The Australian Institute of Architects has announced the 2026 recipients of the Emerging Architect Prize across its national and international chapters, recognising rising professionals who are shaping the future of architectural practice through design excellence, leadership, education, and community engagement.
The annual prize highlights individuals and collaborations advancing the profession’s role in the public sphere.
This year’s chapter winners will now proceed to national judging, with the overall national recipient to be announced later in the year.
Winners were named across eight chapters, with no award presented in the Northern Territory due to insufficient nominations.
The 2026 recipients are Tynan Freeman in the Australian Capital Territory, Hayden Federico in the International Chapter, Simon Rochowski in New South Wales, Dominika Richards in Queensland, Jasmine Placentino in South Australia, Guy Edwards in Tasmania, Madeline Sewall in Victoria, and Mike Sneyd in Western Australia.
Across the country, this year’s recipients reflect a strong focus on housing, sustainability, and social impact.
In the ACT, Tynan Freeman of Stewart Architecture was recognised for his leadership in housing design, particularly projects that rethink urban density while maintaining liveability.
His work spans multi-residential developments, apartment renovations, and research-driven design approaches that respond to climate and community needs.
Internationally, Hayden Federico of The Buchan Group was acknowledged for his leadership in expanding Australian architectural practice abroad, including establishing a Dubai studio.
His work demonstrates an ability to navigate complex global contexts while maintaining design quality and collaborative engagement.
In New South Wales, Simon Rochowski of studioplusthree was recognised for a practice grounded in craftsmanship, sustainability, and material sensitivity.
His contributions extend beyond built work to advocacy, mentoring, and policy engagement, particularly in improving professional standards.
Queensland recipient Dominika Richards of Deicke Richards Architects was commended for her leadership in sustainability and climate advocacy.
Her work integrates environmental responsibility with community-focused design, alongside active involvement in industry groups and education initiatives.
South Australia’s Jasmine Placentino, director of Parabolica, was honoured for her design approach and strong advocacy for public architecture and professional mentoring.
Her work bridges practice and public discourse, reinforcing architecture’s cultural and civic role.
In Tasmania, Guy Edwards of BE-Architects was recognised for his work in socially responsive housing, including projects that redefine expectations for community housing and promote dignity through design.
His contributions also extend to policy and education.
Victoria’s Madeline Sewall of Up to Something was awarded for her leadership in sustainable design and public engagement.
Her work spans major housing projects, education initiatives, and widely shared resources that promote accessible sustainability practices across the profession.
Western Australia’s Mike Sneyd of EKD Architects was recognised for his work in regional and remote contexts, particularly in northern Australia.
Based in Broome, his practice emphasises culturally responsive design, environmental performance, and strong engagement with Indigenous communities.
Collectively, the 2026 winners demonstrate the breadth of emerging architectural practice in Australia, with a shared commitment to addressing contemporary challenges such as housing affordability, climate change, and equitable access to well-designed environments.
