2025 ArchiTeam Awards, Innovation & Contribution Award, 'Placemaking Clarence Valley'

Judges Citation:

This category recognises exceptional contributions to architecture beyond building design, celebrating initiatives, research and advocacy.

The category highlights the diverse ways architects can influence the built environment and society through leadership, education, and innovative practice.

Equity Office with Professor Mel Dodd x Monash Architecture x Fire to Flourish have developed novel methods for engaging non-fiscal stakeholders to be involved in design from inception to completion.

The project engaged four localities on Bundjalung, Gumbaynggirr and Yaegl Country (Woombah, Glenreagh, Nymboida and Blicks) where local participants were invited to reimagine public spaces after catastrophic damage from the 2019/20 bushfires, 2022 pandemic and Northern Rivers floods.

Equity Office with Professor Mel Dodd x Monash Architecture x Fire to Flourish - Placemaking Clarence Valley assisted with the expenditure of over $1 million in program funding and has built links between community groups and Clarence Valley Council.

Equity Office with Professor Mel Dodd x Monash Architecture x Fire to Flourish's work develops ways in which academia can work between practice and community development to transform the Architectural discipline’s contribution to built environment recovery.