2024 Architecture Awards

Pushing the boundaries of design and creativity

NELSON AND MARLBOROUGH 2024 ARCHITECTURE AWARDS
TE KĀHUI WHAIHANGA NEW ZEALAND INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS

Words: Amy Russ

The local 2024 Architecture Awards, hosted by Te Kāhui Whaihanga New Zealand Institute of Architects, recently celebrated the best in architectural design and innovation across the top of the South region. The annual event was held at the Trafalgar Centre on June 7 and recognised the outstanding work of registered architects who have made significant contributions to the built environment, enhancing quality of life and community identity. Representing over four thousand members, and more than 90 per cent of all registered architects in the country, the organisation promotes and celebrates outstanding architecture while creating greater awareness of the values and benefits well-designed buildings and public spaces can bring to cities and towns.

Highlighting excellence in design, the 2024 awards showcased a diverse range of projects, from residential homes and commercial spaces to public buildings and landscape architecture. Each entry was evaluated on criteria such as design excellence, innovation, sustainability, and how well the project responds to its context and community needs. The judges, comprised of esteemed architects and industry professionals, meticulously reviewed each submission to ensure that only the best of the best were honoured. Judges noted that this year’s categories featured some truly remarkable local buildings, and the winning projects demonstrated how thoughtful design can create comfortable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing living spaces.

A panel of four jurors, including Matt Gutsell of Sheppard and Rout Architects, Magdalena Garbarczyk of Fineline Architecture, architect Helena Alexander from Alexander Romagnoli, and lay juror landscape architect Heidi Stewart, assessed this year’s projects, along with convenor Euan MacKellar. “Projects in this year’s awards have weathered unprecedented conditions, including extreme weather events, supply chain issues, spiralling costs, and Covid,” says Euan. “Despite the unforeseen challenges, architects managed to hold onto key concepts, maintain good design, and foster strong relationships with their clients and builders—a credit to the profession.”

Judges say the awards highlighted projects that significantly contribute to the community’s social and economic life. Sustainability was a key theme at this year’s awards, reflecting the growing importance of environmentally responsible design. Several projects were commended for their commitment to reducing environmental impact and promoting sustainability. Seventeen projects were shortlisted for the awards, showcasing a wide array of architectural brilliance and innovation.

The recent awards highlighted an impressive array of projects, each reflecting the visionary approach and meticulous craftsmanship of the region’s registered architectural community. From buildings imagined with the future in mind to projects first conceived a decade ago that now stand as testaments to their owners’ appreciation for regional modernist architecture, the awards highlighted the diverse and innovative spirit that defines the region’s built environment. Included was a vibrant community hub that seamlessly integrated public spaces to foster social interaction and community engagement, providing a place for people to connect, share, and thrive. New and existing farm-ready buildings, ingeniously bound together by social spaces, enhance the functionality and aesthetic appeal of rural environments. These projects demonstrate the importance of blending practicality with design excellence, ensuring that even utilitarian structures contribute positively to their surroundings.

The New Zealand Architecture Awards continue to celebrate the exceptional work of those who are not only shaping our physical landscape but also enriching the social fabric of our communities. Their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and design excellence ensures a legacy of architectural beauty and functionality for generations to come. Euan highlighted the resilience and creativity of the architectural community in overcoming the challenges posed by recent global events, saying the architects showcased in this year’s awards have demonstrated remarkable ingenuity and dedication in the face of adversity. Their ability to adapt and innovate has resulted in projects that not only meet but exceed the expectations of their clients and communities.

The Nelson and Marlborough 2024 Architecture Awards leave a lasting impression of the power of architecture to shape and enhance the human experience. It shows the vital role that architects play in creating spaces that are not only functional but also sustainable and resilient.

Looking ahead, the awards highlight the importance of continuing to prioritise sustainability and innovation in architectural practice. As the built environment faces increasing pressures from climate change and urbanisation, the need for thoughtful, forward-looking design becomes ever more critical. The 2024 Architecture Awards serve as an inspiration for architects to push the boundaries of what is possible, creating spaces that enrich the lives of those who inhabit them and contribute to a more sustainable future.

THIS YEAR'S MAJOR AWARD WINNERS

COMMERCIAL ARCHITECTURE
Waimea Nurseries Fieldwork by Irving Smith Architects
Nelson Orthodontics Richmond Practice by Redbox Architects

HOUSING
Anakiwa House by Arthouse Architects
Two Gables by First Light Studio
House with Hat by Irving Smith Architects
The Lookout by Parsonson Architects

PUBLIC ARCHITECTURE
Marlborough District Library and Art Gallery | Te Kahu o Waipuna by Warren and Mahoney Architects

SMALL PROJECT ARCHITECTURE
Longbeach Bay Boatshed by Arthouse Architects
The Studio by Johnstone Callaghan Architects