The Australian Institute of Architects WA President’s Prize for 2024 has been awarded to two people advocating for the architecture profession in Western Australia – architect Warren Kerr AM and journalist Claire Tyrell.
Founding Director of the Hames Sharley Health Portfolio, Warren Kerr AM has made an enormous contribution to the profession over his long and distinguished career. While journalist Claire Tyrrell has made a significant impact in recent years translating the language of architecture into accessible, engaging content, informing and inspiring her readership.
Australian Institute of Architects WA President Sandy Anghie said the WA President’s Prize recognises
an individual’s contribution to the advancement of architecture in a significant way – other than through design and practice. Such contribution may be made over a lifetime, or may relate to a single activity, including support of the profession, effective advocacy, architectural discourse and community engagement.
Architecture plays a significant role in people’s lives, shaping how we live, work, and play. From buildings to urban spaces, architecture is all around us and impacts the well-being and quality of life of individuals and the communities at large.
However, not all people realise this.
Ms Anghie said, “For many people, architecture is a nebulous concept, often reduced to an image. This is where Claire Tyrrell, as an architecture and property journalist, has been playing a crucial role. Ms Tyrrell’s coverage of architects and their projects is extensive – educating and engaging the public on the many benefits of good design and inspiring engagement with the profession.”
Ms Tyrrell has also volunteered her time over the past three years to be a judge for the WA Architecture Awards, where her commercial insights have been invaluable.
Ms Tyrrell said, “During my time at Business News, I’ve had the opportunity to be involved in a lot of the work WA architects – both through the Australian Institute of Architects and also Perth Design Week. It’s a great privilege to be able to showcase good design and to learn about the intricacies of this profession in Perth. I’m deeply appreciative of this award.”
Ms Tyrrell graduated from Edith Cowan University in 2009 with degrees in English and Journalism. She first worked for Regional newspapers and The West Australian, before a move to London where she covered the finance sector. On her return to Perth, Ms Tyrrell joined Business News as a senior journalist in 2021 and over the past 3 years she has been comprehensively covering the property sector including architecture.
Warren Kerr has been recognised via many awards and honours over his career, including being appointed as a member of the Order of Australia for his services to architecture and his contribution to the planning and design of major health facilities. In addition to his role at Hames Sharley, Mr Kerr maintains an active interest in teaching and research as an Adjunct Professor at UWA, a member of the UWA Senate, a member of the University’s Convocation Council and a Board member of the Australian Health Design Council.
Ms Anghie said “Mr Kerr has deservedly been recognised via many awards and honours. But this year being the 20th anniversary of the appointment of the first Government Architect in Western Australia, it is fitting to recognise Mr Kerr for his successful advocacy that led to the creation of this role and the benefits it has brought the community over the years.”
As a former State and National President of the Australian Institute of Architects, Mr Kerr successfully lobbied State and Territory Governments to establish the position of Government Architects 20 years ago. He also convinced the City of Perth to appoint a City Architect, promoted architecture by celebrating the Year of the Built Environment throughout Australia, among other achievements.
Mr Kerr said, “It has been a privilege to witness the contributions made to improving our built environment by the Government Architects of Western Australia and City Architect for Perth. Their combined efforts have resulted in enhancing the designs of the buildings and the infrastructure that provides the built environment of our State to be more functional, sustainable and equitable by reflecting the values and aspirations of our society.
