ASPECT Studios recognised at the 2026 AILA Landscape Architecture Awards
Sydney Harbour Bridge Cycleway Ramp | Award of Excellence for Civic Landscape
Awarded to ASPECT Studios with Collins and Turner, Eckersley O’Callaghan, Design 5 Architects, Madwings, Yerrabingin and Transport for NSW
Client: Transport for NSW
Replacing stair-only access with a safe and inclusive route along the harbour bridge, the project completes a critical missing link in Sydney’s cycling network.
Its serpentine form, inspired by Country, carefully resolves complex heritage and site constraints while sitting lightly within its setting. Integrating landscape, architecture, engineering and public art, the ramp is an elegant piece of city-shaping infrastructure that supports healthier, more sustainable movement across the harbour.
Award Citation
"[...]The jury commends the project’s subtle and respectful response to heritage, expressed through highly refined bridge detailing and extensive First Nations collaboration. The project demonstrates leadership in landscape architecture, that shapes infrastructure into civic spaces with lasting public value."
Award of Excellence for Infrastructure
Awarded to ASPECT Studios
Client: Inner West Council and Gartner Rose
ASPECT Studios with Gartner Rose undertook the design and construction for the most challenging stretch of the GreenWay. The path cantilevers over canals and under bridges, pierce through abutments and skirts the existing Light Rail corridor, bringing commuters together in a seamless pedestrian and cycle link, 2km long.
Incorporating destinational and incidental play, catering for dog walkers and art lovers, the project enhances the cultural landscape of Sydney’s Inner West - prioritising pedestrians, supporting walking, cycling, play, fitness, and moments of respite - while expanding public access to open space and strengthening links between existing parks, transport nodes and neighbourhoods.
Award Citation
"[...]The final 2km section from Taverner’s Hill light rail station to the new Hercules Street Parklands demonstrates the power of landscape architecture to create great places, strengthen native ecological communities, and embed Country, play and art within interstitial spaces.[...]"
Award of Excellence for Urban Design
Awarded to ASPECT Studios, SJB, and Studio Prineas
Client: TOGA
A network of laneways, shared spaces, and parks reinstates the historic east–west street grain, improving links and activating edges. At its centre, Wunderlich Lane forms a public spine connecting Baptist, Marriott and Cleveland Streets. Lined with retail, hospitality and community uses, it anchors a walkable neighbourhood and a network of landscaped spaces for movement, gathering and social exchange.
Award citation:
"[...]The jury highly commends the project for its open and inclusive public domain, integration of substantial planting, and its site, climate and heritage responsive design. The Surry Hills Village has transformed its neighbourhood into a welcoming, green and vibrant mixed-use destination."
Award of Excellence for Tourism
Awarded to ASPECT Studios with 3XN GXN and BVN Architecture
Client: Infrastructure NSW
The project reconnects the Glebe foreshore walk with Pyrmont, unlocking more than 6,000 square metres of new public open space. A network of promenades, plazas, terraces and steps improves access to Sydney Harbour, strengthening foreshore connections and contributing to a continuous 15-kilometre harbour walk from Woolloomooloo to Rozelle Bay.
Our design integrates ecological restoration with a more comfortable and resilient waterfront environment. Native planting provides shade, shelter and biodiversity, while integrated water management reduces reliance on potable water and improves water quality. Living seawalls and in-water interventions enhance marine habitats in Blackwattle Bay, strengthening the relationship between the landscape and its coastal setting.
Award citation:
"[...]The jury noted its blurring of destination building and public domain, accommodating large crowds while offering intimate experiences and connections to Glebe Foreshore. Biodiverse endemic planting, living seawalls and water-sensitive design deliver positive environmental outcomes, while strong First Nations engagement enriches cultural identity and reinforces the project as a magnetic waterfront destination."