Brought to you by Alspec, this category is open to architects/designers in their first five years of their career and recognises an outstanding achievement or development in the field of sustainable and/or environmental architecture planning or design across any of the building categories.

“At Alspec, sustainability means designing and delivering innovative aluminium systems that support energy efficiency, durability, and responsible environmental practices. Supporting the Emerging Sustainable Architect/Designer category reflects our commitment to fostering the next generation of designers who are shaping a more sustainable built environment,” says Lucy Kendall, Alspec National Marketing Manager.

This year, the shortlisted entrants were:

Denise Widjaja (ARCH)

Denise is an Interior Designer with a rich background spanning the Education, Workplace, Health, and Sports & Leisure sectors. As a certified LEED Green Associate, Denise is deeply passionate about sustainability and the mindful use of materials. She has a unique appreciation for the raw and expressive, often showcasing finished elements to highlight their authenticity and natural beauty.

Dominika Richards (Deicke Richards)

Dominika is a registered architect at Deicke Richards with over 7 years’ architectural experience across a wide range of projects in multi-residential and commercial sectors.

Dominika finds fulfilment in working on affordable housing projects as well as having experience across independent living, education, health, and community projects. Dominika is the Sustainability Lead at Deicke Richards and has a passion for advancing socially and ecologically sustainable design practices. She is a committee member for AIA Qld Climate and Sustainability Action Group (CASC) and facilitates the AIA Living Design Series webinars.

Gabrielle Pavicic (Green Building Council of Australia)

Gabrielle Pavicic is an emerging leader in sustainable design, currently serving as Green Star Program Lead at the Green Building Council of Australia.

With a background in architecture and interior design, Gabrielle brings a practical, design-informed approach to shaping more sustainable outcomes across the built environment. Her strength lies in bridging design thinking with technical delivery – and using that to drive real, measurable change.

Gagandeep Jadhav (Steensen Varming)

Gagandeep Jadhav is a Sustainability Consultant (Designer) at Steensen Varming, working at the intersection of architectural design and environmental performance. With a Bachelor’s in Architecture Design and a Master’s in Architectural Science, Gagandeep brings hands-on experience from working in architectural practices across Australia and internationally. He has a rare ability to translate high-level sustainability goals into integrated, buildable design strategies.

Photography by Sejal Shetye.

Now in its 19th year, the Sustainability Awards is Australia’s longest running and most prestigious program celebrating excellence in sustainable design and architecture. On 19 November 2025, winners across 18 categories will be announced at the five-star Gala Evening at Sydney Town Hall.

The same day, the Sustainability Summit at The Fullerton Hotel, Sydney, and streamed online, offers a day long CPD program led by industry experts to educate and inspire the Australian architecture and design community. Tickets for the Summit are available now.

Main image: 2024 Emerging Sustainable Architect/Designer winner - Sophie Canaris - DunnHillam Architects/ Supplied.

To enquire about limited tickets to the Gala Evening, email info@sustainablebuildingawards.com.au

Branko Miletic

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