Sustainability Awards | Architecture & Design

Sound materials for sound environments: Q&A with Jonathan Mountfort, Creative Director at Autex Acoustics

Autex Acoustics has long been one of the most prominent leaders in sustainable innovation. In this interview, Jonathan Mountfort talks about the importance of single materials, simple designs and circularity; points to collaboration and open exchange of ideas as essential to progress; and reminds us that, together, we have the power to create a regenerative future.

Billi's holistic approach to drinking water safety and environmental responsibility

Against the global backdrop of climate emergency and growing water scarcity concerns, the safety and quality of our drinking water are paramount. Naturally, the architecture, design, and construction industry shoulders a profound responsibility, and in Australia, this duty is amplified by factors like the harsh, variable climate, high agricultural demand, urbanisation, and the increasing frequency of drought.

Sika’s solutions safeguard vital water infrastructure: Sustainable solutions at Prospect Reservoir

In an era increasingly defined by water scarcity and climate uncertainty, the longevity and resilience of water infrastructure becomes paramount. Emblematic of this consistently increasing focus on critical urban structures, the recent joint refurbishment of Sydney’s Prospect Reservoir highlights the significance and environmental benefits of proactive maintenance.

Reaching for the sun: Verosol’s data-driven journey to a carbon-positive future

The journey that has seen Verosol transform from a trailblazing newcomer that disrupted the solar shading textile space to a global industry leader has been punctuated by the company’s unwavering commitment to sustainable innovation – and the unwillingness to accept the status quo.

7 tips to entering and winning the 2024 Sustainability Awards

Participating in the 2024 Sustainability Awards can significantly boost your project’s recognition and credibility in the sustainable building industry. Winning an award not only highlights your commitment to sustainability but also places you among the leaders in innovative and eco-friendly design.

Sustainable trends in new single dwellings

Sustainability in Australia’s residential architecture has come along in leaps and bounds over the past 10-15 years. Minimum sustainability standards are being mandated to increasingly stringent guidelines, forcing the industry to both think and operate differently, and ultimately benefiting all of us (and our natural environment).

Sustainability trends in interior design

Australia's design scene has always been a melting pot of influences, reflecting the country’s intricate cultural heritage, our beloved sunshine-soaked lifestyle and deep appreciation of the outdoors and the natural world. These defining characteristics tie in with the idea of sustainability, and in recent years we have seen Australian design become increasingly environment-centric.

Modest numbers, maximal impact

The Sustainability Awards' Small Sustainable Practice category recognises modest architecture and design firms with a mighty impact. Last year, the spotlight shone brightly on Melbourne's Maxa Design, a team of seven with a passion for crafting exceptional, sustainable homes.

Sustainability trends in public buildings

Gone are the ageing tropes of public buildings as sterile, uniform environments. Modern public buildings are hubs for innovative architecture, balancing form over function and always keeping their main priority in mind - to serve the public.

Ferrars and York: An idyllic sustainable marvel

The Sustainability Awards' Best of the Best category recognises the pinnacle of Australian achievement in sustainable design and construction. Last year's winner, Ferrars & York, stands as a testament to the transformative power of sustainable principles in multi-residential dwellings.

Products with foresight: The Bondor Metecno difference

Our readers are likely aware of the significant changes introduced in the National Construction Code (NCC) 2022 – particularly when it comes to energy efficiency and condensation management for residential buildings. These changes are now active in most States, with more stringent requirements mooted for NCC 2025.

Fully certified: third-party quality assurance with Bondor Metecno

When it comes to insulation, performance matters. But as any designer or specifier knows, verifying the credentials of individual products – let alone all the products in a job – is an impossible task. This is why third-party certifications are essential in the modern construction industry, and play an important role in assuring compliance with Australia’s construction codes