At The Arc Agency, we know design is more than what meets the eye—it's about creating places that connect, inspire and uplift communities. That’s why we’re thrilled to share highlights from the 2025 Australian Urban Design Awards, where outstanding contributions across planning, architecture, and public realm design were recognised for their lasting impact.

This year’s awards—co-convened by the Planning Institute of Australia, the Australian Institute of Architects, and the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects—shine a spotlight on projects and people reimagining the future of our cities.

Guests immersed themselves in cutting-edge products and transformative solutions, connected with Sydney’s influential architects and designers, and enjoyed an evening filled with gourmet cuisine, premium beverages, and vibrant entertainment.

Built Outcomes

Recognising places that bring new life to our urban environments.

Mary’s Place (Dalby, QLD) – Blight Rayner Architecture + Wild Studio
A much-loved town square has risen from the ashes of a former hotel site, transforming into a civic heart that welcomes all. A powerful example of design-led regional renewal.

Central Park Public Domain (Sydney, NSW) – Turf Design Studio + Jeppe Aagaard Andersen
A brewery-turned-botanic escape in the middle of Sydney. This carefully crafted network of streets, green spaces and parkland shows what’s possible when public realm is prioritised from the ground up.

Rozelle Parklands (Sydney, NSW) – Transport for NSW Urban Design
What was once a railyard is now a sprawling, biodiverse parkland linking Sydney’s inner west. A celebration of adaptive reuse and ecological reconnection.

Research & Advocacy

Design thinking that goes beyond the build.

Healthy Higher Density Living for Families with Children – Centre for Population Health (Western Sydney LHD)
This essential guide reframes how we plan and design apartments and dense communities—making sure families don’t just fit, but thrive.

Strategic Design & Policy

Big picture thinking, delivered with local relevance.

Beyond A to B – Transport for NSW
This visionary rethink of movement networks positions transport as a tool for wellbeing, equity and stronger communities—not just mobility.

Cockatoo Island Wareamah Masterplan (Sydney Harbour) – Tyrrell Studio + collaborators
A culturally sensitive, multi-disciplinary masterplan that listens deeply to Country while imagining a future where history, ecology and access co-exist.

Martin Place Metro Precinct Urban Design Framework – Tzannes
A bold framework weaving transit, public realm and architecture together in the heart of Sydney’s CBD. A blueprint for integrated, future-ready precincts.

Urban Design Champions

Individuals creating ripples of change through leadership and advocacy.

Chris Thomas – For his instrumental role within government, embedding design quality and integrity into urban infrastructure projects across NSW.

Jeremy McLeod (Breathe Architecture) – For continually championing sustainable, community-first housing and influencing national conversations around better urban outcomes.

At The Arc Agency, we’re proud to champion the work of those shaping the built environment with intention and heart. These award-winning projects and individuals remind us why design matters—and why we remain committed to connecting visionary creators with the people and products that help bring great ideas to life.

See more about the winners here