Jury Citation:⁠
Lacebark in Norwest by Smart Design Studio is a remarkable synthesis of art, architecture and sustainability.⁠
Its twin wings form a striking gateway to a new centre in Sydney’s Hills District, demonstrating that dense urban housing can support zero carbon ambitions and reduce urban heat.⁠
The building’s beauty is not skin deep. It is generated by solar performance. Extensive analysis of the annual sun path, orientation and heat gain informs the angled façades, curved balconies and shading blades. These elements admit more winter sun, protect apartments from summer heat and support natural ventilation, turning environmental intelligence into architectural expression.⁠
Despite its scale and civic presence, Lacebark offers apartments of intimacy, comfort and privacy. Generous balconies, solid spandrels and finely modulated brickwork create a sense of refuge and everyday practicality, allowing residents to live comfortably, hang out washing, or simply move through their homes and balconies wearing whatever they choose to wear… or not.⁠
Drawing on the site’s history as a brick manufacturing plant, the brickwork gives the building a singular sculptural identity, durability and long term civic presence. Lacebark is an elegant and disciplined model for sustainable apartment design.⁠