The Australian Capital Territory Architecture Awards this year landed on community co-design, environmental responsibility, and adaptive reuse as key for winning entrants.
The awards by the Australian Institute of Architects consist of a panel of five industry experts and architects selected 25 winners and special honours recipients that revealed a deep commitment to sustainability, with climate-conscious design extending beyond the sustainable architecture category.
North Wright Compact Housing by Trella Architecture and Interiors was awarded both the residential and sustainability awards, recognising an eco-friendly and affordable alternative to suburban sprawl and high-rise apartments.
The design tackled the “missing middle” by meeting urban density challenges with sustainable compact housing that does not compromise energy efficiency, green space or natural light.
Jury chair Alex Lawlor said the “missing middle” was a common theme among this year’s winners as low-rise, medium-density properties become a leading solution to meet a severe housing crisis driven by a rapidly growing population, underinvestment in social and public housing, and a historic low in residential building approvals.
It was not a residential typology overly familiar to Canberra, Lawlor said, but as the population density changes, there would be more examples of “density done well.”
“Some of this year’s winners are examples of stellar missing middle residential concepts that would look equally at home in other urban areas.”
Beyond addressing the housing crisis, community wellbeing and connection were at the centre of this year’s winning designs. The focus was on inclusivity, social cohesion and accessibility.
The highest honour, the 2026 Canberra Medallion, was awarded to Gugan Gulwan by COX Architecture with CK Architecture Australia. The purpose-built Aboriginal youth centre was designed to act as a cultural hub and gathering space for First Nations youth and families.
Responding to local needs, the design integrates cultural elements, including artwork and storytelling, into its lived environment, while addressing consumer demand for eco-conscious development, achieving status as the first operational building in the ACT to receive a 5 Star Green Star certification. The facility features all electric services, carbon reduced construction, climate resilience and resource efficiency, including one of the most prominent sustainability trends, thermally efficient window glazing.
By being both energy efficient and developed in collaboration with First Nations people, the building represents a trend towards architecture that caters to community needs in the long term.
View the full list for the 2026 ACT Architecture Awards here.
