Enter the Adaptive Reuse category at the Sustainability Awards 2025

The Sustainability Awards 2025 will once again celebrate outstanding achievements in sustainable design, and the Adaptive Reuse category, sponsored by Bondor Metecno, recognises projects that transform existing buildings while preserving their historical and architectural integrity.

Adaptive reuse plays a critical role in sustainable architecture by reducing waste, conserving resources, and maintaining a tangible connection to the past. Instead of demolishing and rebuilding, this approach gives new purpose to structures, enhancing their functionality while respecting their original character. 

Whether a heritage-listed building or a more contemporary structure, projects in this category showcase how thoughtful design can seamlessly integrate past and present.

Entering this category offers a unique opportunity to gain recognition for sustainable innovation. Projects that successfully blend history with contemporary design are at the forefront of responsible architecture, setting a benchmark for best practices in the industry. A nomination or win in this category serves as a testament to expertise, creativity, and a commitment to environmental responsibility.

A successful entry in this category is one that demonstrates a deep respect for a building’s historical significance while introducing new functionality that aligns with modern needs. Sensitive restoration, sustainable materials, and innovative repurposing play a crucial role in making these projects stand out. 

The best examples strike a balance between preservation and progress, ensuring that the original structure remains a vital part of its environment while embracing contemporary efficiency and usability.

With Bondor Metecno sponsoring this category, the focus on sustainability and energy efficiency is reinforced. As a leader in insulated panel technology, Bondor Metecno supports architectural solutions that prioritise performance and longevity, making them a fitting partner for an award that celebrates the transformation of existing spaces into sustainable, functional places.

Entries open for the 2025 program on May 7, click here to be notified. 

Image: Last year's winner 119 Redfern Aileen Sage with Djinjama, Jean Rice, Noni Boyd and the City of Sydney / Photography by Hamish McIntosh