PLACE Category Winner:

Kennedy Nolan for Always

The jury unanimously selected Kennedy Nolan for Always as the Place category winner. This exemplary approach focuses on a sensitive and holistic design methodology that combines the inside and outside seamlessly. The jurors noted that the concept extended through to the execution thoughtfully and sensitively anchored in its location. The project drew on the reaches of memory, the evocative power of recognising form, colour, texture and light, and fused it with the resonance of shared memories, history and landscapes. 

Kennedy Nolan, a well-renowned studio with a reputation for delivering highly personalised solutions for their clients, took a considered approach to both the site and client needs, with elegant and pared-back material choices in construction and furnishing. The practice is known to dispense with the separation of Architecture and Interior Design as distinct disciplines to take a singular approach to design. As presented here

Always blends with the physical environment through sensitive and reflective material selections to connect and engage with the landscape, architecture, our surroundings and history. Always is a building for 'place' and simultaneously explains 'place'.

The interior is well articulated and draws on authentic materials appropriate for the setting. The design brings dark, quiet spaces to a beach house, using materials to create intimacy, refuge and a sense of calm. 

This award highlights an outstanding 'place' sensitive to its surrounding environment whilst creating a functional space—a sanctuary respecting the landscape. It is a well-conceived and realised project that shows a sophisticated response to the site fusing human and natural spaces.

Category: Place

Designers and Project Team:
Patrick Kennedy, Design Architect
Rachel Nolan, Design Architect
Catherine Blamey, Project Architect
Adriana Hanna, Design Architect
Susannah Lempriere, Project Architect
Peter Cole, Graduate of Architecture
Amanda Oliver, Landscape
Jake Nash, Artist