dwp has always been a pioneer in utilising technology to enhance the design processes. We have consistently been at the forefront of the industry, exploring new and innovative ways to incorporate technology into our workflows. One example is the early shift to a cloud-based system, which allowed for increased collaboration and streamlined communication between team members as well as clients, facilitating smoother and more productive interactions across the board. Due to our timely move to the cloud we were well prepared to move to remote working situations due to the pandemic with no interruptions to our business operations.

Now, we are leading the way in adopting innovative AI-based solutions, taking our designs to new heights. Dwp Executive Director Khun Sarinrath Kamolratanapiboon says, “We are now even more equipped to analyse data and generate designs that are not only visually appealing but also highly functional. We are able to provide our clients with information and multiple design options and solutions which allows them to make more informed decisions at a faster rate than conventional design processes. The use of AI-based designs has furthermore allowed us to implement more design solutions, in line with our ethos of ‘design for a better world’”.

Our commitment to embracing new technologies and innovative approaches to design has cemented our reputation as a leader in the field. Our dedication to explore and adopt new technologies will undoubtedly continue to drive our success and set us apart as an innovative and forward-thinking global design firm.

For more information please contact dwp Studio Creative Director, Thomas Meier at thomas.me@dwp.com

The Blueprint: A Customer Experience Center sits at the heart of Expo 2020 Dubai, right next to the Al Wasl Plaza in the future Siemens building. The Experience center that speaks to Siemens as a partner with the capacity to see more potential all around us through an open, intelligent, intuitive framework. A promise to enable the next level of customers’ digital transformation journeys. An invitation to explore Siemens’ blueprint for future cities, and a more resilient world.

The design brief was to create a destination (as part of Expo) reflective of the Siemens brand and include a flexible working environment where Siemens employees can gather and collaborate.

The concept design by dwp was shaped by a deep understanding of the brand and its evolution. The beautiful, rich history of Siemens was the starting point. Visitors start exploring this the moment they step into the space and move around the core of the building. Being carried through the space by the movement of the design, the history steps back as the design moves into the futuristic shape of the “future” – a smooth, organic growth of the exterior projection that wraps around the facade & the boundary of the space; defining the movement through the space and guiding the visitors around while showing the innovative & futuristic Siemens projects.

The one element that made this project unique in delivery as the creative initiative of presenting the concept through a video. This was the starting point of a great journey.

As part of World Expo in Dubai, the process had to follow the internal structure. Designing this project locally while meeting international standards, as well as staying fully compliant to Expo standards was a progressive journey. Collaborating internationally and locally through workshops with the client and the contractor assured the project would end in success for all.

Creative planning was applied in this design. The inclusion of a flexible work environment using movable furniture, adjustable desks and surfaces that can be written on and/ or projected on are shaping the future ways of working. In collaboration with the digital consultant, we defined the journey into the future through the innovative experiential spaces of the Experience Centre.
Through a creative planning process we made sure the guest experience begins from the moment they step into the space.

The balance between the raw finishes (reflective of the honest, raw and rich history of the brand) and neat, polished and reflective finishes (reflective of the innovation & futuristic approach) bring a real company sense to the space, allowing the visitor to explore the company from creation into the future.

From the very beginning the entire project considered the sustainable impact on the environment – being one of the spaces that remained after Expo 2020 finished. The space will be used by Siemens employees every day for the next few years. All materials have been carefully selected to comply with Expo Sustainable Standards as well as being sourced locally. Greenery integration and the wellbeing of employees by creating a space for collaboration and relaxation were also considered as part of the overarching scheme.

Australia’s sporting success over the years has generated national pride and shared identity.
Australian people are passionate about sports and the drive for improvement in athletic performance has seen investment by elite sporting organisations and state governments in recent years. The increasing number of high performance centres provide the facilities to enable athletes to perform to the very best of their abilities. dwp is at the forefront of design thinking and innovation in the architecture of high performance centres and community sports and recreational facilities in Australia.

The dwp designed redevelopment of Concord Oval for the City of Canada Bay NSW and Wests Tigers Rugby League Football Club is the latest sports high performance centre to receive recognition for its high quality design and facilities.

The Concord Oval was initially developed in 1985 as a match venue for the 1987 Rugby World Cup. The upgrade included the construction of the Eastern & Western grandstands incorporating training and spectator facilities. These facilities provided a valuable and much loved community resource for 35 years but needed a refresh in the last few years. The redevelopment has a greater range of facilities to support contemporary sports and recreation requirements and the population growth within the region. The City of Canada Bay council was determined to deliver a new facility that provides passive recreation opportunities as much as organised sporting activities.

In 2018 Wests Tigers Rugby League Football Club set out to create the Centre of Excellence at the Concord Oval, a multi million dollar development funded by NSW state and Australian federal governments and the local council. During this time City of Canada Bay Council engaged dwp as lead architect for the redevelopment.

The work included the demolition of all existing buildings with a new structure on the Western and Northern sides of the oval for community and professional sports organisations. The high performance facility for Wests Tigers includes training gym, sports science and medicine facilities, aquatic recovery, player amenities, auditorium and meeting rooms, club lounge and function spaces, club administration rooms and a cafe as part of the upgrade.

dwp’s sustainable design approach to the Concord Oval includes passive design features, end-use water efficiency, a PV renewable energy system with battery, high efficiency lighting controls system and rainwater harvesting.

Recently completed and now in use, the redeveloped Concord Oval is receiving an immense amount of publicity for the high quality state of the art facilities. dwp Sydney studio director Ivana Simkovic was recently featured in Architecture and Design and shared insight into the design process. To read the article click here link: https://www.architectureanddesign.com.au/news/the-rise-and-rise-of-high-performances-centres#

dwp has designed many award winning education facilities with projects in Australia and Asia. The most recent project to be completed in Australia is the St John the Baptist Catholic School located in the Adelaide suburb of Plympton in South Australia. A coeducational school that caters to students from Reception to Year 6. It is a really joyful learning environment that has received great feedback from staff, families and students.

The St John the Baptist School Master Plan originated from the popular school’s need for additional classroom spaces to meet the increasing school enrolments. The renovation and expansion of the school has been planned in stages, with the Stage 1 works completed in December 2021.

Comprising alterations and additions to an existing two-storey building, the Stage 1 Works has already created a striking new presence to Anzac Highway, the main arterial road between the city and the seaside suburbs of Glenelg and Brighton. The bold internal and external colour choices provide a distinctive contrast to the existing streetscape, and established the school as a local landmark.

The angular architectural geometry carried throughout the design concept pays a contemporary homage to the adjacent Parish Church, constructed in the 1960’s. The element of ‘nature’ is referenced throughout the design through feature perforated metal balustrading, colour selections, oriented strand board detailing and window signage. Subtle tree motifs on the first floor balcony balustrade transition from solid to open to provide shade to ground floor spaces while allowing students on the first floor visual connection to their surroundings.

The learning environment is more than simply the building and the outdoor spaces are configured to allow for a variety of formal teaching spaces and informal learning opportunities. The external aluminium fins, reminiscent of tree trunks, provide an engaging linear element to the facades that change as you move around the building. To combine functionality with visual excitement for the school community, dwp designed a feature oversized downpipes which provide a captivating display of water during wet days. External bench seating encourages outdoor classes, social activities and exploration in a covered and safe environment.

The expansion of the school also includes a new breakout space connecting nine classrooms, and designed to encourage art displays and performances. STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Maths) facilities and learning pods as well as upholstered reading nooks providing a zone for one-on-one teaching or quiet reflection and a feature window seat with a direct view towards the adjacent Parish have also been added to the first floor upgrade.

Keeping in line with dwp’s motto of ‘Design for a Better World’ materials were selected for their longevity, ease of maintenance and sustainability. Louvred windows and sliding glazed doors to each classroom allow an abundance of natural ventilation throughout. High level clerestory windows to the south assist in maintaining a light, bright interior.

The Stage 1 Works have been designed with future stages in mind. A future Teaching Kitchen/ Canteen, additional classrooms, Sports Hall and supplementary Breakout spaces are planned to further improve the capacity of the school.

dwp Associate Design Director and lead on this project, Amanda Rebbeck shared, ‘“Successfully completed during various COVID shutdowns, unusual South Australian weather patterns, and several changes in school leadership, the success of the St John the Baptist School project is a testament to the open-minded and engaging client and an accommodating head contractor, Partek. I look forward to working with the team on future stages of the school’s Master Plan vision.”

We are thrilled to announce that the dwp designed Eric Tweedale Stadium has been announced as a World Architecture Festival 2022 finalist in 2 categories.

It is a great honour to have been selected as a finalist for #WAF22 which is one of the most prestigious events dedicated to the architecture and development industry. Past events have been held in Barcelona, Singapore and Berlin. The 2022 event will be held in Lisbon, Portugal at the end of November and beginning of December where each finalist will present their project to an esteemed panel of judges.

The Eric Tweedale Stadium, which has already received much industry attention and awards for its innovative and sustainable design, has been selected as a finalist in the category of Completed Buildings – Sport and for the Timber Prize. Offering a fantastic sports facility including a grandstand with change rooms, a multipurpose room, first-floor function space, a commercial kitchen, and an outdoor viewing deck, the Eric Tweedale Stadium has been credited for its outstanding sustainable design. The use of a mass timber structure in the Stadium is the first use of glulam timber for this type of facility in Australia, representing an impressive achievement in timber engineering. The stadium provides an active contribution to climate protection of around 109t CO2e.

The dwp residential team is proud to finally showcase their 36 storey twin tower project, located in the Sathorn district of Bangkok. Sathorn has long become one of the city’s most well known and exclusive areas. It consists not only of the city’s CBD but is swarming with restaurants, bars, shopping malls and embassies as well as many residential towers and complexes. PMT Property added yet another signature condominium to the district by developing 125 Sathorn Condo.

125 Sathorn was conceived and imagined under the design concept to combine nature with urbanity. The more conscientious approach incorporates space and structure, where the two main residential buildings have been designed to ensure uncrowded living spaces, optimum airflow and natural lighting, while remaining inclusive and thoughtful to its natural surroundings. 

Inspired by the four seasons, dwp highlighted each public area by using different colours, materials and textures to represent summer, winter, autumn and spring. Featuring premium indoor and outdoor facilities and amenities that span over 4,500 sq.m., the project’s communal areas have been thoughtfully created to cater to every occasion. The addition of unique public areas such as an onsen room and a summer garden lounge add to the appeal of this property and the luxurious lifestyle it offers to its tenants. 

dwp | design worldwide partnership delivers outstanding projects for clients based on our ethos ‘design for a better world’. 

dwp is a founding signatory of the ‘Architects Declare’ commitment to environmental sustainability and believes strongly in the ability to exist and develop without depleting the natural resources for future generations. With the construction industry being accountable for almost half of the global emissions, we are well placed to make a substantial impact for better sustainable outcomes during construction and over the lifetime of buildings. As architects and designers we are leaders and specifiers in the construction industry, where our efforts of sustainable design practices can and will have a huge beneficial impact for clients and the planet. 

Group Sustainability Leader of dwp, Kit Boochangkool, is a sustainability professional with wide experience from the USA, UK and around Asia. Kit has a personal passion in sustainability which he developed into a professional skill by studying global energy and climate policy in London. Since then he has worked at KMPG where he was part of the team that pioneered sustainable practices for large companies across various sectors. 

Kit’s deep knowledge and passion assists dwp in implementing a conscientious, proactive and achievable approach to sustainability both within the company and in all current and future architecture and design projects. Concepts of circular economies to specific responsible design strategies, from air quality, biophilic design and education to water management and zero waste, dwp is implementing processes to ensure that at every step sustainability measures are discussed and applied.

Joining dwp was an exciting new beginning for Kit:

“Joining a global company like dwp, working in an industry that has such a large contribution to global emissions, allows me to shape real changes in the environment on such a large scale. dwp is at the forefront of sustainability, leading the construction industry towards being carbon neutral. We have already implemented sustainability initiatives across all dwp studios, we measure our energy use, water consumption and other environmental factors and we share the opportunities for efficiencies so that all studios and all of our people can work as responsibly as possible.”  

“By the end of 2022 we will be the only international architecture firm that will have all architects and designers accredited in the LEED sustainable design and construction assessment system. It is through our construction projects where dwp can most influence better environmental outcomes and have a bigger impact.  LEED is a global benchmark and allows our design teams to demonstrate the measurable benefits to clients.”  

“We use the knowledge that I bring as an environmental sustainability specialist, with many years of experience advising industries and corporations to support our design teams and to demonstrate measurable, tangible benefits to our clients in terms of reduced operational running costs and better buildings. At dwp we are authentically delivering design for a better world.” 

We are excited about the newly opened dwp designed Courtyard by Marriott located in North Pattaya, Thailand. Pattaya is a famous tourist destination and getaway spot for locals, close to the country’s capital of Bangkok. Offering beautiful beaches along the Gulf of Thailand, endless shopping opportunities, activity parks for kids and a pulsating nightlife, Pattaya is a great destination for all kinds of travelers. 

The new Courtyard by Marriott is perfectly situated just a few minutes from North Pattaya Beach and steps away from Pattaya’s upscale shopping destinations. Our dwp design concept for the hotel responds both to the brand standards while drawing on the ‘rhythms of the sea and sand’. The public areas are filled with motifs that derive from gentle natural patterns inspired by the ocean and the beach. A combination of mid-tone materials, with limited colour accents are used to compliment these natural tones.

The hotel has multiple food and beverage outlets, including an all day diner that was designed using natural materials and features an open kitchen which helps animate the space throughout the day. There is a very different experience to be had on the 9th floor where guests can enjoy a light meal and refreshing cocktail at the Surf Bar by the pool. The adjacent kids club makes this an attractive spot for parents as they can enjoy some down time whilst the kids are having fun.

For travelers that want to keep up with their gym routine the hotel features a fitness studio with stunning views of Pattaya Bay. Whether you are traveling for business or pleasure, the Courtyard by Marriott is a modern comfort hotel with everything you need for an enjoyable getaway for anyone. 

Designed by our dwp lifestyle design team out of the Bangkok Studio, we are thrilled to see this hotel now open and marking the return of tourists from all over the world to this beautiful holiday destination. 

The design of learning environments is a major focus for dwp | design worldwide partnership with a number of specialists who lead educational facilities projects. Our leaders in the education sector have delivered outstanding results ranging from the addition of specific learning facilities to existing establishments to the masterplan and development of larger educational institutions.

The most recently completed project is the Nihon University in Newcastle NSW, designed by Japanese architect Azusa Sekkei in collaboration with dwp architects. Nihon University is a well known Japanese private university, which currently has one of the highest student populations, with the majority of campuses in Tokyo and surrounding areas. In 2016 the University acquired the former Newcastle courthouse as its inaugural international campus.

The main purpose of the campus is to provide a centre for the international language exchange program for existing Nihon University students. The adaptive reuse and refurbishment of the heritage building, adds considerable value to the community of Newcastle as the complex is positioned to become a cultural centre, promoting exchange at various levels.

The Campus involves the repurposing of the state heritage listed former Newcastle Courthouse (c1892), and the introduction of two new sympathetic built forms. The eastern residential wing addition is dedicated to student accommodation offering 108 beds, whilst the western wing addition is dedicated to providing educational spaces. The original courthouse building has been restored to house administration, conference and management facilities.

The main conceptual driver was to deliver an outcome that is sympathetic and aligned with the existing Courthouse building. A simple, expressive, timeless, symmetrical end product, with a touch of Japanese influence. The new built forms on either side of the Courthouse are clearly defined elements expressing the old and new.

The design has respectfully considered the local character and heritage through non-obtrusive elements, such as a simple, modest and timeless design, with a material and colour palette that compliments and respects the existing building and neighbourhood.

Keeping dwp’s drive for sustainable design in mind and in line with the company ethos of ‘design for a better world’ the team has carefully integrated multiple sustainability measures throughout the development of the Nihon University Campus. Particularly noteworthy is the adaptive re-use of the existing heritage building, retaining the embodied energy and lessening the ecological footprint. Other sustainability measures include waste reduction during construction and occupation, the creation of high quality indoor environment, energy and water efficient systems and fabric and green transport initiatives. The building has achieved a minimum 4 Star Green Star equivalency rating.

The Nihon University will greatly benefit Nihon staff and students by providing them with a facility that will open cultural exchange opportunities between Japan and Australia. The design creates a welcoming and equitable environment, promoting a diverse multicultural experience for users and the public. The campus will bring together people from wide ranging backgrounds and experiences, promoting international relationships to build a more inclusive community. The facility will be used as a cultural hub, creating the unique circumstance of adding value and improvement to the site, community and beyond.

dwp | design worldwide partnership has grown it’s market presence through it’s global studios, with exponential growth in the Middle East over the last 12 months. In support of this we saw the relocation of dwp’s Regional Managing Director, Asia & ME, Charlie Kelly, to Dubai in the second quarter of 2021.

dwp has recognised the Middle East region as an expanding market with dwp offering a competitive edge, delivering state-of-the-art projects, setting benchmarks in sectors including hospitality, commercial and residential.

Recent awards and industry recognition demonstrates the quality of work delivered by the dwp Dubai Studio. dwp designed W Hotels The Palm and Abu Dhabi – Yas Island both received awards for exceptional interior design and the Dubai Smart office was awarded for innovative workplace design.

The dwp Dubai Studio is now delighted to announce promotions and new additions to the team.

“In an effort to continue to deliver landmark projects it is essential to strategically grow from within through leadership promotions as well as adding new staff. It was important for us at dwp to grow our team with people that are not only skilled in their field of work but have a deep knowledge of the ME market and also align with the dwp ethos of ‘design for a better world’. Our aim is to continuously design cutting edge projects with sustainability front of mind.”
Charlie Kelly, Regional Managing Director (Asia +ME) dwp | design worldwide partnership.

Adriana Graur, who joined dwp in 2019 is promoted to Design Director. Adriana has the unique ability to understand the client needs and deliver designs that exceed expectations through research and enquiry. As self proclaimed ‘most curious designer you will ever meet’ Adriana leaves no stone unturned and always goes above and beyond to establish valued and lasting client relationships.

Within dwp Adriana is a great leader and mentor and her passion for the industry at large shows in her commitment to continuously teach, learn and contribute. Her experience lies predominantly in workplace, residential design, hospitality and food and beverage design. Sustainability plays an important role in Adriana’s approach to design and she works tirelessly at implementing sustainable design practices within the company globally. Adriana Graur was nominated for the Interior Designer of the Year award in the CID Awards 2021.

“Defining new ways of working that are fluid, collaborative and brave, by bringing an amazing team of creative and inspiring people together, this is a journey that I am delighted to be a part of. I am passionate about changing the work environment because our work influences more than just the workplace; we shape people’s lives, their behaviour and their footprint on the world.”
Adriana Graur, Design Director dwp Dubai

To add strength, energy and vitality dwp also is delighted to announce new senior staff appointments, Kanika Puri and Tala Melek.

Kanika Puri is appointed as Design Director, and she has over 18 years of extensive experience as an interior designer across various sectors predominantly in hospitality and F&B design, but also across residential, workplace and retail. She is known for her innovative design and planning, for which her projects have won and been nominated for multiple design awards. She has the ability to adjust to varying project scales, leading teams to deliver effectively and always achieving the desired results. Kanika is a passionate designer and has an uncompromising attitude towards detailing and quality of design execution. With an impressive portfolio of completed projects, her understanding of following through from design to completion is one of her strongest suits. Her positive attitude and enthusiasm for high quality design inspires both clients and her colleagues at dwp.

“I believe design is all about the human experiences that we create for people when we design our projects, and the design journey we can take our clients on as we deliver high quality outcomes for them, through the narrative stories that we build our designs on. That is what makes design tangible, impactful and exciting. My continuous endeavour is to keep trying to inspire and connect with people via design.”
Kanika Puri, Design Director dwp Dubai

Tala Melek is excited to rejoin dwp as Business Development Director. Tala is no stranger to dwp and she returns with a deep understanding of the ME market and the design industry in particular. She will no doubt be instrumental in the ongoing growth of dwp in the region. Tala is a qualified British Architectural Engineer, having studied at Westminster University in London. Her career path started at Dar Al Handasah design offices in Cairo before she redirected her attention to Business Development with a focus over the last 10+ years on design, development and construction in the ME.

Tala’s strengths arise from her diverse work experience in the construction field & extensive knowledge of the region & culture. Having lived and worked in multiple locations throughout the ME and Europe, and being fluent in both English and Arabic, Tala has been able to widen her contact circles and networking initiatives. She is a well respected and highly valued professional.

“I am very excited about my return to dwp. I have watched dwp grow it’s presence and reputation in the ME region and I look forward to further strengthening the existing client relationships and establishing new ones. My main focus currently is on offering our clients the skills that best suit the needs of our client’s projects, this is about serving our clients and delivering high quality outcomes, which then builds and nurtures long term strategic relationships. Those relationships with major clients position us to uncover and secure exciting projects that suit the capabilities and passions of the talented dwp team.”
Tala Melek, Business Development Director dwp Dubai

The Shrewsbury International school in Bangkok was opened in 2003. The school curriculum and ethos is based on over 450 years of Shrewsbury pedagogical heritage from the UK. With an inspiring purpose-built school building on the banks of the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok, Shrewsbury International school has quickly become one of the leading international schools in Thailand, setting a benchmark for international education provision.

The school has expanded with a growing student population and increased demand, the school continues to offer pupils the highest quality facilities through renovations and additions to the school grounds, enabling students to achieve the best of their ability and compete on international standards.

dwp | design worldwide partnership recently collaborated in the design of the new senior school at the riverside location, a 1.1 billion Thai baht project that has dramatically increased the provision for Science, Mathematics, Computing, Innovation, Robotics, Sixth-Form, Higher Education Counselling, Dining and Sport. Dwp worked in partnership with lead architect Robert Philip Holmes of City Realty Company Ltd. and other consultants including MEP Design Consultant, PU Associates Co.,Ltd., to achieve a successful outcome for the Shrewsbury community.

The facilities are housed within the Sir David Lees Innovation Centre, incorporating the multi level 4000sqm Stephen Holroyd Sixth Form Commons and a Sports Performance Complex which includes a 340sqm peerless Strength and Conditioning Zone designed for professional athletes.

To support the already strong achievements in the faculties of mathematics and science, the design included sixteen new mathematics classrooms and 18 university-standard laboratories.

Our specialist dwp education design team delivered school facilities that are open, bright and motivating spaces created to offer the Shrewsbury school community an ideal environment to both collaborate and when appropriate to work autonomously. This is based on many years of experience for the dwp team in creating learning environments.

In addition to the student and staff facilities, dwp designed the new school reception area and school shop. As the first point of contact for many visitors, parents and students alike, the reception area needed to be welcoming and legible, with a contemporary flexible workplace for staff, while embodying the identity of the school. dwp implemented clear zoning of public and restricted areas for child safety purposes. The overall design includes bright open spaces, clean lines, neutral colours the use of light timber with blue accents strategically placed throughout the space.

Multiple successes for dwp in the Design Awards Season – The Delightful Gift of Industry Recognition

In recent weeks dwp | design worldwide partnership has been honoured to have multiple projects, across different sectors, nominated for prestigious architecture and design industry awards. Receiving industry recognition sits alongside client satisfaction as one of the highest accolades for any project. Our team at dwp is proud to be receiving this form of acknowledgement in multiple countries and across different sectors, demonstrating that we are delivering the highest standard designs in all that we do.

Four Awards for Bangkok Luxury Interiors Project

Condo development has raised the benchmark in luxury condominium design especially within the South-East Asian region. dwp’s lifestyle team based out of our Bangkok studio has designed multiple inspirational and luxurious living spaces throughout. Lifestyle and hospitality design is a major speciality for dwp. We are delighted that one of our latest projects has received the top awards in four categories at the PropertyGuru Thailand Property Awards 2021. Alongside ‘Best Luxury Condo Interior Design’ (dwp) it also was awarded ‘Best Smart Building Design’, ‘Best Luxury Condo Architectural Design’ and ‘Best Luxury Condo Development’.

“Lifestyle and Hospitality design excellence has been the cornerstone of dwp design work in Asia since our practice was founded by Scott Whittaker and others in the 1990s. We have since grown and strengthened further, with added impetus and now we are delivering projects in Japan, New Zealand and the Middle East. We have reestablished our studios in Shanghai and Singapore over the last few years and winning awards and industry recognition is a fantastic accolade for our global design team. I would particularly like to congratulate Nadia Dahlan and the Bangkok dwp lifestyle design studio.”
Scott Whittaker,Group Creative Director – dwp | design worldwide partnership.

More Awards for dwp architects for Australia Sports Projects

The sports sector has done particularly well recently with multiple projects recognised across different award programs. The AU National Sports & Physical Activity Awards 2021 shortlisted two dwp designed projects of three overall entries as finalists for the category of ‘Facility Design and Development’. On the 9th December 2021 the Oakleigh Recreation Centre was announced as the winner of this award. This project was also the recipient of the Community Facility of the Year’ at Park and Leisure Australia’s state (VIC/ TAS) 2021 Awards for Excellence in July 2021, making this it’s second valued industry acknowledgment. The Oakleigh design team was led by David Huntley as project lead architect, along with Percy Damian Lopez, Kellie Adler and many others from the dwp Melbourne Studio.

The dwp designed Eric Tweedale Stadium at Granville Park also was on the shortlist for the same award and has also received much attention since its completion and its official opening last month. On the 30th November it was the recipient of the respected Australian Timber Design Awards, as the overall winner as well as award winner for Commercial & Public Buildings and Excellence in Engineering. This award is particularly significant to dwp due to it’s sustainable design, a perfect example of dwp’s design ethos and pledge to ‘Design for a Better world’.

“Sustainable design is central to what we do at dwp and therefore environmental sustainability was an important objective of the project and timber construction was key to achieving this. The use of a mass timber structure in the Stadium is the first use of glulam timber for this type of facility in Australia and represents an impressive achievement and benchmark in timber engineering.”
Ivana Simkovic, Design Director Sydney – dwp | design worldwide partnership.

The Australian Timber Design Awards celebrate the design and construction of structures that feature timber. Now in their 22nd year, the Awards are distinguished by a proud heritage of winning projects that demonstrate innovation. The Awards promote and encourage outstanding timber design. Winning this award is testament to dwp’s exceptional design skills, commitment to sustainability and dedication to dwp’s practice ethos ‘Design for a Better world’.

The design of the Eric Tweedale Stadium is driven by the stadium’s connection to the local environment and history of the Cumberland Plains. Located within Granville Park, it’s form and materiality respond to the site’s heritage as much as to its current sporting environment. The Stadium includes a grandstand with change rooms, multipurpose room, first-floor function space, commercial kitchen and outdoor viewing deck. The glulam roof cantilevers over eight meters over the seating, creating a simple yet strikingly beautiful form that also gives historical reference to the forest that once dominated the site. The use of a mass timber structure in the Stadium is the first use of glulam timber for this type of facility in Australia, representing an impressive achievement in architectural design and timber engineering.

“The Eric Tweedale Stadium is a truly outstanding project and it is the outcome of great work by a cohesive project team led by an exceptional Design Director, Ivana Simkovic of dwp Sydney studio. The team included the Cumberland City Council client with a clear vision, the supportive end-users and project stakeholders, skilled engineers and resilient builders who worked through the challenges of the last two years. They have collectively created a beautiful building that celebrates its place and its purpose. It’s simply fantastic to win the Australian Timber Design Award 2021. I congratulate everyone involved and I especially want to thank Cumberland City Council for supporting our design vision. We also would like to extend our appreciation to our colleagues at Northrop Engineers who shared the drive for sustainable design solutions, Belmadar, the contractor and Rubner who supplied the timber, as well as all other consultants who worked with us on this project. Thank you to the Timber Development Association for this recognition – we are honoured to be the recipients of this award.”
Michael Hegarty, CEO – dwp | design worldwide partnership

dwp designed Hotel Chadstone Melbourne, M Gallery by Sofitel, which received the LIV Award for Luxury Hotel Design earlier this year was once again shortlisted for the Eat Drink Design Awards held in Melbourne on the 2nd December 2021. Congratulations to James Campbell, project leader with Kellie Adler and the dwp Melbourne Studio.

dwp has delivered some outstanding and innovative designs in the Retirement Living sector. The most recent project, Europa on Alma designed for Bolton Clarke was shortlisted as a finalist in the Project of the Year – Ageing in Place category for the 9th Asia Pacific Eldercare Innovation Awards. This project is a first class independent living facility created specifically for the ‘baby boomers’ who remain actively involved in the community and are not ready to wind down. The dwp design team was led by Design Director David Brian and included Sean Logue, Kellie Adler and James Campbell.