Powerhouse opens entries for 2025 Holdmark Innovation Award

Entries are now open for the 2025 Holdmark Innovation Award, an annual accolade that recognises innovation and excellence in the built environment.

Now in its third year, the award will be presented to one exemplary Australian-designed project completed in 2024 that demonstrates forward-thinking solutions to challenges faced by Australia's urban environments. A prize of $10,000 will be awarded to the winning project.

Buildings, built structures or a key component in a structure's design or construction can be entered. Innovation may be demonstrated through the application of emerging technologies, regenerative practices, pioneering research or sustainable construction methods.

The jury comprises Sydney Design Week curator Keinton Butler; director of design excellence at Government Architect NSW Olivia Hyde; Professor Greg Morrison, School of Engineering, Design and Built Environment at Western Sydney University; chief operating officer of Holdmark Property Group Kevin Nassif, and co-director of Youssofzay Hart Belqis Youssofzay.

Previously awarded projects include Phive in Parramatta Square by Design Inc. with Lacoste and Stevenson, and Manuelle Gautrand Architecture, which received an award in 2023. Additionally, Wilam Ngarrang Retrofit by Kennedy Nolan with Finding Infinity was honoured with the award in 2024. Phive was selected as the winner for its "ingenious rooftop design" and effective passive climate strategies while Wilam Ngarrang Retrofit was recognised for "its delivery of an energy-efficient space with both social and sustainability agendas at its core."

Director of architecture at Kennedy Nolan Michael Macleod said, "Innovative projects can only have significant impact if people hear about them. We found the Holdmark Innovation Award to be a unique opportunity," said Macleod.

The Holdmark Innovation Award program is presented by Powerhouse in partnership with Sydney Design Week principal partner Holdmark Property Group. Applications can be made until 30 June 2025. The award will be presented to the successful recipient at the annual Sydney Design Week event in September 2025. For more information, visit the Powerhouse website.