The 2015 Far North Queensland Architecture Awards were announced on Friday 1 May at the Hilton Hotel Ballroom in Cairns.
From 10 projects submitted, 5 have been recognised by the Australian Institute of Architects Queensland Chapter. Among them, three received additional honours. All projects recognised will progress to the state Queensland Architecture Awards, to be announced in Brisbane on 26 June 2015.
The winners are:
The Edge by Charles Wright Architects.
Image: Patrick Bingham-Hall
Eddie Oribin Award for Building of the Year
The Edge (Port Douglas) – Charles Wright Architects
Jury citation: This house is an impressive response to a difficult site. The robust shell-like concrete envelope gives the client privacy and frames the panoramic view. Raw materials and the angular form, which projects the living areas over the hillside, create a commanding presence for the building.
Planchonella House by Jesse Bennett Architect Builder.
Image: Sean Fennessy
House of the Year and Regional Project of the Year
Planchonella House (Edge Hill) – Jesse Bennett Architect Builder
Jury citation: Planchonella house is tucked into the rainforest along a ridge edge of Mt Whitfield. The building humbly engages the occupants with the environment. Pockets of space are carefully crafted and detailed, creating places that are both calming and invigorating, with elements of quiet delight.
The Australian Armour and Artillery Museum by Julianne McAlloon Architects.
Image: Andrew Watson
People’s Choice Award
The Australian Armour and Artillery Museum (Smithfield) – Julianne McAlloon Architects
Jury citation: The clever use of the ‘tin-shed’ typology provides a surprisingly appropriate exhibition space for this private armour and artillery collection. The restrained interior and stately façade evokes a connection with military imagery. Large openings for cross ventilation and natural skylighting have created a very efficient building envelope.
Regional Commendations
The Australian Armour and Artillery Museum (Smithfield) – Julianne McAlloon Architects
The Edge (Port Douglas) – Charles Wright Architects
Planchonella House (Edge Hill) – Jesse Bennett Architect Builder
Daintree Rainforest Observatory (Cape Tribulation) – CA Architects
Good Counsel College – Westwing Block F (Innisfail) – Total Project Group Architects
