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Celebrating the 2026 EmAGN Project Award Winners

As a proud sponsor of the Australian Institute of Architects’ EmAGN Project Award, Alspec is delighted to recognise the outstanding projects and emerging architectural professionals celebrated at the 2026 State and Territory Architecture Awards.

The EmAGN (Emerging Architects and Graduates Network) Project Award recognises projects of merit where emerging architects have made a substantial contribution through leadership, collaboration, expertise and the delivery of quality architecture. The award celebrates both an exceptional built outcome and the people helping shape the future of the profession.

 

2026 EmAGN Project Award Winners

Western Australia

Clifton House
Matthew Crawford Architects

Originally designed by renowned architect Marshall Clifton in 1951, Clifton House is a thoughtful renovation that carefully balances heritage restoration with the needs of modern family living. Through a series of strategic additions and refinements, the project restores the home’s connection to the street and courtyard while respectfully distinguishing new interventions from the original architecture.

Tasmania

Albert Hall Renewal
TERROIR

A sensitive renewal of one of Launceston’s most significant civic buildings, Albert Hall Renewal addresses long-standing accessibility and functionality challenges while strengthening the relationship between the historic hall and neighbouring City Park. Working within strict heritage constraints, TERROIR has created a contemporary insertion that enhances the experience of both landmark destinations.

South Australia

Tonsley Technical College and Flinders Factory of the Future
Das Studio

This $55 million education and research precinct brings vocational training, university research and industry collaboration together within a single learning environment. Designed with sustainability and future-focused education in mind, the project fosters knowledge sharing, innovation and real-world industry engagement through its connected and highly collaborative spaces.

Victoria

Sunbury Community Arts & Cultural Precinct
Architecture Associates with Openwork

Located within the historic Jacksons Hill precinct, this project transforms a former Female Refractory Ward and associated buildings into a vibrant arts and cultural hub. Through careful adaptive reuse and sensitive heritage interventions, the precinct now provides gallery, theatre, studio and community spaces that support creativity and cultural connection.

Queensland

Hymba Yumba Independent School Performance Hall and Arts Building
Deicke Richards

Delivering a new cultural heart for the school campus, this project combines specialist arts facilities with a flexible performance hall designed for learning, celebration and community gathering. Responding to a challenging site, the building strengthens connections to Country while supporting contemporary creative practice and cultural knowledge sharing.

New South Wales

Pier Pavilion
Besley & Spresser

Located on Sydney Harbour at Barangaroo, Pier Pavilion is a permanent civic structure designed as a place for gathering, events and public enjoyment. Its sculptural form references land, sea and sky, while its bespoke Oyster Terrazzo cladding incorporates more than half a million recycled Sydney Rock Oyster shells, celebrating the site’s natural heritage and commitment to sustainable design.

 

Supporting Emerging Architectural Talent

At Alspec, we are proud to support programs that recognise and foster the next generation of architectural leaders. This year’s EmAGN Project Award winners demonstrate the remarkable impact emerging architects are having across residential, public, educational and cultural projects throughout Australia.

We congratulate all winning practices, project teams and emerging professionals recognised across the State and Territory Awards program, and thank the Australian Institute of Architects and the EmAGN network for their ongoing commitment to nurturing architectural excellence.

We look forward to celebrating with the industry once again at the National Architecture Awards in October, where these exceptional projects will take their place on the national stage.

Check out the winners