Are you this year’s Editor’s Choice?

The Editor’s Choice Award at the Sustainability Awards 2025, a prestigious accolade sponsored by James Hardie, is a special honour, selected by the editorial team at Architecture & Design, recognising a project that goes beyond sustainability metrics to make a profound impact on its local community.

Unlike other categories, there is no direct entry for this award. Instead, all shortlisted projects are automatically considered based on their engagement with and contribution to the communities they serve. 

A winning project will demonstrate a deep understanding of local needs, incorporating thoughtful design solutions that enhance both social and environmental sustainability. 

Whether through extensive consultation, innovative placemaking, or the creation of inclusive and accessible spaces, this award highlights architecture’s role in building stronger, more resilient communities.

The selection process is led by Architecture & Design’s Editor, Branko Miletic, and Digital Editor, Clémence Carayol, who carefully assess projects for their impact beyond the built form.   

The focus is on projects that respond meaningfully to their context, ensuring that sustainability is not only measured in energy efficiency or material choices but also in long-term social value. 

A successful project will integrate sustainable design principles while fostering a sense of belonging and connection. Whether a public facility, residential development, or adaptive reuse project, the emphasis is on design that prioritises people as much as place.

Winning the Editor’s Choice Award offers national recognition for a project’s holistic approach to sustainability and community engagement. It highlights leadership in architecture that extends beyond environmental concerns to actively improve lives, setting a benchmark for socially responsible design. 

The award reflects the evolving nature of sustainability, acknowledging that truly impactful architecture serves both the planet and its people.

This category is proudly sponsored by James Hardie, a leader in innovative and sustainable building solutions. With a commitment to durability, efficiency, and responsible material sourcing, James Hardie supports projects that redefine sustainability in architecture while enhancing community spaces. Their sponsorship reflects a shared vision for environmentally conscious, long-lasting, and people-focused design.

Entries will be opening on 7 May, click here to get notified.

Image: Last year's Editor's Choice winner, Barker College Maths and Student Hub / Photography by Brett Boardman, Martin Mischkuling, Grant Leslie