Issue 71

June — August 2020

This is a special issue. For seventeen years, Artichoke has been presenting the results of the prestigious Australian Interior Design Awards. And, despite the health and economic challenges we are all grappling with, this year is no different. Each year, the awards garner amazing entries in all categories and 2020 is no exception. Now more than ever is an opportune time to reflect on the incredible quality of design being produced by this country’s designers through surveying this year’s winners, commendations and shortlist. We should all acknowledge and congratulate the innovative and talented designers who conceive these inspiring projects, as well as those who commission these works and those who give them built form.

In past years we’ve gathered at a gala presentation to announce the winners and share the celebration with the design community. But as I write this – in mid-april – it is clear the awards night will not go ahead this year – something I’m sure we all regret. But we will still be announcing the winners, just in a different way, the format of which we’re working on as I write this. Perhaps by now we’ve simply published the results online or maybe I’ve donned a party dress and revealed the winners on Zoom from my living room. (I hope it’s not the latter, but in these strange times, anything is possible). Whatever the case, I look forward to seeing you all soon, shaking your hand (if I’m allowed) and having an overdue celebratory drink.

Our industry landscape may be different after the dust has settled from this pandemic but I have no doubt that, in tough times, our design and architecture community is one that unites, supports and acknowledges fine work.