Spinifex Hill Project Space | Officer Woods

At the northern apex of the SpinifexHillStudios site, this independent multipurpose building transforms an existing garden into a secluded courtyard. Conceived as both a building in the round/courtyard companion to existing artists’ studio, its tall form addresses a main road and low form dips down to garden. Built to three boundaries with an ‘eye–lash verandah’ roof, the resulting form is varied and enigmatic. Materially austere and tautly detailed, the building reads as a sculptural object in a regional suburban field: announcing itself as a small cultural offering. The project fosters greater economic opportunities as well as cultural engagement for Kariyarra people. It supports the notion that when strong culture is supported by strong social and physical infrastructure, it leads to stronger, healthier communities.

Parramatta Aquatic Centre | Grimshaw and Andrew Burges Architects with McGregor Coxall

The Parramatta Aquatic Centre (PAC) is a recreational facility located in Parramatta. Situated on a 20 hectare park adjacent to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Parramatta Park and Old Government House, the centre embraces the vision of the Mays Hill Masterplan while complementing the surrounding landscape. Instead of an enclosed structure, the PAC is a connected community landscape with a sunken courtyard at its centre.

The pools appear to be carved out of the site’s topography, minimising their impact on the park. Construction materials like recycled waste, concrete, and timber were selected to blend with the environment. The design also includes First Nations interpretive elements in collaboration with local Darug elders. Sustainability was prioritised, incorporating woodland restoration, water sensitive urban design, and renewable energy. The PAC has attracted over 20,000 visitors per week since opening, offering essential swimming and recreational facilities to Western Sydney while addressing urban heat concerns.

Berninneit Cultural and Community Centre | Jackson Clements Burrows Architects

Located on Phillip Island, Berninneit, (meaning Gather Together) creates a new purpose–built public building to support a range of uses including a theatre, library, gallery, museum, community function rooms and offices.

Evoking the region’s natural geology and topography, the design feels inherently connected to and of its place. Warm, pink–cream brick references nearby sand dunes and beaches, whilst internal timber columns speak to the island’s jetties and pier structures.

The building creates a dynamic and interactive destination that is set to become a source of civic pride. Bringing together the cultural and social aspirations of the community, it draws visitors to showcase the region’s rich history and culture.

Designed to Passivhaus Standards and incorporating mass timber construction, the Centre expands and diversifies existing community programs and services and creates a place for people to meet and connect.