issue date: 30 October 2008
The iconic Watercube and its Australian-led architectural design team have taken out the major International Award at the 2008 Australian Institute of Architects National Architecture Awards.
The Australian Institute of Architects’ Jorn Utzon Award for International Architecture was tonight presented to the Watercube - National Swimming Centre Beijing – by CSCEC + PTW Architects + CCDI + ARUP from a strong field of entrants from around the world. All projects entered in the awards must be submitted by architecture practices who are members of the Australian Institute of Architects. All projects undertaken in China must be done so in collaboration with a China-based practice, such as CCDI and CSCEC.
Announcing the award in Adelaide tonight, jury chair Alec Tzannes said the Watercube and the “Birdsnest” were not just the two main venues for the Games, but had “become the two symbols of the Olympic Games, and worthy companions”. He said: “The design of the National Swimming Centre combines the idea of the molecular structure of water with the symbol of the square to create an inspired and inventive architecture.”
The jury citation added: “The Watercube uses state-of-the-art materials to create a visually striking building that is also energy-efficient and ecologically friendly. The most impressive aspect of the project is the outer shell or molecular skin that envelops the building. The building has a chameleon-like quality that captures light in an extraordinary and memorable way. In every respect, the Watercube is an engaging and ethereal building that comfortably straddles the traditions of both Chinese and Western architecture.”
Architecture Awards for International Architecture were presented to the Stadium Mass Rapid Transit Station and Newton Suites - both in Singapore and designed by WOHA. In another win for Australian-designed Olympic venues, a Commendation for International Architecture was also presented to the 2008 Beijing Olympic Tennis Centre by Bligh Voller Nield in collaboration with CCDI.
Nineteen projects from China, New Zealand, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, India, Vietnam, the Philippines and the United Arab Emirates were entered in this year’s International Award.
The National Architecture Awards would not be possible without the support of the Institute’s principal corporate partner, BlueScope Steel; supporting corporate partners Lockwood, Dulux, Autodesk and Virgin Atlantic; and event sponsors Form & Function, Bassett and K&B Exclusive Group.
For interviews and high resolution images, please contact the Media Unit.
Australian Institute of Architects | Media Unit
Ms Trish Croaker (in Sydney)
0408 756 163
trish.croaker@raia.com.au
Ms Kirsten Trengove (in Melbourne)
0439 555 427
kirsten.trengove@raia.com.au
The Australian Institute of Architects is the peak body for the architectural profession, representing more than 9500 members across Australia and overseas. The Institute actively works to improve the quality of our built environment by promoting quality, responsible and sustainable design.
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