Walyalup Civic Centre takes out WA's top architecture award

The City of Fremantle’s Walyalup Civic Centre has taken out the top prize at the Australian Institute of Architects WA Awards.

The building, designed by Fremantle’s internationally renowned Kerry Hill Architects, was awarded the George Temple Poole Award at a special ceremony last night.

The centre also won the Julius Elischer Award for Interior Architecture, the Jeffrey Howlett Award for Public Architecture, the John Septimus Roe Award for Urban Design and a commendation in the Sustainable Architecture category.

In a big night for Fremantle, Hocking Heritage and Architecture were also recognised with the Heritage Architecture award for their work on the historic Fremantle Town Hall.

WA Architecture Awards Chair of Juries Simon Pendal described the Walyalup Civic Centre as a beautifully designed building that is effortless in its simplicity, a place that is intuitive to enjoy and welcoming to its community.

“For the architects, the resolution of a complex programme within the project has allowed for access through the building at varying times over multiple levels in a manner that lifts expectations and then delivers,” Dr Pendal said.

“It has become a place that welcomes the entire community.

“Not only does the building boast spaces of efficiency, economy and elegance but also sustainable design.

“Sustainability initiatives include a continuous perforated-metal veil providing shade, windows that automatically adjust to save energy and courtyards with deciduous trees to create a microclimate.”

Fremantle Mayor Hannah Fitzhardinge said the awards were worthy recognition of the work of Kerry Hill Architects and all of the City of Fremantle staff who contributed to the project.

“The fact the Walyalup Civic Centre has been recognised across so many categories, as well as winning the major award, speaks to the success of the architects in designing a building that delivers on so many fronts,” Mayor Fitzhardinge said.

“It’s a building that will stand the test of time and I acknowledge the bravery and foresight of the previous council who committed to this project.

“Judges noted the building was both confident but also simple, welcoming, and intuitive. As someone who is fortunate enough to work here every day I wholeheartedly agree.

“It’s joyous to see how the community has embraced the many spaces and places this project has created.”

The Walyalup Civic Centre was a key component in the $270 million renewal of Fremantle’s civic heart undertaken by the City of Fremantle in partnership with Sirona Urban.

In addition to the Walyalup Civic Centre and library, the City of Fremantle has also rejuvenated the public spaces around Walyalup Koort, including a new Fremantle-themed adventure playground.

Sirona’s contribution to the project included the redevelopment of the old Myer and Queensgate sites to create offices for more than 1,800 state government workers and the FOMO food, art, amusement and retail precinct.

For more information please visit walyalupkoort.com.