Three renowned Australian architecture practices who worked on the design of the Martin Place Metro Precinct in Sydney’s CBD won appreciation from the jury at the 2025 Australian Good Design Awards, for their interdisciplinary and collaborative approach that contributed to the project's success.

Martin Place Metro Precinct was recognised as an Australian Good Design Award Gold Winner in the Built Environment Place Design category, with Tzannes, Grimshaw and JPW receiving the prestigious award for outstanding design quality, innovation and positive impact.

“The Martin Place Metro Precinct underpins the urban transformation of an important precinct in Sydney,” the Awards Jury comments. “It is a truly exceptional project, transforming this centrepiece of Sydney.”

According to the jury, the collaboration between multiple architectural practices, public art curators, artists and landscape designers has resulted in a world-class precinct and a delightful pedestrian and user experience.

“There is no doubt that the precinct is an exemplar of urban design excellence, delivering long-term economic, social and environmental benefits to Sydney. This project truly sets a new benchmark for design excellence,” the jury notes. “This ambitious high-density development, above and below ground, navigates and pushes the boundaries of density in a challenging planning environment by embedding the principles of good design and sustainable urbanism.”

39_Martin_Place_Tzannes_Ben Guthrie.jpg — *39 Martin Place designed by Tzannes | Photo: Ben Guthrie*

Built above the new Martin Place Metro Station, designed by Grimshaw, the Martin Place Metro Precinct comprises 1 Elizabeth, the new 39-storey world headquarters for Macquarie Group, designed by JPW, and the 28-storey commercial tower at 39 Martin Place designed by Tzannes, which features a large, multi-storey mixed-use podium.

Grimshaw’s Martin Place Metro Station is Australia’s first fully integrated station development, with five levels of retail and new underground pedestrian links to Hunter Street.

JPW’s 1 Elizabeth Street is a purpose-built global HQ for Macquarie, with its sleek, aerodynamic form enhancing sunlight access, sky views, and pedestrian comfort.

Tzannes’ design for 39 Martin Place has revitalised Sydney’s financial district, linking it to the historic 50 Martin Place and MLC buildings.

Tzannes’ Urban Design guidelines were also commended by the jury for shaping changes in the existing development controls that led to a more sustainable urban outcome for the entire precinct.

“This project truly sets a new benchmark for design excellence in this category,” the jury concludes.

Main image: 39 Martin Place designed by Tzannes | Photo: Martin Siegner

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