Architecture prize for Herald writer who turns ‘somewhat inaccessible’ into stories that resonate

Sydney Morning Herald senior reporter Julie Power has been awarded the Australian Institute of Architects’ 2025 NSW President’s Prize for her reporting and impact on architecture.

Elizabeth Carpenter, the president of the NSW chapter of the Australian Institute of Architects, said architects had a tendency to be “somewhat inaccessible”.

Sydney Morning Herald senior reporter Julie Power.Credit: Louise Kennerley

“We have a tendency to talk in ‘archi-speak’, which can be misconstrued as either arrogant or privileged,” she said.

Speaking at the annual event on Thursday, Carpenter said Power’s jargon-free stories had highlighted how architecture can benefit the public.

“I also like to think Julie’s clear and engaging writing is the connective tissue between government, councils and developers as well as architects and, importantly, readers.”

Loading

Power’s contribution was especially important now, Carpenter said, given the need for innovative and imaginative housing solutions and the importance of mitigating the impact of a changing climate on the urban environment.

Carpenter, who is also the managing principal of FJCStudio architecture practice, said Power’s “unique and fresh take on the world, with a human centred focus to ground each story” promoted a public understanding of the role architecture played in shaping the city.

Accepting the award, Power, who has been lay juror on the NSW annual architecture awards, said she had been “entranced by the power of architecture to change lives”.

Last year’s award was given to Dr Caroline Butler-Bowdon, the NSW State Librarian, and State Library of NSW for its program, “The Year of Architecture”.

“Architecture has the power to make people happy, like the wonderful home built pro bono for the Cobargo Santa [after fires razed his home],” Power said.

Local Santa Dave Rugendyke and his wife, Barbara, in their new home in Cobargo, in 2021. Credit: Angi High

Power also fondly recalled the Night Sky house by architect Peter Stutchbury in the Blue Mountains, which allowed the homeowner and astronomer Basil Borun to see the stars without leaving his wheelchair in the middle of his living room.

Stories by Power have demonstrated the power of architecture to protect people from flood and fire, like Leura’s Eco House project; showcased sustainable homes, like the small home designed by architect Adam Haddow; and shown how good design can improve everyday things we take for granted, from the Sydney Metro, to public bathrooms, community centres and animal shelters.

Jo Williams with her cavoodles Cooper and Rosie in her apartment in Indi Sydney, which is exclusively build-to-rent and featured in Power’s apartment review series. Credit: Sitthixay Ditthavong

Power said she was very proud to have introduced a series on apartment life at a time when the city was moving to increased density.

“I want to show potential apartment buyers what is possible, and showcase examples of good design,” she said.

Most Viewed in National

Loading