeway, replacing traditional enclosed corridors with open-air walkways that improve natural light, encourage cross ventilation and create more opportunities for neighbourly interaction.

"Rather than treating wellness as something that only happens on the ground floor, our response integrates it throughout the building, which led us to ask what it really means to design a healthy building," Fieldwork Director Quino Holland said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375531]

The building's architecture also reflects Bowden's industrial heritage. The lower podium references the area's historic brick and sandstone buildings, while the upper levels transition to exposed CLT, allowing the timber structure to become a defining feature throughout the apartments and shared spaces.

The use of mass timber sits alongside a range of sustainability initiatives, including a fully electric, gas-free design, rooftop solar and a targeted 5 Star Green Star rating.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375524]

Inside the residences, the focus remains on natural, durable materials. Blackbutt engineered timber flooring, exposed CLT ceilings, porcelain surfaces and warm timber joinery create a calming interior palette, while low-VOC finishes and responsibly sourced materials have been selected to improve indoor air quality.

Kitchens have been designed as the centrepiece of each apartment, featuring porcelain island benchtops, timber-look cabinetry and brushed steel tapware, with layouts that maximise natural light and ventilation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375530]

The more traditional interpretation of wellness comes in the form of Level Eleven, a two-storey wellness club spanning the ground floor, mezzanine and first floor.

The facility will include a gym, yoga and reformer Pilates studios, Finnish and infrared saunas, magnesium hot and cold plunge pools, and dedicated recovery spaces. Unlike many residential wellness facilities, Level Eleven will also operate commercially, allowing the broader Bowden community to access the venue while giving residents exclusive membership benefits.

The ground floor has also been designed around everyday living. A café overlooking Bowden Village Reserve will activate the street frontage, while a bike workshop with tool storage, co-working space and dog wash has been incorporated to support daily routines and encourage interaction between residents.

"Flowe brings together my two biggest passions, creating places and creating healthier lives," Otello founder Daniel Harris said.

"We wanted to create something Adelaide hasn't seen before, a genuinely healthy building, where the way you live is lifted without even trying."

Flowe is positioned directly opposite Bowden Village Reserve and within walking distance of Bowden Railway Station and the Adelaide Entertainment Centre, placing future residents just minutes from the Adelaide CBD while remaining connected to one of the city's most established urban renewal precincts.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152022]

Otello launches wellness-focused Flowe Bowden with Adelaide-first mass timber apartment design

Not all apartment amenities are immediately visible.

Swimming pools, gyms, rooftop terraces and residents' lounges have long featured on buyers' wishlists, but as the way Australians live has changed, so too have the features that make apartment living more convenient.

Increasingly, buyers are placing value on the practical aspects of day-to-day life. Fast internet, EV charging, secure bike storage, flexible workspaces and parcel management are becoming just as relevant as lifestyle amenities, reflecting changing habits and expectations.

Online shopping has been one of the biggest drivers of that shift.

Australians spent a record $82.6 billion shopping online in 2025, with almost one in every four retail dollars now spent digitally, making parcel deliveries a routine part of everyday life rather than an occasional convenience.

For apartment residents, however, receiving those deliveries isn't always straightforward.

Without someone home to accept a parcel, deliveries can be redirected to a nearby Post Office, left in building foyers or common areas, or require building management to temporarily store packages. As apartment living continues to grow across Australia's cities, parcel management has become an increasingly important consideration for both residents and developers.

Australia Post's Parcel Locker network is one response to that shift.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KPZ9j5FRdsQ?si=Qztc1dNP3ZvEIUhb" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Rather than relying on home delivery, eligible parcels can be directed to a nominated Parcel Locker, where they're securely stored until collected. Once a parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS and can retrieve it using a one-time code or QR code at a time that suits them.

The network has expanded to more than 1,500 locations nationwide, with Parcel Lockers positioned at Post Offices, shopping centres, supermarkets, transport hubs and, increasingly, within or alongside residential developments.

That growing presence reflects a broader change in how apartment buildings are being planned.

Developers are increasingly considering the operational side of apartment living alongside traditional lifestyle amenities. Just as secure mailrooms, bicycle storage and EV charging have become more common inclusions, parcel management is emerging as another feature that supports everyday convenience.

It also helps preserve the arrival experience within a building. Carefully designed lobbies and communal spaces can quickly become cluttered when deliveries accumulate, while secure parcel solutions reduce the likelihood of missed deliveries or parcels being left unattended.

For buyers comparing apartments, these everyday details are becoming part of the decision-making process.

Location, floorplans and finishes remain fundamental, but the features that simplify daily life are carrying greater weight than they once did. As online shopping continues to shape consumer behaviour, secure parcel delivery is increasingly becoming another amenity worth looking for.

Parcel delivery is joining the apartment amenity checklist

Inca Property Group has lodged a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for Dawn, a 53-apartment oceanfront development overlooking Mona Vale Beach.

The proposal, at 35-39 Darley Street East, would replace an existing 18-apartment strata building with a new owner-occupier-focused development comprising 53 two and three-bedroom apartments, including nine affordable built-to-rent residences delivered under the State's infill affordable housing scheme.

Positioned on a 2,679 sqm elevated site around 280 metres from Mona Vale Beach, the development has been designed to maximise panoramic ocean views while responding to the site's sloping topography.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/inca-property-group">Inca Property Group</a> Managing Director Josh Thompson said the State Significant pathway provided greater certainty for projects of this scale.

"This State Significant pathway gives the team real certainty to progress <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/dawn-35-39-darley-street-east-mona-vale-nsw-2103">Dawn</a> through to completion," Thompson said.

"It allows us to acquire a one-off site, design it carefully and deliver the right offering for the suburb, assessed by the NSW Government's planning department."

The project is one of the first developments in the area to be assessed under the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy, with the site sitting on the edge of the policy's designated inner area.

The proposal includes three basement levels providing 124 car spaces, alongside a range of resident amenities including a swimming pool, gym, sauna, wellness facilities and private plunge pools for selected ground-floor and penthouse apartments.

<img alt="Dawn" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fc1a1daf-0ce4-4f12-9076-b1fa553c7a91" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-21%20at%208.42.11%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4GZ9h.gpNkTljbxyAET8Jfhv51XUamDm" />

Thompson said Dawn had been designed specifically for owner-occupiers and downsizers, a buyer profile that has driven demand across Inca's recent Upper North Shore developments.

"The majority of buyers in our recent North Shore projects have been downsizers, and we are learning exactly what this market is looking for. Beyond the location itself, we have included resort-style amenities to deliver a genuine lifestyle offering," Thompson said.

Located within walking distance of Mona Vale Beach, the town centre, Mona Vale Golf Club and the Royal Motor Yacht Club, Dawn represents Inca's first Northern Beaches project following the sell-out of Tara on Park in Waitara and Ellis Residences, currently under construction in St Ives.

Construction will be undertaken by Inca's in-house construction arm, GOP Constructions.

Dawn is the latest major apartment proposal for Mona Vale, with the suburb emerging as one of the key beneficiaries of the NSW Government's new Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy.

New developer One Living, led by industry veteran Joseph Scuderi, recently secured a site on Mona Vale Road, on the border of Mona Vale and Pymble, where it is planning around 140 apartments.

IPM is also planning its third project in Mona Vale, significantly increasing the scale of its previous developments with an 82-apartment proposal at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/159-167-darley-street-west-mona-vale-nsw-2103">159-167 Darley Street West</a>, opposite Bayview Golf Course and less than 800 metres from Mona Vale town centre.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/one-living-enters-sydneys-new-apartment-market-with-northern-beaches-site-acquisition">One Living enters Sydney's new apartment market with Northern Beaches site acquisition</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-ipm-plans-third-mona-vale-project">First look: IPM plans third Mona Vale project</a>

First look: Inca eyes Mona Vale with State Significant DA for Dawn apartments

Awards

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Crown Group has won two industry awards for its residential and hotel development, Arc by Crown Group in Clarence Street, Sydney. 
It took out the international award, The Architecture MasterPrize last week, as well as Australia’s peak industry body’s, the HIA’s Best NSW Apartment Complex 2019, at a ceremony in Sydney on Saturday night.
The Architecture MasterPrize is one of the most comprehensive architecture prizes in the world and celebrates the best in design excellence and innovation of architectural, interior, and landscape design.
The Housing Industry Association (HIA) is the peak industry association for the Australian residential building sector and its awards recognise excellence in residential construction and design excellence.
Opened in late 2018, Arc by Crown Group was designed by internationally acclaimed Koichi Takada Architects.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/10/23/Arc%20by%20Crown%20Group_facade%20bricks.jpg" alt="">
The 25-story building located at 161 Clarence Street in Sydney’s heart, has a mix of 148 residential apartments, 73 serviced hotel apartments and luxurious five-star resort-style amenities.  
The heritage-inspired street level rustic brick arches and 59 white cathedral-like curved arches envelop the tower’s rooftop lounge and garden.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/10/23/Arc%20by%20Crown%20Group_Rooftop%20Facilites.jpg" alt="">
It is renowned for its ice-cave themed indoor swimming pool, spa, gym, and rooftop garden area with city views.  
At ground-level, Arc by Crown Group’s modern retail precinct is home to a dining and retail precinct that includes Michi Izakaya &amp; Ramen, Ministry of Coffee, Delicatessen by Pony Dining and Grew &amp; Co Fine Jewellery.
"This award recognised the unique and innovative design, as well as outstanding and extraordinaryworkmanship, of Arc by Crown Group, a global icon that pushes the boundaries and has set a new benchmark for architectural and design lobally,” Crown Group Chief Operating Officer Pierre Abrahamse said.
Arc by Crown Group has previously won a number of architecture awards for its innovative design features including the 2019 MBA’s best Commercial Pool and best Commercial spa, UDIA NSW Awards for Excellence 2019 commendation, 2019 Architizer A+Awards Residential - Multi Unit Housing - High Rise (16+ Floors) Jury Vote and Popular Choice Awards, 2018 Property Guru Best Condo Development and 2015 International Property Awards Best Residential Development Australia.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Arc by Crown Group in Sydney CBD wins HIA Best NSW apartment complex

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An ocean-front home with cantilevered wings has taken out two awards at the 2019 HIA-CSR Australian Housing Awards.
Four other NSW winners were recognised, including an apprentice who is looking to use his carpentry skills for humanitarian purposes.
This year’s award winners were unveiled before hundreds of industry leaders at the prestigious awards ceremony held as the final night of the HIA 2019 National Conference in Perth.
Bellevarde Constructions (pictured above) won the top award for the year – the 2019 HIA–CSR Australian Home of the Year, partnered by CSR Building Products and 2019 HIA Australian Custom Built Home, partnered by Stramit Building Products, for its Headland House on the NSW South Coast.
The home features a sharp angular facade clad twice in stone and zinc, and cantilevered to create a gravity-defying illusion.
The project makes the most of the magical views over the Pacific Ocean with 500 kilogram glass panels in the ‘storm-viewing room’.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/5/30/TDV%20Constructions.jpg" alt="">
TDV Constructions won 2019 HIA Australian Townhouse/Villa Development (pictured above), partnered by Brickworks Building Products, for a series of thoughtfully-designed, modern family-sized townhouses that offer incredible indoor/outdoor living areas for their occupants.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/5/30/kitchen.jpg" alt="">
Minosa won 2019 HIA Australian Kitchen Design (picture above), partnered by Winning Appliances, for a cleverly designed space that creates a versatile and bright culinary domain.
Fairmont Homes NSW won 2019 HIA Australian Professional MediumBuilder/Renovator, partnered by Companion Systems, for their impressive management and diversity across new home builds and renovations.
Thomas Payton won 2019 HIA Jim Brookes Australian Apprentice, partnered byStratco Australia, for his ‘can-do’ attitude and excellent work ethic. Thomas has a desire to use his carpentry skills to assist countries to rebuild after natural disasters.
HIA Managing Director Graham Wolfe said the HIA-CSR Australian Housing Awards recognise the best in Australia’s residential building industry.
“HIA is committed to recognising our members who excel in building exceptional homes, kitchens and bathrooms,” Wolfe said.
“These members are reaching the highest standards in workmanship, are innovative, and pushing the boundaries with design.
“We also recognise the professional builders and business partners who are ahead of the game in customer service and business practices.
“All winners and finalists are congratulated; having achieved one of the highest accolades and being recognised before their industry peers.”
The HIA-CSR Australian Housing Awards are the ultimate platform to showcase the talents of the nation’s top builders and designers.
Winners are selected from state-based finalists, with awards in 22 separate categories (see full list below).
2019 HIA-CSR Australian Housing Awards winners
<table>
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<col>
<col>
</colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
2019 HIA-CSR Australian Home of the Year
Partnered by CSR Building Products
</td>
<td>
Bellevarde Constructions
NSW
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
2019 HIA Australian Apartment of the Year Partnered by Toyota Fleet
</td>
<td>
Giorgi
Western Australia
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
2019 HIA Australian Townhouse/Villa of the Year Partnered by Holcim Australia
</td>
<td>
Rivergum Homes
South Australia
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
2019 HIA Australian Custom Built Home Partnered by Stramit Building Products
</td>
<td>
Bellevarde Constructions
NSW
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
2019 HIA Australian Display Home Partnered by ActronAir
</td>
<td>
Better Building Services, DNA Architects and Sugar DesignsACT &amp; Southern NSW
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
2019 HIA Australian Outdoor Project Partnered by James Hardie
</td>
<td>
Aria Property Group
Queensland
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
2019 HIA Australian Project Home Partnered by Liberty Reinforcing
</td>
<td>
Inspired Homes
Western Australia
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
2019 HIA Australian Renovation / Addition Project Partnered by COLORBOND steel
</td>
<td>
Cassari Group
Western Australia
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
2019 HIA Australian Spec Home Partnered by Stratco Australia
</td>
<td>
S Smith Builders
Victoria
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
2019 HIA Australian Specialised Housing Partnered by Merlin Garage Door Openers
</td>
<td>
Resonate Homes
Western Australia
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
2019 HIA Australian Apartment Complex Partnered by Beacon Lighting Commercial
</td>
<td>
Aria Property Group
Queensland
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
2019 HIA Australian Townhouse/Villa Development Partnered by Brickworks Building Products
</td>
<td>
TDV Constructions
NSW
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
2019 HIA Australian Bathroom of the Year Partnered by Caroma Industries
</td>
<td>
Lane Group
Tasmania
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
2019 HIA Australian Bathroom Design Partnered by Caroma Industries
</td>
<td>
Archertec Interiors
ACT &amp; Southern NSW
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
2019 HIA Australian Kitchen of the Year Partnered by Winning Appliances
</td>
<td>
Darren James Interiors
Queensland
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
2019 HIA Australian Kitchen Design Partnered by Winning Appliances
</td>
<td>
Minosa
NSW
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
2019 HIA Australian Professional Major Builder Partnered by Companion Systems
</td>
<td>
Porter Davis
Victoria
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
2019 HIA Australian Professional Medium Builder / Renovator Partnered by Companion Systems
</td>
<td>
Fairmont Homes NSW
NSW
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
2019 HIA Australian Professional Small Builder / Renovator Partnered by Companion Systems
</td>
<td>
Ultimo Constructions
Western Australia
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
2019 HIA Jim Brookes Australian Apprentice Partnered by Stratco Australia
</td>
<td>
Thomas Payton
NSW
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
2019 HIA Australian Business Partner Partnered by B&amp;D Doors and Openers
</td>
<td>
Bec Hopper
P.A.H. Innovative Construction ACT &amp; Southern NSW
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
2019 HIA-CSR Australian People’s Choice Home Partnered by CSR Building Products
</td>
<td>
Brendan Grant Master Builders
North Queensland
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
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Six NSW entrants win at HIA national housing awards

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The 2019 ACT Architecture Awards’ top prize has been won by a contemporary extension to an inner-south bungalow.
The prestigious Canberra Medallion was presented to Austin Maynard Architects for the Empire house (pictured above).
Minister for Planning and Land Management Mick Gentleman handed over the award.
The project also won the Gene Willsford Award for  Residential Architecture – Houses (Alterations and Additions).
Australian Institute of Architects ACT Jury Chair, Sarah Truscott, said the project displayed an understanding of the building’s heritage.
"Empire is located on a road that forms a key part of Burley Griffin’s masterplan,” said Truscott.
“The architects have shown respect for Canberra’s built heritage by preserving the best of this home and creating smart additional living spaces inside and out for all seasons."
Other major winners include Edgeworth Apartments, which won the Sydney Ancher Award for Residential Architecture – Multiple Housing for Cox Architecture, and the Concrete House by Rob Henry Architects won the Malcolm Moir and Heather Sutherland Award for Residential Architecture – Houses (New).
Clarke Keller and dwp|design worldwide partnership received the Enrico Taglietti Award for Educational Architecture for their work on ANU’s Hanna Neumann Building. The building also won the W Hayward Morris Award for Interior Architecture and the Pamille Berg Award for Art in Architecture.
"This new building brings together ANU’s Mathematical Sciences Institute and Computer Science in a new teaching and research hub. Embedded coding in the façade and interior details create a series of mathematical puzzles for students to decipher as they work their way up the building with the most complex on the top level," Truscott said.
A total of 30 Named Awards, Awards and Commendations were presented on the night.
ACT Chapter President, Philip Leeson, said: “This year’s awards saw 37 entries ranging from small alterations and additions to large public commercial buildings and institutions.
“Each year our awards showcase the extraordinary talent of the architecture profession and the outstanding buildings it produces and this year is no exception.
“The architects and their projects recognised by this year’s jury will enter the canon of great architecture that has contributed to the city of Canberra that we love.”
Named Award and Award winners will now progress to the National Architecture Awards to be announced on Thursday 7 November 2019. 
Full list of winners: 
<ul>
<li>Residential Architecture – Houses (Alterations and Additions) </li>
</ul>
The Gene Willsford Award – Empire by Austin Maynard Architects
Award – Yarralumla Shed by Gerard O’Connell (pictured below)
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/6/13/Yarralumla%20Shed.jpg" alt=""> 
<ul>
<li>Residential Architecture – Houses (New) </li>
</ul>
The Malcolm Moir and Heather Sutherland Award – Concrete House by Rob Henry Architects (pictured below) 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/6/13/concrete%20house.jpg" alt="">
Award – Red Hill House by Mathieson Architects
Award – Courtyard House by Rob Henry Architects
Commendation – Carwoola House by de Rome Architects
<ul>
<li>Residential Architecture – Multiple Housing </li>
</ul>
The Sydney Ancher Award – Edgeworth Apartments by Cox Architecture
Commendation – Shophouse by JUDD.studio
Commendation – Warehouse by JUDD.studio
<ul>
<li>Commercial Architecture</li>
</ul>
Commendation – Manuka Oval Media and Function Centre
<ul>
<li>Interior Architecture </li>
</ul>
The W Hayward Morris Award – ANU Hanna Neumann Building by Clarke Keller and dwp|design worldwide partnership
Commendation – Denman Village Shops by AMC Architecture (pictured below)
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/6/13/denman%20village.jpg" alt=""> 
<ul>
<li>Educational Architecture</li>
</ul>
The Enrico Taglietti Award – ANU Hanna Neumann Building by Clarke Keller and dwp|design worldwide partnership
Award – CGGS Early Learning Centre by Daryl Jackson Alastair Swayn
<ul>
<li>Public Architecture</li>
</ul>
Commendation – Cricket ACT by Clarke Keller
<ul>
<li>Small Project Architecture </li>
</ul>
The Cynthia Breheny Award – Charly_Demonstrator by Stack Space
<ul>
<li>Sustainable Architecture </li>
</ul>
The Derek Wrigley Award – CGGS Early Learning Centre by Daryl Jackson Alastair Swayn
Award – Courtyard House by Rob Henry Architects
<ul>
<li>Enduring Architecture </li>
</ul>
The Sir Roy Grounds Award – Wybalena Grove (1974) by Michael Dysart 
<ul>
<li>COLORBOND® Award for Steel Architecture </li>
</ul>
Award – Shophouse by JUDD.studio
<ul>
<li>Chapter Awards and Prizes </li>
</ul>
Canberra Medallion – Empire by Austin Maynard Architects
The Pamille Berg Award for Art in Architecture –ANU Hanna Neumann Building by Clarke Keller and dwp|design worldwide partnership
The Robert Foster Award for Light in Architecture – Red Hill House by Mathieson Architects
Architectural Professional Practice Award – Eric Martin, Eric Martin &amp; Associates
President’s Medal – Paul Barnett, Paul Barnett Design Group
Clem Cummings Medal – Jenny Edwards, Lighthouse Architecture &amp; Science
Emerging Architect Prize – Will Gardner, Guida Moseley Brown Architects
ACT Chapter Student Medallion – Byron Kelly, University of Canberra
Daryl Jackson Alastair Swayn Graduate Prize – Mark Bersolto, University of Canberra
John Redmond Prize – Justin Williams, University of Canberra
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Empire take out top prize at ACT Architecture Awards

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Australia’s first engineered timber office, International House Sydney, has picked up NSW’s top property award.
Lendlease was presented with the Property Council of Australia’s Rider Levett Bucknall NSW Development of the Year award. 
“International House demonstrates that mass timber construction is a viable alternative to conventional construction and stands as a beacon of innovation and sustainable design excellence,” says the Property Council’s NSW Executive Director Jane Fitzgerald.
Designed by Tzannes architects and completed in April 2017, International House Sydney stands six storeys high. Each floor was constructed entirely from cross-laminated timber and glue-laminated timber, including floors, columns, walls, roof, lift shafts and stairs. The timber structure is supported by a ground retail level of conventional concrete. 
The building delivers an open, flexible floorplate, with a total floor space of 7,000 square metres and a striking design featuring recycled hardwood colonnades and an exposed timber structure. 
Timber is around 30% lighter than concrete or steel, potentially cutting crane, scaffolding and foundation costs. Economic modelling undertaken by Forest and Wood Products Australia has found timber construction can cut schedules by 15%. Engineered timber also has a carbon footprint up to 60% lower than other materials such as concrete and steel. 
“The well-documented health and sustainability benefits of using timber in the built environment have contributed substantially to its market appeal, securing a single, well-known financial services tenant for the entire building,” Fitzgerald adds. 
Fitzgerald also applauds International House’s “outstanding green credentials”, including a 6 Star Green Star rating.
“Around 3,500 cubic metres of sustainably-grown and recycled timber was used in construction, which saved thousands of tonnes of carbon emissions by cutting down on concrete. The use of natural materials makes International House a warm and welcoming building that also promotes an innovative approach to sustainable growth,” Fitzgerald adds.
Lendlease also took home the RLB NSW Development of the Year award in 2018 for Barangaroo South.
“Lendlease has set an ambitious carbon-neutral goal for the entire Barangaroo South precinct, and International House Sydney contributes to this goal while also showcasingour industry’s contribution to a low-carbon future,” Fitzgerald adds.
The NSW Development of the Year award is part of the national 2019 Property Council of Australia / Rider Levett Bucknall Innovation and Excellence Awards program. RLB has partnered with the Property Council to present the awards program since its inception in 1982. 
International House is vying for the SAS International Award for Best Office Development and the WSP Award for Best Sustainable Development – New Buildings at the national awards, which will be held at the International Convention Centre Sydney on Friday 17 May.
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Barangaroo South's International House Sydney wins NSW’s top property honour

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Burbank Homes has secured an accolade at the recent 2018 at the Master Builders Association New South Wales Excellence in Housing Awards.
The homebuilder secured the best ‘Exhibition/Project Home’ in the $400,001 - $500,000 price category for its Denman 257 display home in Googong.
Denman 257 offers 256 square metre properties priced from $400,001.
The Burbank Group Managing Director, Jarrod Sanfilippo, said the group was proud to be recognized for its work by its peers.
“We entered the New South Wales homebuilding market in 2016, building on our success in Victoria and Queensland, and have seen a strong response to our innovative home designs, particularly with first and second homebuyers,” said Sanfilippo.
“We are one of the only major homebuilders in NSW with a sloping lot design on display and this has proved to be popular as customers want to see what the design looks like first hand when embarking on challenging home builds.”
The Denman 257 display home is open at the Googong estate, Leon Street, Googong, New South Wales between 12pm – 5pm Monday to Friday and 11am – 5pm on weekends.
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Burbank Homes wins MBA of NSW award for Googong display home 

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<div>Ray White Group’s Brett Diston has been announced as Commercial Salesperson of the Year 2018 for the fifth time at the Real Estate Institute of Victoria (REIV) Awards for Excellence.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The awards showcase the best of the property industry as well as leading real estate agency practices and professionals.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>As Director of the Ray White Commercial Nunawading office in Victoria, Mr Diston (pictured) oversaw 79 transactions in the 2017/18 financial year.</div>
<div> </div>
<div><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/10/29/Brett%20Diston%202.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div> </div>
<div>Ray White Commercial’s Head of Agency Operations Michael McCullagh said Mr Diston is an inspiration and he was delighted his hard work had been recognised again.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>“To be named Salesperson of the Year once is a real achievement, but the fact this is the fifth time for Brett, it’s a true testament to how much effort he puts in on a daily basis,” Mr McCullagh said.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Mr Diston said it was an honour to take home the prestigious award for the fifth time in the last six years.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>“I’m proud to be named REIV’s Commercial Sales Person of the Year for a fifth time, but I can’t take all of the credit, I’m humbled to have such a great Ray White Commercial team around me,” he said.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>REIV President Robyn Waters congratulated Mr Diston for winning the award.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>“The Real Estate Institute of Victoria has a strong focus on excellence and we believe that these high standards, which make the difference in our real estate industry, should be acknowledged and celebrated,” Ms Waters said.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>“Brett took out the Commercial Salesperson of the Year Award which is a remarkable achievement in this competitive environment. Brett should be extremely proud of winning this coveted category.''</div>
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Ray White director wins REIV Commercial Salesperson of the Year

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Di Jones general manager Kylie Walsh has been named as a finalist in the Most Influential Woman in Property category at the 2018 Annual REA Excellence Awards.
The awards, at The Star in Sydney, are to be held next month.
Walsh is up for the award alongside McGrath Caloundra principal Jodie Hedley-Ward (below), who has been recognized as one of the top 10 highest achieving women in McGrath for the first half of 2018.
Among the other nominees for the award are Laing+Simmons Leanne Pilkington, Black Diamondz Property agent Monika Tu and Sadhana Smiles at Harcourts Victoria.
Di Jones CEO Rob Ward said the calibre of the finalists featured in the category and is pleased to see Kylie's contribution to the industry acknowledged.
"Kylie's dedication and commitment to the real estate profession is exceptional, and it is a true testament to her ability and character that she has been recognised as a finalist," Ward said.
Walsh is responsible for increasing management's effectiveness by recruiting, selecting, orienting and training managers. She also spearheads Di Jones' strategic plans to ensure company profitability.
Ward said Walsh has been instrumental in the agency's recent expansion success and works tirelessly to ensure Di Jones continues to thrive. 
 <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/10/26/Hedley-Ward.jpg" alt="">
“I was humbled to be named the top Queensland female agent for the 2018 financial year recently and I believe that learning from others in our phenomenal McGrath network has been instrumental in my career up until this point," Hedley-Ward said.
"I absolutely love learning new distinctions and strategies that can help take my team and everyone at our McGrath Caloundra office to the next level.”
McGrath Caloundra recently donated $100,000 to almost 100 not-for-profit organisations since the start of 2017 as part of its Community Giveback Program.
The Community Giveback program involves a $500 donation at settlement to a not- for-profit, school or sporting organisation that the client nominates. Along with the monetary donations, the team also donates their time, going over and above for causes close to their heart. 
On the award nomination, Hedley-Ward said she is thrilled to be flying the flag for Queensland.
“I am honoured to be a finalist in this year’s AREAS and really want to acknowledge the incredible team I have at McGrath Caloundra who all share my intense passion for linking commerce with our Community Giveback program, which is at the heart of everything we do," she said.
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<div class="column">
Jodie was also the 2017 Sunshine Coast Corporate Businesswoman of the Year and has coveted numerous awards since opening McGrath Caloundra with her husband David Hedley-Ward in 2016.
 
 
</div>
</div>
</div>
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Di Jones general manager Kylie Walsh finalist for Most Influential Woman in Property

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National builder Vaughan Constructions has won the prestigious industry award, the Master Builder of the Year Award at the recent Master Builders Association Victoria Awards.
The awards, which showcase exceptional craftsmanship and standards of excellence in the commercial building sector, also honoured Vaughan with the award for <a href="https://www.mbav.com.au/2018-excellence-construction-awards">Excellence in Construction of Industrial Buildings</a> for its work on the $165 million Dulux Merrifield Coatings Plant at Mickleham.
Vaughan Constructions Director Mark Byrne said superior ECI project methodology works with the client to achieve the best possible outcome.  
He said ECI (Early Contractor Involvement) meant utilising the builder’s expertise as early as possible in the development process to maximise both cost and operational efficiencies in the design and construction of a building.
"There’s no greater disaster for a client than getting the design they want but one they can’t afford or that ultimately doesn’t meet the desired outcome,’’ Byrne said. 
Vaughan Constructions was engaged under an ECI agreement to complete the base build of Dulux Merrifield (pictured above), a task which was expanded as the project’s design and implementation progressed to also take on responsibility for the completion of the production process fitout.
Dulux Group Project Director, Kevin Worrell, said Vaughan Constructions had completed both the base build and integrated fitout of the Dulux facility which is now the largest coatings factory in Australia and New Zealand. 
Master Builders Victoria CEO, Radley de Silva, praised Vaughan for the Dulux building’s complexity and its ability to remain durable in a harsh, chemical-based environment. 
Vaughan Constructions will now compete at the Master Builders Association National Excellence in Building and Construction Awards at the Adelaide Convention Centre in November. 
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Vaughan Constructions named Master Builder of the Year

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In keeping with Apartments.com.au's awards theme over the last two weeks, Woods Bagot last week announced that seven of its projects had been shortlisted finalists in this year's World Architecture Festival (WAF) Awards program and its sister program, the INSIDE World Festival of Interiors.

The WAF Awards are the world’s largest, live architectural award, combining keynote presentations from leading international figures alongside live judging presentations from over 400 award finalists.

Woods Bagot’s project shortlist comprises three future projects and four completed buildings. The six shortlisted WAF projects are:

<ul>
<li>Younghusband Woolstore Development, Melbourne</li>
	<li>Melbourne Innovation Precinct, Melbourne</li>
	<li>Elwood House, Melbourne </li>
	<li>Short Lane, Sydney </li>
	<li>St Mary’s Calne School Library, London; and</li>
	<li>Sunshine Insurance Plaza, Beijing</li>
</ul>
While West Hotel, Sydney in conjunction with Fitzpatrick + Partners is shortlisted in the INSIDE World of Interiors Awards.

Selected from a record number of entries, WAF's 536-strong shortlist includes projects from 81 countries across 39 prizes and categories.

<blockquote>
Being a multi-project finalist at WAF affirms Woods Bagot's place on the international stage. It’s immensely gratifying as a global studio to now present these projects to the exceptional talent of our national and international peers.

- Domenic Alvaro, Woods Bagot Global Design Leader
</blockquote>

Woods Bagot will present each shortlisted project to judges in a series of live events at the festival in Amsterdam, 28 to 30 November. The awards will be decided by over 130 judges from more than 35 countries.

More info on the shortlisted projects is available below:

<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=https://www.woodsbagot.com/projects/younghusband&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1530575430547000&amp;usg=AFQjCNH68YWKIqqKOQV8BZ8K3qb-8r4SfQ" href="https://www.woodsbagot.com/projects/younghusband" target="_blank">Younghusband Woolstore Development</a>, Melbourne

Category: Commercial Mixed Use – Future Project

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/130430_n5_screenhd_yh.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Younghusband Woolstore. Image: Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="478" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/130430_n5_screenhd_yh.jpg?itok=TeRCLwPs" title="Younghusband Woolstore. Image: Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Younghusband Woolstore. Image: Supplied</figcaption></figure>Younghusband transforms a former 100-year-old wool factory in Melbourne’s inner-west into a community-focused commercial site. Co-working, education, food, retail and wellness spaces have been woven into the buildings diverse spaces, allowed to co-exist thanks to modifications made in the floor plate to bring light into previously unlit spaces and to create connections through the spaces for the movement of air and people.

<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=https://www.woodsbagot.com/news/plans-for-melbourne-s-new-innovation-precinct-approved-by-victorian-government&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1530575430547000&amp;usg=AFQjCNEfiKcyFaUWAyShWKhmUhVtKntKFg" href="https://www.woodsbagot.com/news/plans-for-melbourne-s-new-innovation-precinct-approved-by-victorian-government" target="_blank">Melbourne Innovation Precinct</a>, Melbourne

Category: Commercial Mixed Use – Future Project

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/130395_n19_screenhd_mip.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Melbourne Innovation Precinct. Image: Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="437" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/130395_n19_screenhd_mip.jpg?itok=IZlq-95E" title="Melbourne Innovation Precinct. Image: Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Melbourne Innovation Precinct. Image: Supplied</figcaption></figure>The Melbourne Innovation Precinct seeks to establish Australia’s leading campus-centred, multi-disciplinary innovation precinct where university, industry, government, entrepreneurs and researchers co-locate and collaborate to enhance Australia’s innovation, productivity and sustainability agendas. Situated on the corner of Swanston and Grattan Streets in Carlton at the site of the former Royal Women’s Hospital, the precinct is the main ‘gateway’ vista into the Melbourne Innovation District, announcing its bold ambitions.

<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=https://www.woodsbagot.com/projects/sunshine-sanya&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1530575430547000&amp;usg=AFQjCNGAo-Scx8V3MorSMD3GsBedGTEXPg" href="https://www.woodsbagot.com/projects/sunshine-sanya" target="_blank">Sunshine Insurance Plaza</a>, Beijing

Category: Mixed Use – Completed Buildings

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/320028_n589_screenhd_sunshine.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Sunshine Inusrance Plaza. Image: Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="410" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/320028_n589_screenhd_sunshine.jpg?itok=bibvhd5F" title="Sunshine Inusrance Plaza. Image: Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Sunshine Insurance Plaza. Image: Supplied</figcaption></figure>Inspired by a string of pearls, Sunshine Insurance Finance Plaza provides a soaring new addition to Sanya Bay’s rising skyline. Located at the southern tip of China’s Hainan Island, the mixed-use development features a 35-storey tower above a tiered retail podium and lush gardens. The tower comprises A-grade offices, a 4-star Park Hyatt Hotel, a private clubhouse and a rooftop pool.

<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=https://www.woodsbagot.com/projects/elwood-house&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1530575430547000&amp;usg=AFQjCNEgwn_nTW4j82HdP1l4yjJr4pmzYw" href="https://www.woodsbagot.com/projects/elwood-house" target="_blank">Elwood House</a>, Melbourne

Category: Small Scale Housing – Completed Buildings

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/130148_n21_screenhd_elwood_3_shannon_mcgrath.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Elwood house. Image: Shannon McGrath"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/130148_n21_screenhd_elwood_3_shannon_mcgrath.jpg?itok=XQy_3MNd" title="Elwood house. Image: Shannon McGrath" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Elwood house. Image: Shannon McGrath</figcaption></figure>With 30 finely crafted residences, Elwood House challenges the genre of medium density residential against the values of community and gathering, neighbourhood texture and scale, memorial to its past, and owner experience. Reflecting the local grain and scale of its beachside village, the development evolves the location’s heritage into a more refined solution for the area that transforms the typically low-scale residential language of the area into a modern interpretation of multi-residential living.

<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=https://www.woodsbagot.com/projects/short-lane&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1530575430547000&amp;usg=AFQjCNGWS0Tz0B5xyXcHfGv3pYXEJA-U9w" href="https://www.woodsbagot.com/projects/short-lane" target="_blank">Short Lane</a>, Sydney                                                             

Category: Small Scale Housing – Completed Buildings

Conceived as an urban garden, Short Lane is an undertaking in providing humans with a connection to nature in a dense, inner-urban setting that lacks greenery. The mixed-use development retains the diversity of its local neighbourhood and creates places for more of it to happen – with new botanical spaces, walkable laneways and venues for local participation.

<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=http://architectnews.co.uk/2018/03/13/woods-bagot-receives-planning-permission-pioneering-school-library-wiltshire/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1530575430547000&amp;usg=AFQjCNGQR5JpDaHYJJ8BN0M9aZ-WG4RRgw" href="http://architectnews.co.uk/2018/03/13/woods-bagot-receives-planning-permission-pioneering-school-library-wiltshire/" target="_blank">St Mary’s Calne School Library</a>, London

Category: Education – Future Project

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/15905_st_marys.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="St Mary's Calne School Library. Image: Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="319" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/15905_st_marys.jpg?itok=qTcJjZDv" title="St Mary's Calne School Library. Image: Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>St Mary's Calne School Library. Image: Supplied</figcaption></figure>With a vision to design an inspiring academic environment which fosters a love of learning, creativity, debate and scholarship in its pupils, the St Mary’s Calne School Library is a rich, academic haven. Designed as a stand-alone pavilion, the library is at the heart of the school. The building layers from solidity to lightness and from internal to external, creating a sense of arrival and then discovery, culminating in framed views of the orchard beyond.

<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=https://www.woodsbagot.com/projects/west-hotel&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1530575430547000&amp;usg=AFQjCNHCvpO6TN_ghuDrdFWUCgEWPaONfg" href="https://www.woodsbagot.com/projects/west-hotel" target="_blank">West Hotel</a>, Sydney (Woods Bagot and Fitzpatrick + Partners)

Category: Hotels (Inside World Festival of Interiors Awards)

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/120904_n42_screenhd_west_hotel_2_felix_forest.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="West Hotel. Image: Felix Forest"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/120904_n42_screenhd_west_hotel_2_felix_forest.jpg?itok=c_YPPR41" title="West Hotel. Image: Felix Forest" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>West Hotel. Image: Felix Forest</figcaption></figure>West Hotel, Curio by Hilton, is a botanical oasis nestled in the heart of Sydney on an iconic street that is going through a period of renewal due to its proximity to near the city’s newest precinct, Barangaroo.Wedged between an office building and an old Sydney heritage pub, the faceted glass box is an escape from the city. The restaurant, bar, rooms all surround a sunlit, jungle-like atrium within. Woods Bagot has used the crystal-like façade of the base building by Fitzpatrick and Partners as the reference point for the interior design.

Lead Image: Short Lane, Trevor Mein
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Laurence Dragomir

Woods Bagot's seven shortlisted for WAF and INSIDE Awards

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With more than half of Melbourne's architecture fraternity currently overseas to see <a href="http://wp.architecture.com.au/venicebiennale/">Baracco + Wright &amp; Linda Tegg's exhibition</a> at the Australian Pavilion for the Venice Biennale, the announcement of the shortlist for the 2018 Victorian Architecture Awards took a slight backseat to social media (boasts) posts all over Venice.

The 2018 awards program, run by the Victorian Chapter of the Australian Institute of Architects, saw a record 268 entries received, with the shortlist comprising a total of 108 projects across 14 categories ranging from residential to public, commercial and educational architecture.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/bunjil_place_exterior_-_fjmt_photo_glenn_hester.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Bunjil Place by FJMT. Photo: Glenn Hester"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="189" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/bunjil_place_exterior_-_fjmt_photo_glenn_hester.jpg?itok=wiLpTSQr" title="Bunjil Place by FJMT. Photo: Glenn Hester" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Bunjil Place by FJMT. Photo: Glenn Hester</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
Truly exceptional architecture has the power to improve how people experience life, both in their own private spaces and in the public realm. As reflected in this year’s awards, it’s been a significant year for architecture.

In Victoria we have a rich and ingrained culture supporting strong and diverse architectural endeavours. It is always so encouraging to see architects continuing to challenge the status quo in order for our cities and communities to evolve.

This shortlist defines the many forms outstanding design can take, from projects that provide innovative educational spaces offering varying ways for students to learn and engage, to new housing typologies that create a platform for better community engagement.

The common denominator in successful projects is supportive and engaged clients who acknowledge the value that quality architecture interventions can bring to building strong and successful communities.

Carefully considered buildings, urban design interventions and infrastructure projects can take many years to procure. The awards program is an opportunity to celebrate the passionate and cohesive teams of architects, clients, consultants and builders who bring them to fruition.

- Amy Muir, Victorian Chapter President
</blockquote>

The most significant themes to emerge from this year’s shortlist were the emphasis on the importance of the public realm and the far-reaching contribution that architecture makes to daily life.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/atrium_of_holy_agels_mausoleum_-_harmer_architecture_photo_jonathan_hadiprawira.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Atrium of Holy Angels Mausoleum by Harmer Architecture. Photo: Jonathon Hadiprawira"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="385" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/atrium_of_holy_agels_mausoleum_-_harmer_architecture_photo_jonathan_hadiprawira.jpg?itok=KT5kVK-h" title="Atrium of Holy Angels Mausoleum by Harmer Architecture. Photo: Jonathon Hadiprawira" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Atrium of Holy Angels Mausoleum by Harmer Architecture. Photo: Jonathon Hadiprawira</figcaption></figure><h2>2018 Victorian Architecture Awards Shortlist </h2>

Residential Architecture – Houses (New) 27 entries / 16 shortlisted projects 

Tucks Ridge House - Adrian Bonomi Architect | Moonah Home - Bellemo &amp; Cat | Shrouded House - BKK Architects | Humble House - Coy Yiontis Architects | DATUM HOUSE - FIGR Architecture | Park House -  Kerstin Thompson Architects Compound House - March Studio | Triangle House - Molecule Studio | Two Halves - Moloney Architects | Ross - Ola Studio | First Lessons House - Ray Dinh Architecture | House on the Coast - Sean Godsell Architects | Lauriston House - Seeley Architects | Bellerine Pavilion House - Tecture Architecture &amp; Interior Design | Matilda - Templeton Architecture | Towers Road House - Wood Marsh Architecture

Residential Architecture – Multiple Housing 25 entries / 9 shortlisted projects 

35 Spring Street - Bates Smart | Nightingale 1 - Breathe Architecture | Campbell Street - DKO Architecture and SLAB | Parkville Townhouses - Fieldwork | McAuley Community Services for Women - Hede Architects Pty Ltd | Averi - Jackson Clements Burrows | Banksia, NewQuay - McBride Charles Ryan | Elwood House - Woods Bagot | C.F. Row - Woods Bagot

Residential Architecture – Houses (Alterations &amp; Additions) 50 entries/ 11 shortlisted projects 

Hatherlie - Andrew Simpson Architects | The Kite - Architecture Architecture | King Bill - Austin Maynard Architects | St Vincents Place Residence - B.E Architecture | Old Be-al - FMD Architects pty ltd | Boneo Country House - John Wardle Architects | Dark Light House - MRTN Architects | Highbury Grove - RITZ&amp;GHOUGASSIAN |Station Street House - Robert Simeoni Architects | Fawkner Street - Workshop Architecture | Tiger Prawn - WOWOWA Architecture

Small Project Architecture 30 entries / 8 shortlisted projects 

Sound Field - BLOXAS with Arup | Campbell Street - DKO Architecture and SLAB | Gertrude Contemporary - Edition Office | Multipurpose Centre - Kosloff Architecture | Garden Wall (NGV Architecture Commission) - Retallack Thompson and Other Architects | Elgin Street Residence - Sonelo Design Studio | Koondrook Wharf - TERROIR | Sorrento Visitor Centre - Workshop Architecture

Urban Design 14 entries /5 shortlisted projects 

Monash Transport Interchange - John Wardle Architects | New Academic Street, RMIT University - Lyons with NMBW Architecture Studio, Harrison and White, MvS Architects and Maddison Architects | Caribbean Park, Public Realm Stage 1 and 2 - Peter Ryan Architects with OCULUS Landscape Architecture and Urban Design | Koondrook Wharf - TERROIR | Deakin Link - watsonarchitecture+design

Heritage Architecture 14 entries / 8 shortlisted projects 

St Vincents Place Residence - B.E Architecture | James Street Residence - B.E Architecture | Carlton Court House - HLCD Pty Ltd with Somerville Design | Longsong - Jackson Clements Burrows with John van Haandel | Elberfeld House - Jane Riddell Architects | Victorian College of the Arts former Mounted Police Stables - Kerstin Thompson Architects | North Melbourne Terrace - Matt Gibson Architecture + Design | 'Cassiope' alterations &amp; additions - RBA Architects + Conservation Consultants

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/entry-mrnlbpwx-649202.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Victorian College of the Arts former Mounted Police Stables by Kerstin Thompson Architects. Photo: Trevor Mein "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/entry-mrnlbpwx-649202.jpg?itok=7AYYA9so" title="Victorian College of the Arts former Mounted Police Stables by Kerstin Thompson Architects. Photo: Trevor Mein " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Victorian College of the Arts former Mounted Police Stables by Kerstin Thompson Architects. Photo: Trevor Mein</figcaption></figure>Commercial Architecture 17 entries / 5 shortlisted projects 

Jackalope - Carr | Barwon Water - GHDWoodhead | Mercedes Me - Jackson Clements Burrows | Pt Leo Estate - Jolson Architecture &amp; Interiors | GMHBA Stadium - Populous

Interior Architecture 58 entries /12 shortlisted projects

Jackalope - Carr | Henry Street House - Eugene Cheah Architecture | Passage - Honeyman + Smith | Boneo Country House - John Wardle Architects | Monash University Caulfield Library Refurbishment - John Wardle Architects | Monash University Learning and Teaching Building - John Wardle Architects | Victorian College of the Arts former Mounted Police Stables - Kerstin Thompson Architects | Our Lady of Good Counsel Church Deepdene - Law Architects | New Academic Street, RMIT University - Lyons with NMBW Architecture Studio, MvS Architecture, Harrison &amp; White and Maddison Architects | Armadale Residence - Rob Mills Architecture &amp; Interiors | Station Street House - Robert Simeoni Architects | Space &amp; Time - Russell &amp; George

Public Architecture 11 entries / 4 shortlisted projects 

Atrium of Holy Angels Mausoleum - Harmer Architecture | Bendigo Hospital - Silver Thomas Hanley with Bates Smart | Bunjil Place - fjmt | North Fitzroy Library and Community Hub - GroupGSA

Educational Architecture 21 entries / 13 shortlisted projects

Artemis Centre, Melbourne Girls Grammar School - BVN Monash University | The Sir Louis Matheson Library Refurbishment - Cox Architecture | The Geoff Handbury Science and Technology Hub, Melbourne Grammar School - Denton Corker Marshall | Monash University Learning and Teaching Building - John Wardle Architects | Monash University Caulfield Library Refurbishment - John Wardle Architects | Victorian College of the Arts former Mounted Police Stables - Kerstin Thompson Architects | 18 Innovation Walk Revitalisation Project - Kosloff Architecture + Callum Morton + MAP (Monash Art Projects) | New Academic Street, RMIT University - Lyons with NMBW Architecture Studio, Harrison and White, MvS Architects and Maddison Architects | Trinity Grammar School, Centre for Business and Social Enterprise - Mc Intyre Partnership Architects | Monash Business School Redevelopment Caulfield - NH Architecture | Camberwell Grammar School Sports Centre and Chapel - Peter Crone Architects | Ruyton Girls School, Junior School Campus - Sally Draper Architects with DP Toscano Architects | University of Melbourne Academic Services - Six Degrees Architects

Sustainable Architecture 6 shortlisted projects 

Nightingale 1 - Breathe Architecture | Barwon Water - GHDWoodhead | North Fitzroy Library and Community Hub - GroupGSA | 18 Innovation Walk Revitalisation Project - Kosloff Architecture + Callum Morton + MAP (Monash Art Projects) | New Academic Street, RMIT University - Lyons with NMBW Architecture Studio, Harrison and White, MvS Architects and Maddison Architects | Space &amp; Time - Russell &amp; George

Regional Prize 3 shortlisted projects

Barwon Water - GHDWoodhead | Koondrook Wharf - TERROIR | Sorrento Visitor Centre - Workshop Architecture

COLORBOND® Award for Steel Architecture 4 shortlisted projects 

King Bill - Austin Maynard Architects | Compound House - March Studio | Bugiga Hiker Camp, Grampians National Park - Sean Godsell Architects | Unfolding House - Sibling Architecture

Melbourne Prize 4 shortlisted projects 

Nightingale 1 - Breathe Architecture | North Fitzroy Library and Community Hub - GroupGSA | McAuley Community Services for Women - Hede Architects Pty Ltd | New Academic Street, RMIT University - Lyons with NMBW Architecture Studio, Harrison and White, MvS Architects and Maddison Architects

 
The winners of the 2018 Victorian Architecture Awards will be announced at the awards dinner on 29 June 2018. Winners of each category will then progress to compete in the National Architecture Awards program.

Lead image: New Academic Street RMIT University, Peter Bennett
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