AILA Chapter Awards 2024

The AILA Chapter Awards this year showcased a broad array of outstanding projects – from integrating tree preservation strategies, to the creation of flexible gathering spots. Many entrants successfully harnessed community involvement, resulting in benefits not only for the environment, but for society.

Submissions that were quick to turn around and those that took years to finalise were rewarded. “Some projects were delivered in multiple stages over two decades, often on controversial projects with little public recognition,” said NSW Jury Chair Kate Luckraft.

Urbis won three awards at the Queensland ceremony, including Health and Education, Civic Places and Play Spaces. “I can tell you that these recognitions are incredibly meaningful,” said Urbis Landscape Architect, Cassandra Friday, in Brisbane. “Winning an award, such as the one for the Barrambin/Victoria Park Shelters project, is a testament to the hard work, creativity and collaboration of the entire Urbis team,” she said.

LD Total in Perth won an award for Community Contribution. Their ‘My Home’ project in North Fremantle will provide housing for women over 55 who are experiencing homelessness. The beautifully landscaped gardens provide a sense of safety for those who have lived in unstable and sometimes unsafe environments.

“It’s really nice to receive acknowledgement by those within our own field, as they understand how hard it can be to get really great outcomes. It’s always a nice way to finalise a project,” says Senior Landscape Architect Douglas Pott.

In South Australia, JPE Design Studio won an award for Parks and Open Space for their redevelopment of Paradise Recreation Plaza with Convic. They worked closely with Campbelltown City Council to turn a popular skate park into a modern and contemporary recreation reserve.

“I can safely say that one of my favourite parts of the process is when the project is opened to the public and we get to see our designs in use – particularly playspaces and recreation spaces like skateparks or parks. We all feel really lucky to be in a profession that has the capacity to leave a legacy for generations to come,” says Kiri Bowmer, Senior Landscape Architect at JPE Design Studio in Adelaide.

Cassandra Friday said the awards validate the effort put into each project, serving as a reminder of their commitment to shaping the cities and communities of Australia in a positive and sustainable way. “It’s not just about the accolade, but about the impact that our work has on people’s lives and futures.”

By Melissa Gerke
Content and Presentation Specialist

Street Furniture Australia are proud supporters of the AILA Awards. View all AILA Chapter Award winners.