2016 National Architecture Awards: Commercial Architecture Commendation

Jury Citation

In the Cape York Partnership Offices, a finely resolved and modern office environment has been created through minimal means. With tilt-up concrete walls and a coolroom panel roof, the structure and broad rectangular form are straightforward. However, this simple form is then layered, detailed, added to and subtracted from to create a richness in space and detail. A striking serrated gold screen hangs along the building’s length, forming a rich and patterned approach to the street edge as well as gilding the light that enters the workspace. The concrete panels are gently carved – a series of impressions alluding to an almost personal marking on their surface. A courtyard has been cut into the interior, bringing light and landscape into the deep plan. The building entrance leads into a central street, forming an urban space that separates the public and private components of the building’s program. Simple means combined with care and creativity have created both a successful and light-filled workplace and a sensitive and notable contribution to the streetscape in Cairns.