The Western Australian chapter of the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects (AILA)  has commemorated the best landscape architecture from across the state, with 12 innovative projects taking home prizes.

Showcasing innovative design for public spaces and forward-thinking environmental planning, AILA is the peak body of landscape architecture across the continent. In the lead-up to the nationwide competition, each state will present their best entries in competition. 

Last night (Friday 30 May), it was Western Australia’s turn to shine the spotlight on its brightest offerings, from a field of 20 entries across categories spanning play spaces, gardens and healthcare facilities. 

WA Medal top honour goes to Bunbury nature reserve

Maidens Reserve, Bunbury, designed by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation & Attractions. Photo: David Deves

The overall winner of the evening was the Bunbury-based Maidens Reserve, announced at a lavish event held at the historic Perth Royal Yacht Club. Receiving the top prize – the WA Medal – the coastal nature reserve boasts a myriad of hiking trails, waterside lookouts and tranquil picnic spots.

A joint effort between the City of Bunbury (adjacent land manager) and the City of Bunbury Co-Design Access Panel (accessibility specialists), the Maidens Reserve project was designed by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation & Attractions. It received high praise from AILA WA jury chair Amanda Mannolin, whose verdict was nothing short of ebullient.

“Through subtle interventions and careful restoration, the project enhances both access and ecological integrity, allowing the landscape to heal while welcoming more people to experience it,” Mannolini said.

The jury commended the project for its sensitive design, which minimised environmental impact while enhancing community engagement, interweaving “built form seamlessly into the natural setting”. 

“This is a landmark example of regional landscape architecture that offers a bold, memorable, and deeply inclusive experience for all,” Mannolini said.

The landscape project received two further commendations that evening, honoured with an Award of Excellence in the Parks & Open Space category as well as a Regional Achievement Award. 

The Oval at Subi East a multi-award winner 

The Oval, Subi East, designed by UDLA + OCULUS. Photo: Yvonne Doherty

The Oval at Subiaco East took home three separate prizes at this year’s ceremony. Designed by UDLA + OCULUS, the redevelopment masterplan was applauded for its intuitive, open-plan reinvention of the existing manmade landscape. For its work, the Perth-based design partners were given an Award of Excellence in the Cultural Heritage category, as well as two further Landscape Architecture Awards in the Civic Landscape and Parks & Open Space categories. 

The jury was impressed by the project’s sensitive balance of community requirements as well as the sizeable technical demands of the build overall. “Leadership in Indigenous engagement is central to its success, shifting from consultation to co-decision-making with Traditional Owners,” the jury said in its evaluation.

Middleton Beach another big winner 

Middleton Beach Foreshore Stage 1, designed by See Design and City of Albany. Photo: David Deves

A renewal project situated on one of Albany’s most revered stretches of coastline took home two major awards. The Middleton Beach Foreshore Stage 1 redesign, delivered in collaboration with See Design and City of Albany, received the Award of Excellence in Civic Landscape and the coveted Regional Excellence award.

The project was commended for its response to coastal erosion, while the designers’ use of complementary construction materials generated positive input from the judges. 

“The design leverages the site’s natural beauty and applies a restrained, elegant material palette to shape a series of multifunctional public spaces that improve beach access and amenity,” the jury said.

The project’s discreetly designed sea wall, which protects against erosion, also drew praise from the judges. Its seamless integration into the landscape not only proved visually impressive but, as the judges noted, would ensure “resilience and continued public use for generations to come”.

Lead image of Maidens Reserve, Bunbury, designed by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation & Attractions. Photo: David Deves

Related: Iconic Cairns landmarks recognised at architects awards here.