- The Australian Interior Design Awards continue to spotlight excellence in interior design across diverse sectors.
- A record-breaking 222 projects were shortlisted, signaling a surge in creativity and innovation within the design community.
- There's been a noticeable shift towards elevated and thought-out designs, with a focus on sustainability and natural materials like stone and timber.
In its 21st year, the Australian Interior Design Awards once again stood as a beacon of excellence, celebrating outstanding achievements in interior design across residential, commercial, and public sectors. This year’s edition, marked by a record-breaking 222 shortlisted projects, surpassed the previous year’s remarkable record of 215 entries.
Unprecedented competition and exceptional quality
Reflecting on the fierce competition among entries, the 2024 Jury remarked on the exceptional quality of projects submitted. “Competition amongst entries in the 2024 Australian Interior Design Awards was unlike any year before. The calibre of projects was exceptionally high and while exquisite craftsmanship and detailing reigned, an emphasis on strong colour, natural light and refined materiality prevailed.”
Elevated designs and collaborative spaces
In contrast to previous years, the designs showcased in 2024 were characterised by their elevated sophistication and meticulous attention to detail. Embracing communal spaces to foster collaboration and inspire innovation, this year’s entries reflected a keen understanding of contemporary needs and aspirations.
Sustainability takes centre stage
A notable trend observed by the jury was the heightened emphasis on sustainability across entries. “Sustainability was at the forefront of this year’s entries and its thoughtful consideration is what made so many projects stand out,” noted the jury, convened by Geraldine Maher, Director of Maher Design.
Comprising esteemed professionals from various corners of the design industry, the rest of the jury is made up of the following:
- Richard Coulson, Director, COX Architecture (QLD)
- Madeline Sewall, Director of Houses, Breathe Architecture (VIC)
- Beatrix Rowe, Principal, Beatrix Rowe Interior Design (VIC)
- Isabelle Toland, Co-Director and Co-Founder, Aileen Sage Architects (NSW)
- Adele Winteridge, Founder and Design Director, Foolscap Studio (VIC)
- David Flack, Principal, Flack Studio (VIC)
- Paul Foskett, Principal and Head of Interior Design APAC, Populous (VIC)
- Katherine Ashe, Director, Vittino Ashe Architects (WA)
“In the face of pressing climate and housing affordability concerns, designers showcased their ability to balance sustainability, liveability, spatial efficiency, material innovation, and creativity.”
Australian Interior Design Awards, 2024 Jury
Residential design dominates
Residential Design emerged as the standout category, boasting the largest number of shortlisted entries. From luxurious abodes to cozy retreats, the projects showcased a diverse range of styles and approaches. The integration of architecture seamlessly with interior design, coupled with a return to natural materials such as stone and timber, underscored a commitment to authenticity and warmth.
“Overall, this year’s entries are particularly colourful and vibrant,” observed the jury. “The top Residential Design projects are laden with integrity and incorporate a strong sense of minimalism and spare use of materials juxtaposed with large monolithic objects.”
A night of celebration
The eagerly awaited zenith of the Australian Interior Design Awards will be the glamorous Award ceremony, scheduled to take place at the Sofitel Wentworth in Sydney on Friday, June 14th, 2024. With excitement building within the design community, anticipation is high for this prestigious event, which promises to celebrate excellence and innovation while reaffirming its status as a beacon of inspiration in the world of interior design.
