Last year, we celebrated our inaugural sponsorship of the Public Design Award at the Australian Interior Design Awards. We were truly honoured to sponsor such a diverse category, with designs so holistically committed to enriching the experience for their many varied users.

Cox Architecture took out the award last year for their reenvisioning of the The Waltzing Matilda Centre in Winton, Queensland. Their considerations towards its history, location and environment makes it a well-rounded experience for users, as well as a dynamic and flexible space to cater for the building’s programing. A well deserved win.

Aida 2020 Waltzing Matilda Centre

The Waltzing Matilda Centre. Photography by Casey Vallance.

What we learned last year

On top of the jury’s strong focus on using architecture and design to create a journey for users, we found that creating meaningful design connections really work to round out the design experience.

Perhaps overwhelmingly though, we learned that Australian designers are more fearless than ever. As a result of bold stylistic choices, which led to experimentation and risk taking, we were left with an impressive pool of innovative shortlisted projects across categories.

Aida 2020 Perth Hospital

Perth Children's Hospital. Photography by Shannon McGrath.

You can read more about last year’s awards here: 5 Things We Learned At The 2019 AIDAs

Designing the journey

This year, we are looking forward to celebrating brilliant Australian design that dedicates itself to its users, taking them on a considered journey that works to tell the story of the project’s how and why.

Of course, we are heavily invested in championing architecture and design, but more so, the people and teams who work so hard to bring their inspired visions to life.

We’re looking forward to another excellent evening dedicated to our industry.

In case you missed it, you can find last year’s winners here.