News

Architects honored for shaping nation’s future

November 30, 2024 12:14 pm

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Professor Biman Prasad has acknowledged architects for the significant role they play in shaping Fiji’s future.

Speaking at the Fiji Architecture Awards night, the DPM says architects are not just constructing buildings but are creating spaces that enhance the quality of life.

Prasad says the event is a celebration of the hard work, resilience, and creativity of architects in designing structures that impact communities, culture, and the economy.

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“Architecture is more than creating spaces. It is about crafting an environment that enhances our quality of life, safeguards our communities, and reflects on our aspirations.”

Prasad also emphasized the importance of architects in helping to implement the Fiji National Development Plan 2025-2029, which aims to build economic resilience and improve the quality of life for all Fijians.

The DMP further calls on architects to integrate climate-smart designs that address the challenges of climate change.

Drawing attention to Fiji’s recent participation in COP29, Prasad highlighted the need for sustainable infrastructure to withstand future environmental challenges.

Biman also spoke about the role of architects in promoting social equity and inclusivity, urging the profession to prioritize affordable housing, community facilities, and public spaces that are accessible to all Fijians.

He also stressed the importance of preserving Fiji’s cultural heritage while designing innovative and eco-friendly solutions for the tourism industry.

The announcement of the award winners, who received recognition for their exceptional designs and contributions to the architectural profession, marked the evening’s culmination.

In his closing remarks, Prasad encouraged all architects to continue innovating and pushing the boundaries of design to help shape a sustainable and prosperous future for Fiji.

The awards night served as a reminder of the pivotal role architects play in building a resilient, inclusive, and environmentally conscious Fiji.

Awards and categories 
Residential New
Commendation – Trilogy Villa’s, Denarau, Sharma Designs
Award – Vuda House, Chris Cole Architects
Interior Awards
Commendation – Great Council of Chiefs, Suva. Main building interior. Clearview Architects
Commendation – Trilogy Villa’s, Denarau, Sharma Designs
Commercial/Refurbishment Project
Commendation – Toorak Central, AAPI
Commendation – Extra Supermarket, Laucala Bay, TropicX
Commercial Industrial, New Project
Commendation – Shreedar Motors, Suva, Design Hut
Award – Extra Supermarket, Labasa, TropicX
Retail Project
Commendation – Vodafone Nadi, Design Hut
Commendation – Tappoo City, Lautoka, Sharma Design
Hotel, Community, Education – Refurbishment Project
Commendation – School Recovery Program, Nukubolu Primary School, AAPI
Commendation – Oneta Resort, Clearview Architects
Commendation – Maravu/Asian Dining, Hilton, Denarau
Hotel, Community, Education – New Project
Commendation – Cakaudrove Women’s Resource Centre, Savusavu, Architects Without Frontiers & Ulaiasi Baivatu Architects
Commendation – Marist Sisters House and Chapel, Nadi, TropicX
Award – Namaka Market, Nadi, Maisuria Designs
Special Merit Award – 25 years
Sir Harold Mitchel Residence 1992, Murray Cockburn
Main Award
Vuda House, Chris Cole Architects