The Materials and Minerals Science Learning and Research Building and The Plasso designed by John Wardle Architects in association with Swanbury Penglase Architects. Image by Max Creasy.

The Materials and Minerals Science Learning and Research Building and The Plasso designed by John Wardle Architects in association with Swanbury Penglase Architects has won top honours at the Australian Institute of Architects’ South Australian Architecture Awards for 2012.

The science hub received the coveted Jack McConnell Award for Public Architecture, the awards jury noting:

“The attention to design and detail in the Materials and Minerals complex is exemplary. The execution overall makes this a valuable resource and demonstration of the University’s commitment to research and the broader community, made possible by impressive architecture.

“The tour de force is the sculptural and asymmetrical ceiling. Beautifully conceived, detailed and crafted, the folds focus on the centre of the space and integrate with the acoustic wall panelling to provide a unique venue for the facility, the University and public.”

In total 33 prizes and commendations were awarded.

Other key award winners included Norwood House by Dimitty Andersen Architects, which received the John S Chappel Award for Residential Architecture — Houses for its creative and bold addition to a traditional bluestone cottage.

Norwood House by Dimitty Andersen Architects. Image by Sam Noonan.

The Newell Platten Award for Multiple Housing was awarded to the ‘sustainable enclave’ of Lochiel Park Affordable Apartments by Greenway Architects — concept by Phillips Pilkington Architects.

Lochiel Park Affordable Apartments by Greenway Architects — concept by Phillips Pilkington Architects. Image by Aldo Trissi.

Adelaide Studios, by Grieve Gillett and Cox Richardson Architects in association, received the Keith Neighbour Award for Commercial Architecture for the ‘studio buildings which stand alone as strong architectural forms while avoiding dominating the restored heritage building’.

Oxigen Halifax Studio by Oxigen with Woods Bagot received the Robert Dickson Award for Interior Architecture and the Colorbond Award for Steel Architecture for ‘successfully incorporating artwork and local craftsmanship, careful detailing, and an experimental approach to material use, selection and recycling’.

Oxigen Halifax Studio by Oxigen with Woods Bagot. Image by Dan Schultz.

The Gavin Walkley Award for Urban Design went to the Belair National Park Redevelopment by Shannon Architects and the David Saunders Award for Heritage was awarded to the Museum of Economic Botany Conservation Works by Grieve Gillett.

Folding Rundle by Sean Humphries Architect + Sasha Radjenovich Architect received the City of Adelaide Prize for its ‘intelligent and nuanced design’.