Local projects lauded in National Architecture Awards

Two outstanding buildings in the Geelong region have received the highest praise in this year’s National Architecture Awards.

Announced earlier this month, the awards run by the Australian Institute of Architects highlight Australia’s most innovative, sustainable and inspirational homes, commercial and community buildings.

The AIA says the 2023 edition of the awards particularly showcases the exemplary work being done in the nation’s regional areas.

This is typified by the National Award for Residential Architecture – Houses (New) going to Spring Creek Road Farm House, Bannockburn by Architect Brew Koch; and AB House in Barwon Heads by Office Mi-Ji winning the Colorbond Award for Steel Architecture.

Built in a paddock in the Golden Plains, Spring Creek Road Farm House was one of three winners in its category.

The judging panels’s citation noted the building was “tucked in among working farmland” and “looks, from a distance, like a piece of farm infrastructure”.

“But as you get closer, it becomes apparent that something else entirely is at play.

“Sitting on a modest, off-grid footprint, this home is a lesson in providing just enough: just enough space, just enoughncomfort, just enough light, and – with its carefully curated views – just enough aspect.

AB House is a perfect example of a beach houses with the right mix of freedom and ambition to allow a relatively modest budget to shine.