A prestigious event on the Australian interior design calendar, the Interior Design Excellence Awards (IDEA) were held recently with some pretty amazing projects taking away the big gongs in an awards ceremony and gala party hosted on Sydney Harbour
In its 13th year, IDEA recognises the best of Australian interior and product design and the designers behind the work. The 2016 IDEA jury included Greg Natale, Helen Kontouris (Helen Kontouris Design), Jan O’Connor (Environa Studio), John Wardle (John Wardle Architects), Melissa Bright (MAKE Architecture), Nic Graham (Nic Graham + Associates) and Tim Jackson (Jackson Clements Burrows), along with inside editors Jan Henderson and Gillian Serisier.
Taking away the biggest prize on the night (overall winner), was the Indigo Slam project by Smart Design Studio. Located in Sydney’s Chippendale, the building is truly a work of art. From its sculpted concrete exterior to its highly unique interior spaces, the building has been recognised as a true original. “If even for just a moment we put aside the architecture of the house, the interiors really stand on their own,” said one of the judges, Greg Natale.
Another significant award went to Kerry Phelan of Kerry Phelan Design Office who received the ‘Gold Medal’ for her impressive career that has spanned more than 20 years.
The 2015 ‘Designer of the year’ award went to Melbourne-based interior architect and designer, Fiona Lynch who was recognised for her elegant residential projects and meticulous and textural detailing.
Visit here for a more and to see the full list of winners.
