Evelyn Reynolds

Development approval has been granted for a $500 million mixed-use tower in Sydney’s east. A joint venture between Lendlease and Mitsubishi Estate Asia, the One Darling Point project has been designed by local architecture practice Tzannes.
Located on the boundary between Darling Point and Edgecliff, the development is proposed on the site of a 1941 heritage-listed Commonwealth Bank building.
The 17-storey proposal includes 41 premium apartments with interior design by Alexander and Co., as well as 15 percent floor space dedicated to affordable housing for key workers, whose interiors have been designed by Tzannes. In addition, the development includes commercial office space, ground-floor retail and hospitality offerings, a rooftop pool and a wellness centre.
According to a release from the practice, the project sets a precedent for the sensitive integration of premium residences with affordable housing.
Tzannes associate director Yi-han Cao said, “More people now want to live in well-designed apartments, and we believe everyone should have access to design excellence regardless of tenure or price point.”
“This is a model for how Sydney – particularly the eastern suburbs – can evolve, delivering housing diversity while maintaining the quality that defines this area,” he added.

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Tzannes’ design approach for One Darling Point “was to design a building that entirely belongs to its place,” drawing inspiration from the pre- and post-colonial history of the site.
The building’s curved facade is intended to reflect the sand dunes that once featured prominently, while brick was selected for its material longevity and to complement the post-colonial architecture of the area.
At the podium level, the proposal responds to the rhythm and materiality of the adjacent heritage building, while the tower above is articulated to reduce visual bulk and capture natural light.

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The development makes use of the NSW government’s planning incentives to boost low-income housing, including bonus height and floor space allowances, which were introduced in 2023. Cao said these incentives provide a critical opportunity to reframe urban density.
“Height isn’t just about delivering more apartments,” he said. “It’s about making viable models for mixed tenure housing. The challenge is to ensure design quality doesn’t drop as we increase yield. That’s where architects can play a meaningful role.”
To this point, Cao noted that “it can be difficult to make the inclusion of social and affordable housing viable, particularly in locations where land costs are high and construction costs and complexities are significant.”
“We’re constantly applying our research and experience to prove good design is feasible. I predict many projects will remain on the edge of feasibility unless some roadblocks to approval are relaxed or stronger incentives for affordable housing are implemented,” he said.
According to Tzannes’ communique, “Projects like One Darling Point, while premium in nature, establish a precedent for well-designed higher density in traditionally low-rise areas” and could invite more inclusive housing outcomes in future.
“If density becomes more acceptable in these locations, it becomes easier to deliver housing diversity in the next generation of projects,” Cao said.
Construction on One Darling Point is expected to commence in 2026. More

In August, an emerging generation of Australian architects will present at the Sydney edition of The Architecture Symposium, sharing their ideas on what the future of architectural practice looks like and how they’re working to shape this through their process and projects. The full-day symposium will feature nine presenters and three intergenerational conversations on what’s next for practice.
Read up on the individual presenters below:
Amelia Borg of Sibling Architecture
A 2025 juror and 2024 winner of the ArchitectureAu Award for Social Impact, Amelia Borg of Sibling Architecture is interested in making projects “that makes people’s lives better.” Borg will delve into Sibling’s user-first approach, which is both research-led and multidisciplinary.
Ben Berwick of Prevalent
Ben Berwick heads up interdisciplinary Sydney practice Prevalent, which focuses on the integration of architectural rigour, industrial innovation and ESG-driven design. He recently interviewed Rwanda-based consultant Fatou Kiné Dieye ahead of her keynote address at the 2025 Australian Architecture Conference. Berwick’s presentation at The Architecture Symposium will push the envelope on current conceptions of sustainability.
Simon Robinson of Office
Along with Steve Mintern, Simon Robinson leads Office, a not-for-profit practice directed toward design, research and activism, particularly around the retention and repair of Melbourne’s public housing towers and social housing estates. Robinson will discuss Office’s alternative mode of practice, which continues to evolve with initiatives such as 3553, a free-of-charge exhibition space recently opened behind a garage door in Collingwood.
Liz Walsh of So. Architecture
Recently announced as a co-recipient of the 2025 Australian Institute of Architecture Tasmanian Architecture Awards Emerging Architect Prize, Liz Walsh is one half of So. Architecture – a small studio Walsh founded with life partner Alex Nielsen while both working nine-to-five for larger-scale practices. Walsh will present the distinct model of practice her and Nielsen have prototyped, whose output includes small-scale accommodation projects in Hobart, such as The Barn Tas and The Bae Tas.
Jack Gillmer-Lilley of SJB
One third of the creative team for Home, the Australian exhibition at the 2025 Venice Architecture Biennale, Jack Gillmer-Lilley leads First Nations design as an associate at Sydney practice SJB. Gillmer-Lilley will discuss his approach to Indigenising practice and creating equitable outcomes for Country.
Xavier De Kestelier of Hassell
London-based architect and technologist Xavier De Kestelier has a keen interest in design technology and digital innovation, which he pursues in his work at Hassell. He recently contributed to a rountable on the integration of AI in architectural practice (Architecture Australia Mar/Apr 2024). De Kestelier’s presentation will posit ways to embrace new generation technology in practice.
Nic Brunsdon of Brunsdon Studio
Nic Brunsdon is director of the Perth-based practice Brunsdon Studio (formerly practising under his own name), which operates across Australia and South-East Asia. Earlier this year, he contributed to a rountable on the circular economy (Architecture Australia Mar/Apr 2025) and was a juror for the AA Prize for Unbuilt Work. Brunsdon will speak to the way in which he has diversified his studio over the past decade.
Billy Maynard of Billy Maynard Architects
Sydney-based Billy Maynard leads a studio of the same with a single residential folio. The practice was also recently announced as the winner of a design competition for a new Sydney war memorial. Maynard will relay the roundabout journey he’s taken in practice, including working client-side.
Belqis Youssofzay of Youssofzay Hart
Alongside David Hart, Belqis Youssofzay leads Youssofzay Hart – a self-declared “next generation” practice “informed by a seismic shift in thinking towards urgent consideration for the environment and architecture’s impact on it,” writes Linda Cheng. Youssofzay will discuss the collective and collaborative approach championed by the practice.
The full-day symposium will be held on 1 August, followed by the 2025 Houses Awards on the evening of the same day. Tickets to the symposium and the 2025 Houses Awards are now available. Architects are eligible to earn up to 4.5 formal CPD points, while Design Institute of Australia members can earn 6 DIA CPD points by attending The Architecture Symposium: What’s Next for Practice?
The Architecture Symposium is a Design Speaks program organised by Architecture Media, supported by premium partners Planned Cover and Bondor, and hotel partner Ovolo. More

In August, an emerging generation of Australian architects will present at the Sydney edition of The Architecture Symposium, sharing their ideas on what the future of architectural practice looks like and how they’re working to shape this through their process and projects. The full-day symposium will feature nine presenters and three intergenerational conversations on what’s next for practice.
Read up on the individual presenters below:
Amelia Borg of Sibling Architecture
A 2025 juror and 2024 winner of the ArchitectureAu Award for Social Impact, Amelia Borg of Sibling Architecture is interested in making projects “that makes people’s lives better.” Borg will delve into Sibling’s user-first approach, which is both research-led and multidisciplinary.
Ben Berwick of Prevalent
Ben Berwick heads up interdisciplinary Sydney practice Prevalent, which focuses on the integration of architectural rigour, industrial innovation and ESG-driven design. He recently interviewed Rwanda-based consultant Fatou Kiné Dieye ahead of her keynote address at the 2025 Australian Architecture Conference. Berwick’s presentation at The Architecture Symposium will push the envelope on current conceptions of sustainability.
Simon Robinson of Office
Along with Steve Mintern, Simon Robinson leads Office, a not-for-profit practice directed toward design, research and activism, particularly around the retention and repair of Melbourne’s public housing towers and social housing estates. Robinson will discuss Office’s alternative mode of practice, which continues to evolve with initiatives such as 3553, a free-of-charge exhibition space recently opened behind a garage door in Collingwood.
Liz Walsh of So. Architecture
Recently announced as a co-recipient of the 2025 Australian Institute of Architecture Tasmanian Architecture Awards Emerging Architect Prize, Liz Walsh is one half of So. Architecture – a small studio Walsh founded with life partner Alex Nielsen while both working nine-to-five for larger-scale practices. Walsh will present the distinct model of practice her and Nielsen have prototyped, whose output includes small-scale accommodation projects in Hobart, such as The Barn Tas and The Bae Tas.
Jack Gillmer-Lilley of SJB
One third of the creative team for Home, the Australian exhibition at the 2025 Venice Architecture Biennale, Jack Gillmer-Lilley leads First Nations design as an associate at Sydney practice SJB. Gillmer-Lilley will discuss his approach to Indigenising practice and creating equitable outcomes for Country.
Xavier De Kestelier of Hassell
London-based architect and technologist Xavier De Kestelier has a keen interest in design technology and digital innovation, which he pursues in his work at Hassell. He recently contributed to a rountable on the integration of AI in architectural practice (Architecture Australia Mar/Apr 2024). De Kestelier’s presentation will posit ways to embrace new generation technology in practice.
Nic Brunsdon of Brunsdon Studio
Nic Brunsdon is director of the Perth-based practice Brunsdon Studio (formerly practising under his own name), which operates across Australia and South-East Asia. Earlier this year, he contributed to a rountable on the circular economy (Architecture Australia Mar/Apr 2025) and was a juror for the AA Prize for Unbuilt Work. Brunsdon will speak to the way in which he has diversified his studio over the past decade.
Billy Maynard of Billy Maynard Architects
Sydney-based Billy Maynard leads a studio of the same with a single residential folio. The practice was also recently announced as the winner of a design competition for a new Sydney war memorial. Maynard will relay the roundabout journey he’s taken in practice, including working client-side.
Belqis Youssofzay of Youssofzay Hart
Alongside David Hart, Belqis Youssofzay leads Youssofzay Hart – a self-declared “next generation” practice “informed by a seismic shift in thinking towards urgent consideration for the environment and architecture’s impact on it,” writes Linda Cheng. Youssofzay will discuss the collective and collaborative approach championed by the practice.
The full-day symposium will be held on 1 August, followed by the 2025 Houses Awards on the evening of the same day. Tickets to the symposium and the 2025 Houses Awards are now available. Architects are eligible to earn up to 4.5 formal CPD points, while Design Institute of Australia members can earn 6 DIA CPD points by attending The Architecture Symposium: What’s Next for Practice?
The Architecture Symposium is a Design Speaks program organised by Architecture Media, supported by premium partners Planned Cover and Bondor, and hotel partner Ovolo. More

Architect Jiri Lev’s candidacy as an independent MP for Lyons in the upcoming Tasmanian state election on 19 July is founded on the core tenet that housing needs must be not only environmentally responsible but accessible to all.
Key to his campaign is establishing a pathway for Tasmanians, including public housing tenants and applicants, to build their own homes under builder’s supervision, enabling them to gain both significant equity in their new rent-to-own houses, as well as skills and income potential.
“Like in the ‘50s, neighbours lending each other a hand would again build streets, suburbs, villages and strong, cohesive, long-term communities,” Lev said. “I want houses to be homes again.”
To facilitate this shift, the architect is targeting first home owner grants and support for owner-builders, with his ultimate aim being “to create a simple-to-use, step-by-step online portal to guide them through the complete process, from conception through permits to completion.”
Where renters are concerned, Lev is looking to enact policy that guarantees affordable lifetime rental housing to provide security and a sense of ownership to tenants.

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At a broader scale, Lev’s proposed policy is structured around limiting urban sprawl and designing new developments according to New Urbanism principles, echoing successful international examples of mixed-use, low- to medium-density developments that feature dense urban greenery and diverse public spaces. In addition, Lev has stated his explicit support for co-housing, cooperative housing and land-sharing models in the planning scheme.
According to the architect, “The planning and building process in Tasmania is extremely stringent, yet inefficient and probably the worst in the country. It needs a serious clean-up.”
“I want to plan urban villages and communities, not more isolated suburbs,” Lev said.
Part of his campaign to improve housing and planning is founded on establishing guidelines for a minimum aesthetic standard that champions local character and craft, “without unduly increase[ing] building costs or regulatory burden.”
“Beauty is not subjective. We all know where tourists like to take photos and it is not the Australian suburbs. Evidence overseas shows that building ugly is not an economic necessity and that beauty pays. We also know that local traditions and strong, unique character draw both tourists and new residents. But none can tell the country nor even the continent from looking at our new inner-city buildings,” he said.
According to Lev, this development of aesthetic guidelines “must be done professionally through a collaborative process and with much public consultation. It won’t happen overnight, but we must make a start before we lose even the last remnants of our uniquely Australian building culture to globalised anonymity.”

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Lev’s progression into politics builds upon the humanitarian focus of his architectural career. While in Sydney in 2020, he founded Architects Assist, an online registration platform allowing architects to register to provide pro bono services to people affected by the 2019–20 bushfires. For Lev, the experience “touring affected communities […] through the burnt landscapes, abandoned and empty in the midst of COVID-19 lockdowns” bore him firsthand witness to “the results of poor environmental management and urban planning.”
After settling in Tasmania, Lev built his own home from local plastic- and paint-free materials – making the plans freely downloadable online. Since then, he has constructed two larger, low-cost houses with “plans free for anyone to use again and they have been downloaded by well over 20,000 people in just the last 12 months,” Lev said.

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“I’ve been working towards solutions to the housing crisis for years, be it with my own projects, establishing housing cooperatives, giving talks or harassing politicians. […] While they seem interested, they are not interested enough,” Lev said. “Nothing has changed and meanwhile we’ve been seeing just more of the same. There is a dire need for fresh ideas and innovation and my candidacy is the logical next step to take.”
He added, “Good architects balance the boldness of their ideas with the humility of their conduct. The same should apply to politicians. I certainly hope that my candidacy and policies will inspire and encourage other architects to stand.” More

More than 780 projects were entered into the 2025 World Architecture Festival (WAF) Awards, with 460 making the shortlist – including 36 based in Australia.
The awards program recognises projects across four overarching categories: Completed Buildings, Future Projects, Interiors and Landscape, each encompassing a range of sub-categories.
Within this year’s shortlist, practices from America are the most highly represented, with China, UK, Australia, India, Canada, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, Turkey and Japan also in the top ten.
Shortlisted entrants will present to juries at the World Architecture Festival, taking place at the Miami Beach Convention Center from 12 to 14 November. Category winners will be considered for World Building of the Year, World Landscape of the Year and Future Project of the Year Awards.
Darlington Public School by FJC Studio in Sydney won the 2024 World Building of the Year. “The result of the project is poetic, a building in which topography and landscape, inside and outside, form and materials flow seamlessly in an unexpectedly delightful way,” said Paul Finch, the programme director of WAF.
The shortlisted Australian projects for 2025 are as follows:
Completed Buildings
Civic and Community
Blacktown Exercise and Sports Technology Hub – ARM Architecture
Guulabaa – Place of Koala – Gensler
Pyrmont Community Centre – Welsh and Major
Yarrila Place – BVN

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Creative Reuse
Brewery Yard, Stage 2 – Tzannes
Reddam House North Shore – AJC Architects
Rosebery Engine Yards – Group GSA
Younghusband – Woods Bagot

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Culture
Yellamundie Library – FJC Studio
Health
Canberra Hospital Expansion – BVN

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Higher Education and Research
Flinders University Health and Medical Research Building – Architectus
Munarra Centre for Regional Excellence – ARM Architecture
University of Queensland Soundshell – Kirk Studio

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Housing
One Sydney Harbour – Renzo Piano Building Workshop
Mixed-use
25 Martin Place Retail Development – Woods Bagot
388 George Street – FJC Studio
Martin Place Metro Precinct – Grimshaw, Tzannes and JPW
The Pump House – MHN Design Union and Fieldwork
Office
Brewery Yard, Stage 2 – Tzannes
Retrofit
Sirius Redevelopment – BVN
Sport
Blacktown Exercise and Sports Technology Hub – ARM Architecture
Carnegie Memorial Swimming Pool – Co.Op Studio

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Transport
Central Station – Woods Bagot in collaboration with John McAslan and Partners
Sydney Metro Martin Place Station – Grimshaw

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Future Projects
Education
AMRF Second Building – Architectus in collaboration with Aileen Sage Architects and Jacobs
The Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness – New Wing Extension – HDR

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Sport
Macquarie Point Multipurpose Stadium – Cox Architecture in association with Cumulus Studio
Interiors
Bars and Restaurants
Prefecture 48 – Bates Smart
The International – Woods Bagot
Hotels
Journey Beyond – Woods Bagot
Residential (Single Dwelling)
Eaglemont Modern House – Sky Architect Studio
Palmerston Street House – Robert Simeoni Architects
Shell House – Madeleine Blanchfield Architects
Veil – Madeleine Blanchfield Architects
Workplace (Large)
JLL Melbourne – JLL Design
Macquarie Group Global Headquarters workplace design – Architectus, Cox Architecture and Hecker Guthrie
To view the full shortlist, visit the WAF website. More

The Queensland government has opened expressions of interest (EOI) for the design of four of the new and upgraded sporting venues that will be delivered as part of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
The “pre-construction design work” sought by the government relates to proposed indoor sports centres at Moreton Bay and Logan, and stadium upgrades at the Sunshine Coast and at Barlow Park in Cairns.
According to the government’s communique, the EOI process is intended to provide “government and industry the chance to create a world-class event with generational benefits for locals,” that also “attract[s] national and global audiences.”
Their release notes, “The Queensland government is pleased to be partnering with industry in delivering a games that will make all Queenslanders proud of our state and ensure we all share in a once-in-a-lifetime legacy.”

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Meanwhile, in response to the government’s plan for the games’ infrastructure, the Australian Institute of Architects has urged the government to employ architectural expertise in project governance to avoid “critical risks” facing the games’ delivery, including “cost blowouts and poor operational performance.”
Their submission to the state government comprises five key recommendations, which, in the Institute’s words, are to:

1. Embed in-house senior architectural expertise in project governance and delivery:
Architects experienced in complex project delivery are urgently needed at the highest governance levels, including GIICA Board, senior management, government directorates and advisory panels. Include in-house heritage and environmental expertise, especially for sensitive precincts like Victoria Park.
2. Empower and expand the Office of the State Government Architect:
Ensure this office leads procurement strategy, brief development, design integrity and governance, based on successful Sydney 2000 models. It must be significantly resourced to fulfil this expanded role.
3. Procure based on value, not lowest cost:
Prioritise high-performing, multidisciplinary teams accountable to client outcomes.
4. Invest in early phases:
Allocate time and funding to detailed briefing, site planning and iterative design to reduce downstream risks and cost blowouts.
5. Establish an Olympics Design Integrity Panel:
A multidisciplinary, independent panel should oversee design quality and alignment with Games objectives from procurement through to delivery.

Queensland Chapter president Caroline Stalker said, “Without immediate action to embed design expertise and governance, we risk repeating the mistakes of past Olympic hosts who were left with cost overruns and poor legacy outcomes.”
According to Stalker, “Architects can play a pivotal role in assisting government to navigate delivery challenges. We are uniquely equipped to support cost-effective delivery, ensure long-term functionality and achieve the games’ legacy ambitions.”
“As momentum builds, we urge the government to move quickly, but not at the expense of quality, functionality or value. Rushed processes often result in inefficiencies, design errors and costly variations,” Stalker said.
The EOI for principal design consultants to deliver the aforementioned Olympic venues can be accessed online and the EOI period is open until 24 July. More

Woods Bagot has been selected to lead a major redevelopment project at Perth Airport, which includes the establishment of a new domestic terminal and an expansion of the existing international terminal.
In a statement, Perth Airport highlighted the appointment as one of the city’s largest and most significant contracts to date, following a commercial agreement between Qantas and Perth Airport that will see more than $5 billion invested in aviation infrastructure. Under the agreement, Perth Airport will become Qantas’s second-largest operational hub after Sydney.
More than twenty-four consultants and experts will be engaged with throughout the project. The team responsible for the design of the project includes Woods Bagot in collaboration with Nordic Office of Architecture and Architectus. Landscape design will be undertaken by UDLA and TCL.

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The project will deliver an expanded international terminal building and a new domestic terminal building, but also new aprons and taxiways for aircraft. According to the communique from Perth Airport, the new domestic terminal and the expanded international terminal will connect, “allowing passengers to cross between existing and new facilities.”
The communique highlighted that the design will prioritise sustainability and incorporate technology to optimise travel efficiency and connectivity between different areas of the airport.
Woods Bagot CEO Sarah Kay said the project will involve both local and international designers working together. “Perth’s new terminal will reflect the essence of a modern, vibrant and dynamic Western Australia. Sustainable design methodology and best-in-class technology will be integrated into the design, which is centred on joy and simplicity,” said Kay.

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Perth Airport’s CEO Jason Waters said the project will encompass an area equivalent to nearly 30 Optus Stadiums.
“We are focused on building a smart terminal that operates efficiently and safely and makes use of technology that improves the customer experience and operational efficiency,” said Waters.
“With the passenger journey at the top of mind we will create a seamless and intuitive terminal experience for all passengers, whether they are starting their journey, transferring or returning home.” More

A selection of wall and floor products to add warmth, durability and timeless style to any home.
Ariaply panelling by Austral Plywoods
Austral’s Ariaply panels, made from Australian Araucaria (hoop pine), bring natural warmth and elegance to residential interiors. A-grade face veneers and a three-coat system enhance the timber’s grain, offering a refined, durable and elegant finish for interior surfaces. Visit website.
Mono rug from Loom Rugs
Handwoven in India from pure wool, the Mono Freeform rug features a blend of cut and loop piles. Shown in a vibrant green tone, it adds the perfect pop of colour to living spaces and bedrooms. Customisable in size, material and colour, this rug brings a unique, textured layer to a residential setting. Visit website.

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Mineral engineered stone by Caesarstone
Caesarstone’s Mineral range of engineered stone is crafted from sustainable, silica-free materials such as recycled glass and eco- friendly resins. Its heat-resistant, non-porous and stain-free properties make it ideal for the kitchen splashback. Visit website.

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Infinity Planks by Signature Floors
Infinity Planks by Signature Floors offers durable, low-maintenance vinyl flooring.The collection is available in three thicknesses and can be installed in a linear format or herringbone pattern, with a selection of warm, nature-inspired hues – such as oak and spotted gum – mimicking those of natural woodgrains. Visit website.

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Ventura Range from Concrete Collaborative
Ventura Concrete Overlay is a sustainable terrazzo flooring incorporating up to 80 percent recycled content. With a 10 millimetre thickness, it offers durability and is free from plastics. It can be custom-coloured, with finishes including non-slip, honed or fully polished. Visit website.

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Co Lab series from Tongue and Groove
Tongue and Groove has launched Co Lab, a luxury flooring initiative produced with a host of talented designers. The first collection is Bosco, created with award-winning designer Greg Natale, which merges tessellating designs with the warmth and natural beauty of solid European oak. Visit website.

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