Allen Jack+Cottier has beaten an international field of contenders to win the Sport in Architecture Award at the 2018 World Architecture News (WAN) Awards in London on the 28th of February.
AJ+C’s winning project, the Judith Poole Sports Hall and playing fields at Abbotsleigh School in Wahroonga beat five other finalists vying for the prestigious award.
Already a multi-award winner*, the project comprises a new multi-purpose sports hall, elevated sports field, fitness room, large flexible teaching/dance studio spaces, tiered spectator seating, amenities, viewing areas, and two large undercover car parks. Its location adjacent to the existing aquatic centre and sports oval consolidates the sporting precinct of the School.
Principal architect and CEO of AJ+C Michael Heenan attended the award presentation in London accompanied by the building’s namesake Abbotsleigh retired headmistress Judith Poole.
“To see our sensitive building that sits lightly in its native Australian environment up against internationally acclaimed buildings such as the mega San Mames Stadium in Bilbao was incredible, so it was almost overwhelming when it was announced as the winner,” said Heenan.
Heenan accepted the award on behalf of the AJ+C team who started working on the building in 2012 following a three year master planning phase. The building was completed in 2015.
During the shortlisting process the judging panel commented:
“Its scale is appropriate within the context. It’s got large volumed spaces that have been particularly well handled” – Tom Jones, Senior Principal, Populous
“It’s well placed in the landscape and so well considered” – Rasti Bartek, Partner, Cundall
The other finalists included the Golden 1 Centre in Sacramento USA by AECOM, City Football Academy in Manchester UK by Rafael Vinoly Architects and the Groupama Stadium, Lyon, France by Populous. See full list of nominees
For interview opportunity with Michael Heenan please contact: Dimity Pinto – Dimity@fredcommunications.com.au – 0412 164 333
For an interview opportunity with Abbotsleigh’s current Headmistress Mrs Megan Krimmer, please contact: Alex Norton – 02 9473 7746.
—————–
Allen Jack+Cottier is a leading Australian firm offering creativity, sustainability and innovation. Since 1952 the firm has delivered award-winning residential, educational and commercial buildings.
*Previous awards for Judith Poole Sports Hall and playing fields
2017
· Ku-Ring-Gai Council People’s Choice Awards – Contemporary Design Commendation
2016
· Australian Institute of Architecture William E Kemp Award – Best Education Building in NSW
· Australian Institute of Architecture Award Commendation for Sustainability
· Timber Design Award for Timber Flooring
· Learning Environments for New Construction Major Facility
· ACSE Medium Projects Commendation Award
2015
· MBA of NSW Excellence in Construction Award – Best use of Structural Steel
· MBA of NSW Excellence in Construction Award – Sporting Facilities
Builder: Prime Constructions Pty Ltd
