Two Murray Bridge projects recognised at SA Architecture Awards
Phillips/Pilkington Architects and a consortium led by Mulloway Studio have won awards for the Moorundi health centre and a wharf redevelopment.
Two new developments in Murray Bridge have been recognised among the best examples of contemporary architecture in the state.
The Moorundi health centre and Murray Bridge’s new lower wharf were both singled out at the South Australian Architecture Awards, presented in Adelaide on Saturday night.
Phillips/Pilkington Architects won the prestigious Keith Neighbour Award for Commercial Architecture for the Moorundi health service’s multi-million-dollar new facility, which opened last year on Adelaide Road.
The architecture firm, Ngarrindjeri elders, the Mardawi Sister Weavers, Jordan Lovegrove and Harley Hall were also recognised with the Creative Collaboration Prize for the same project.
It was recognised with commendations for interior and sustainable architecture, too.
The centre was co-designed with the Ngarrindjeri community with culture at its heart, from the earthy colours and Indigenous designs used throughout the building to the woven artworks which hang in its foyer.
“The result is a welcoming and inclusive clinic, deeply connected to people and place,” the judging panel said.
“The facility transcends its clinical brief by reinforcing identity, encouraging visitation, and meaningfully improving health outcomes for the Ngarrindjeri people it proudly serves.”
Visitations to the health service have increased by 23 per cent since it moved into the new building.
Judges describe Moorundi's new building as "a powerful expression of cultural self-determination and creative collaboration, more than 20 years in the making". Photos: David Sievers.
Meanwhile, a commendation was given to Mulloway Studio, Aspect Studios and Terroir for Port Mobilong, the redevelopment of Murray Bridge’s lower timber wharf.
The $5 million project replaced ageing, rickety infrastructure with a safe and modern deck, shelter, seating and signage.
Both award-winning projects received funding from the federal government.
Awards director Dave Bickmore commended all winners for responding with “clarity and purpose” to an increasingly complex environment for architects, characterised by rising costs and global uncertainty.
“These projects reflect the realities of constraint while rising above them, placing people at the centre of the design process,” he said.
“A confident use of colour and inventive form-making indicate a shift away from unnecessary excess and signal a broader movement toward doing more with less, resulting in architecture that is thoughtful, resourceful and deeply considered.”
- Read more: Moorundi health centre’s opening fulfils a 23-year-old dream
- Read more: Murray Bridge’s new timber wharf is officially open
