The Queensland government has announced the joint winners of the Minister’s Award for Urban Design. Sponsored by the Queensland Government Architect, the annual award recognises outstanding contributions to urban design across the state.
This year, the state’s top urban design honour was bestowed upon two projects: Brisbane’s newest landmark – the 470-metre Kangaroo Point Bridge, and Mary’s Place in Dalby – a new public park that transformed the site of a fire-damaged regional pub.
Kangaroo Point Bridge, which also claimed the Minister’s Movement and Place Award as well as a spot in the recently announced National Architecture Awards shortlist, was praised by the jury “as a masterful balancing of complex functional and structural priorities with a deeply generous program of urban experiences, incorporating activated plazas, historic elements, a 100-seat dining pavilion, and sweeping views of both riverbanks.
Housing and Public Works Minister Sam O’Connor noted, “The Kangaroo Point Bridge is not just a way to cross the river, it’s a destination in itself that offers spectacular views, places to dine, and a new way to connect with the city.”
The project’s architecture and design was led by Blight Rayner Architecture with Dissing and Weitling, based upon a concept and reference design by Brisbane City Council with Arup and Cox Architecture.
Civic Cabinet Chair for Infrastructure Councillor Ryan Murphy said the Kangaroo Point Bridge had quickly become an icon of the city, with more than two million trips taken since its opening in December 2024.
“When we designed the bridge, we went for a bold and striking design that would set it apart from all the other bridges in the city. While it was a challenging and meticulous construction process, the Kangaroo Point Bridge has become a must-visit destination,” Murphy commented.
In Dalby, Mary’s Place was recognised “for delivering a vibrant community space on a modest budget, while celebrating the resilience and character of the proud regional community.”
Designed by Blight Rayner Architecture with Wild Studio, and built on the site of the Commercial Hotel – which burnt down in 2018 – the park is named after long-time publican Mary Barry and serves as a hub for events, gatherings, and to showcase public art.
O’Connor noted that the project “tells a story of loss, resilience and renewal – turning a burnt-down pub into a vibrant public heart of the community.”
The Malcolm Middleton Award for Housing Innovation was awarded to Blok Three Sisters by Blok Modular with Vokes and Peters, which is also shortlisted in the Residential Architecture – Multiple Housing category of this year’s National Architecture Awards. The modest, modular development on Minjerribah/North Stradbroke Island was praised for setting a new benchmark in adaptable, high-quality urban housing.
The judges highlighted its thoughtful spatial layout, focus on natural light and ventilation, and alignment with the principles of QDesign – Queensland’s urban design policy.
“The Blok Three Sisters project on Minjerribah is a great example of modern housing done right – beautiful, sustainable, and smartly built through modular construction,” O’Connor said.
A full list of awarded and commended projects can be viewed online.
Source: Architecture - architectureau
