Malop Arcade project wins national architecture award

THE recently completed Malop Arcade project in central Geelong has been lauded at the Australian Institute of Architects National Awards last week, taking out the Small Project Architecture category.

The project was acknowledged for its innovative transformation of the central Geelong location, that extended Dennys Place from Malop Street to Little Malop Street with a green and vibrant breakthrough.

In a partnership between the State Government and the City, key CBD destinations have become linked through the development and previously private spaces have come alive, as public laneways and gardens integrate greenery and improve pedestrian access.

City of Greater Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj said the project had been key in the city’s pursuit to refurbish the central Geelong area.

“The Geelong Laneways: Malop Arcade project has been a huge success, and we can see that with the number of people who pass through the area every day, linking areas that were previously divided,” he said.

“It’s great to see the 2025 Australian Institute of Architects National Awards highlighting that our city is home to architecture that is recognised on the national stage.”

The project’s success will continue with the nearly completed Market Street Breakthrough development, another partnership between the State and the City which will connect the Market Street lane through to Ryrie Street through lively public spaces.

Councillor Ron Nelson, deputy chair of the council’s CBD Revitalisation portfolio, said these projects were a reflection of the positive outcomes that stem from multiple governments working together.

“This was a really solid outcome as a direct result of a partnership between the City and the Victorian government.

“We are very excited for the Market Street Breakthrough project to be completed, and to see our city’s connectivity and revitalisation continued further.”