We’re thrilled to announce the launch of three brand-new prizes for the 2025 ACT Architecture Awards. This is your opportunity to showcase your work in the inaugural year of these prestigious accolades. With a strong focus on both the architectural industry and the broader ACT community, these prizes aim to highlight projects that make a meaningful impact. Don’t miss out on the chance to be part of this exciting new chapter—submit your project today and help shape the future of architecture in the ACT!
Prize for Country Centred Architectural Narratives
The Prize for Country Centred Architectural Narratives seeks projects that explore and celebrate considered Country Centred design principles within a wide range of possibilities. Country encompasses everything. It includes both living and non-living elements. It holds everything within the landscape, including Earth, Water and Sky Country, as well as people, animals, plants,1 and the narratives that connect them. Narratives are the binding of everything within Country, and they consolidate the experience of Country. Architectural Narratives, therefore, extend beyond concept and process. This prize invites projects that promote Country Centred Narratives – encompassing themes such as community, collaboration, sustainability, culture, and storytelling. Country Centred Architectural Narratives provide the opportunity for architects to create authentic progress into the development of a 21st century Australian design ethos that embodies the intrinsic value of Country at its heart.
Missing Middle Prize
The Missing Middle Prize recognises outstanding architectural projects that contribute to the diversity and vitality of urban housing through the design of medium-density dwellings. This prize celebrates innovative solutions that bridge the gap between low-density suburban housing and high-rise developments, addressing the growing need for well-designed, sustainable, and community-focused housing in urban environments. The recipient of this prize will have demonstrated creativity in creating thoughtful, well-integrated designs that enhance the urban fabric, foster community connection, and provide adaptable living spaces. Emphasising quality over quantity, the award acknowledges projects that offer a balanced approach to density, sustainability, and liveability, contributing to the evolution of our cities in a responsible and inclusive manner.
Social Impact prize
The Social Impact Prize honours architectural projects that demonstrate a profound commitment to enhancing social outcomes through design. This prize recognises projects that positively influence communities, improve quality of life, and address pressing social issues such as accessibility, equity, and inclusivity. The recipient of this prize will have created spaces that foster community engagement, empower vulnerable groups, or contribute to the broader public good, all while promoting sustainable practices. This award celebrates designs that go beyond aesthetic or functional considerations, focusing on how architecture can shape social experiences, encourage human connection, and uplift communities in meaningful and lasting ways.
