The Australian Institute of Architects has revealed the winners of the 2019 edition of the NSW Country Division Awards.
Taking the top accolade home, the James Barnet Award, was Takt Studio for its Cloud House in Bowral. The stunning cottage will evolve to nestle into an established garden, providing habitat for birds and enhancing the streetscape.
A jury of experts, led by Virginia Wong-See, also gave the project the award for Residential Architecture – Houses (New), offering praise for its environmental principles such as geothermal heating and cooling, plus solar and rainwater storage.
“The highly crafted project offers a legacy for future generations,” the jury said.
“With exceptional craftsmanship the building is designed to age graciously, timeless in its aesthetic.”
Cloud Cottage also won the Termimesh Timber Award with its sophisticated exploration of the use of a single species of hardwood timber. The home highlights the versatility of timber, using it in different ways to create a series of warm, elegant spaces.
It was a good day at the office for Take Studio, who took home no less than four awards. This included a second award for Residential Architecture – Houses (New) with Blade House on the Illawarra Coast.
“The house pays homage to the history of Australian coastal towns,” the jury added.
“Elevated from the ground plane to harness the costal views, the design is orientated in a way that pays attention to the ever-changing site conditions.”
Source Architects’ March House in Orange was crowned winner of both the Residential Architecture – Houses (Alterations and Additions) category, and the Interior Architecture award.
Special commendation was given to this project’s ability to keep alive the original 1910 Federation building in the design, and the cohesive approach to interior detailing that blends old and new.
However, The Heritage Architecture award went to the Kingscliff Community Hall and Amenities by Aspect Architecture.
From being set for demolition, like so many other builds in the area, the hall and its amenities and visitors centre have been elevated to the position of community landmark, as harmonious to each other as they are to their neighbourhood.
In addition to the eight jury awards and eight commendations, Echo Beach House by Create Architecture won the People’s Choice award by popular vote.
The house speaks to an appreciation for entertaining, uncomplicated coastal living and surf culture, while seamlessly responding to the inspiration found by the clients in the architecture of Richard Neutra.
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