Architecture awards praise creative ideas

THE design excellence of Tasmanian architects has been showcased in the state’s industry awards.

The winners of the 2020 Tasmanian Architecture Awards were announced with a virtual presentation on YouTube last night, as part of a month-long series of state and territory awards run by the Australian Institute of Architects.

Australian Institute of Architects’ Tasmanian Chapter executive director Jennifer Nichols said these projects were what made Tasmania special.

“We have beautiful heritage homes and buildings across the state, but they are ageing and don’t have the amenities required for modern living,” she said.

“Many of the winning projects show how architects can transform these buildings into practical and unique places to live, work and play.

“We see this in Bozen’s Cottage in Oatlands, by Taylor and Hinds Architects, which uses an existing sandstone cottage and transforms it into a cosy family home, while the Kingborough Community Hub by March Studio utilises the existing structure of the former Kingston High School gymnasium in making the site a place for all. Architects in Tasmania, and across Australia, have a unique ability to problem-solve.”

This year’s jury consisted of chairwoman Lucy BurkeSmith of Purcell, architect Bevan Rees, Will Harkness of Jaws Architects, Bek Verrier of Bence Mulcahy, and Design Institute of Australia Victorian and Tasmanian manager Bernadette Wilson.

Ms Smith said this year’s entries demonstrated the calibre of Tasmania’s architects.

‘This creativity is evident in the strong submissions across the categories for Heritage and Residential Architecture — Alterations and Additions.

“These entries breathe new life into existing buildings in ways which are not only creative, but sustainable for cities such as Hobart, as we consider issues of density and urban sprawl,” she said.

“The jury recognised several projects which stand as benchmarks for those looking to adaptively reuse or insert new additions in residential contexts to support independent living for retirees and multi-generational living.”

The Tasmanian winners will progress to the National Architecture Awards. To vote in the People's Choice Awards, visit architecture. com.au