Outstanding architecture

Twenty-seven projects, ranging in scale from a small house to a multi-level carpark building, were recognised in the 2026 southern architecture awards in Dunedin last night.

Run by Te Kāhui Whaihanga New Zealand Institute of Architects, the awards celebrate the best buildings in Otago and Southland.

The Ayrburn Precinct, by SA Studio, was a double winner, claiming awards in the heritage and hospitality categories for its adaptation of Ayrburn Homestead at Arrowtown. The jury noted how the architects carefully balanced heritage conservation with contemporary use, allowing the building to become a restaurant while keeping its strong historic character.

Other successful projects included a ‘‘brew hall’’, a spa, a school redevelopment, and Skyline Carpark in Queenstown.

As usual for the southern region, the housing category was especially strong with 11 projects from the greater Wānaka/Queenstown area being recognised, the NZIA said in a press release.

A particular standout was Garden House by Sarah Ritchie, which the jury praised for its thoughtful use of recycled and repurposed materials. Combined with high levels of insulation and triple glazing, the home performed as well as it looked, delivering comfort and sustainability within a compact 111sq m floor plan.

‘‘This year, we have seen many projects emerging as a result of the post-Covid environment,’’ jury convener and architect Andrea O’Connor, of Oakley Gray Architects, said.

‘‘The remarkably high volume of work submitted in the residential categories highlights the profound psychological impact that Covid had on living environments.

‘‘The work quality has been exceptionally high, showcasing meticulous attention to detail, technical precision, and thoughtful design.’’

Ms O’Connor was joined on the jury by Lianne Cox (Studio of Pacific Architecture), Regan Hall (McCoy and Wixon Architects) and Ben Hudson (Ben Hudson Architects). — Allied Media