Create NSW and the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS) have announced that Naomi Milgrom will be chair of the Jury for the international design competition for the new Powerhouse Precinct in Parramatta.

Australia’s New South Wales minister for the Arts, Don Harwin recently launched the open global search for an outstanding world-class team to design the landmark precinct, encompassing an iconic new museum, public space and pedestrian bridge.

The two-stage competition invites expressions of interest from Australian as well as international design teams and also actively encourages creative and intellectual collaborations between established and emerging talent.

Calling on Australian and international architects to enter the design competition, Craig Limkin, executive director for Create Infrastructure and specialist advisor to the Jury, says, “This is an incredible chance to design a purpose-built venue and community gathering space that will further improve the liveability of the Central River City and enable all families to access the museum’s collection.”

Limkin added, “We’re extremely excited to confirm Naomi as our jury chair. She will be supported by MAAS chief executive Lisa Havilah, Australian architect Wendy Lewin and international architect David Gianotten, who will be involved in assessing the proposals.”

An influential Australian entrepreneur, Milgrom was most recently the commissioner of the Australian Pavilion at the Venice Art Biennale 2017. Describing the new Powerhouse Precinct at Parramatta as one of the most exciting cultural projects in the country, she says, “The museum will play an important role in renewing the places and neighbourhoods where it will be a focus, but more importantly, it will be a catalyst for imagination, connection and creativity in the community of which it will be a part.”

MAAS Trust president, professor Barney Glover commented, “As we plan for the new museum we will continue to be a museum that holds collaboration at its core. We look forward to establishing a Powerhouse Precinct at Parramatta that inspires and connects people of all ages and backgrounds and integrates into the cultural life of Parramatta and Greater Sydney.”

MAAS chief executive, Lisa Havilah added, “This is a transformative time for arts and culture in Australia. This next chapter builds upon the museum's rich history. The Powerhouse Precinct at Parramatta is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build a renewed museum.”

The deadline for Expressions of Interest is 22:00 AEDT/ 11:00 GMT Monday 18 March 2019.

Architecture & Design Team

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