Two PAYCE projects turn major victories at UDIA Design Awards for Excellence.

From : 22 August, 2014

The UDIA NSW Award winners were announced on Wednesday 20th August 2014

Two PAYCE projects have taken out major awards in this year's Sydney Design Awards announced on Wednesday 20th August. East Village at Victoria Park in Zetland won the Architecture-Mixed Use Constructed category and Washington Park in Riverwood won the award for Urban Design.

All five PAYCE projects entered in the awards were named Finalists in their respective categories.

Mr Brian Boyd, Managing Director of PAYCE

PAYCE's Managing Director, Brian Boyd said the industry's recognition of both projects was much appreciated. Mr Boyd thanked the partners in the project, the designers, the architects and congratulated the community, saying "It's a great result to have so many projects as finalists and testimony to the outstanding work of our project teams and everyone at PAYCE, as well as our joint venture partners; Sekisui House Australia and NSW Land and Housing Corporation."

Mr Brian Boyd stated "I am very proud that two of our landmark projects have received recognition by the Industry, it is very much appreciated that two very unique developments have gained recognition by the industry community.

"It is exciting to see PAYCE recognised for both design innovation and urban renewal. Both East Village and Washington Park are quite unique projects in their own way. East Village showcases a unique residential and retail environment while Washington Park marks a defining transformation of a suburb," stated Mr Boyd.

Dominic Sullivan - General Manager of PAYCE Accepts the Award for East Village

Accepting the award for East Village, PAYCE's General Manager, Dominic Sullivan said the project is a landmark development, offering not only premium accommodation, but a unique urban marketplace featuring over 50 providores, restaurateurs and specialist retailers.

"East Village is an important project in the new suburb of Victoria Park, which is well on the way to realising its objective as a vibrant, modern destination with a great sense of community," he said.

East Village which comprises 206 apartments and over 32,700 square metres of retail and commercial businesses will be officially opened this coming October.

"Residents who are due to move in shortly will enjoy a special lifestyle in a relaxing and warm environment and at the same time feel they are part of a village community with a one of a kind shopping centre located just below," he said.

"The residents will also have their own private sky park covering 6,000 square metres to relax in and enjoy with family and friends.

Mr Sullivan said Washington Park was equally deserving of its award for Urban Design.

"This is a successful public-private partnership between PAYCE and the NSW Government that has breathed fresh, new life into the area," he said.

"Washington Park is an innovative residential concept, providing a mix of social and private accommodation."

"The project is a showcase for how master-planned urban renewal projects can revitalise an area and bring communities closer together," Mr Sullivan said.

The estate presently comprises five buildings, each with its own character, surrounded by extensive parklands and a garden plaza.

The first two buildings were completed earlier this year and the first two private developments have been sold out and are currently under construction.

"Ultimately, it is planned to have approximately 750 apartments across three stages, integrated into a very inclusive community, with a range of community facilities and activities available to all residents," Mr Sullivan said.

Mr Boyd said Washington Park is now widely recognised as a model in urban renewal and has attracted the attention of jurisdictions from interstate and overseas.

"The Riverwood community have shown its full and ongoing support, which has been a major contributing factor to the overall success of the project," he said.

"A recent community open day on the site attracted over 1,500 local residents of all ages and cultures who enjoyed a day of entertainment and activities and appreciated the opportunity to meet neighbours and make new friends," he said.

The Sydney UDIA Awards

The Sydney Design Awards, run by design100, is part of a collaborative platform of award programs run across Sydney, Melbourne, London and New York. Developed with the aim of celebrating the courage and innovation of those who commission design, along with those who create it, the program works to support the world's creative minds and organisations with the aim to accelerate the transformation to a design-led marketplace.

The Awards were judged by an expert design panel, members of the design industry and included input from 20,000 public votes lodged by the marketplace.

The UDIA - Urban Design Institute of Australia

The Urban Development Institute of Australia promote excellence and innovation in the creation of sustainable communities throughout Australia as a federation of five state associations.

As an organisation the UDIA tackles a range of key issues facing developers within the industry as well as providing leadership in sustainable outcomes. The UDIA Executive is supported by an elected council and extremely active committees involved with Urban Planning, Infrastructure, Sustainable Urban Development, Environment and Urban Water supply.

Importantly UDIA Members are subject to a Code of conduct which sets them apart from others in the market. Our members:

• Demonstrate ethical principles and observe the highest standards of integrity and honesty in all professional and personal dealings.
• Uphold and promote the reputation of the Urban Development Institute of Australia (WA) and not misuse authority of office for personal gain.
• Respect the confidentiality of information given to the member in the course of the Institute's work.
• Engage in continued learning to maintain and improve professional skills and competence within the industry and promote innovation and excellence in practice.
• Strive to achieve environmentally, economically and socially sustainable development.
• Show respect for the rights of consumers and maintain the public's confidence and trust in the Development Industry.

"We are honoured to be associated with such a prestigious association as the UDIA, who are so important to the development of communities in this country." said Mr Brian Boyd.