Queensland architect and “Renaissance man” Don Watson has been awarded Australian Institute of Architects’ Gold Medal for 2021 at the announcement of the National Prizes.
With a career spanning more than 50 years, Watson is recognized as Queensland’s foremost architectural historian, as an activist and advocate for architecture, as well as a protagonist of postmodernist design, with work that traverses scale and type.
“Don’s lifelong contribution to Australia’s architectural landscape has been delivered with an unwavering focus on inclusivity and humility and the impact of this, together with his philanthropic endeavours and advocacy for the preservation of architectural works, will prevail for many generations to come,” said Institute president Alice Hampson.
Awarded the National President’s Prize for his role in championing local architects and elevating awareness of Australian architecture was Andrew Mackenzie, director at Uro Publications and City Lab. “Andrew’s tireless efforts in advancing architectural excellence and interests through multifarious roles have captured our history, shone a light on important issues, and quietly elevated the profession’s standing and the prestige of local architects,” said Hampson.
The Leadership in Sustainability Prize was awarded jointly to Caroline Pidcock and Tone Wheeler, both recognized by the jury as founders of the sustainability movement in Australia. They were commended for leading the profession through their involvement in demonstration projects that “enable everyone to see that sustainability can be cost-effective, inclusive and beautiful.”
Suzie Hunt, the first female president for the WA chapter of the Institute and an “engaged advocate, mentor and policy commentator” was the recipient the Paula Whitman Leadership in Gender Equity Prize. The jury commended Hunt’s research-driven policy agitation, public speaking, and advocacy in working to improve gender balance and the welfare of women and families.
The Neville Quarry Architectural Education Prize was jointly awarded to John Macarthur, professor at the University of Queensland and Conrad Hamann, professor of architectural history at RMIT University.
The Bluescope Glenn Murcutt Student Prize went to University of Queensland architecture student Kelly Nortje for her project “Remove – Repair – Reciprocity,” and the Student Prize for the Advancement of Architecture was presented to Alvin Zhu of the University of Queensland, for his global sharing platform, Projects by People.
Finally, Carly Martin, Simon Rochowski, Nick Roberts, Madeline Sewall and Elizabeth Walsh have been selected to join the 2021 Australian Institute of Architects Dulux Study Tour.
2021 National Prizes winners are:
Gold Medal – Donald Watson
National President’s Prize – Andrew Mackenzie
Leadership in Sustainability Prize – Caroline Pidcock and Tone Wheeler (joint winners)
Paula Whitman Leadership in Gender Equity Prize – Suzie Hunt
Neville Quarry Architectural Education Prize – John Macarthur and Conrad Hamann (joint winners)
Bluescope Glenn Murcutt Student Prize – Kelly Nortje, University of Queensland
Student Prize for the Advancement of Architecture – Alvin Zhu, University of Queensland
Australian Institute of Architects’ Dulux Study Tour – Carly Martin, Simon Rochowski, Nick Roberts, Madeline Sewall and Elizabeth Walsh
