University of Notre Dame Triumphs at WA Architecture Awards
The University of Notre Dame emerged as a standout winner at the 2026 WA Architecture Awards, with its lecturers and campus projects receiving multiple accolades. Senior lecturers Simon Pendal and Katherine Ashe were among the key winners, each recognized for projects delivered through their architectural practices.
Simon Pendal and Vittino Ashe Architects Honored
Dr. Simon Pendal’s firm, Simon Pendal Architect, claimed the Iwan Iwanoff Award for small project architecture. Meanwhile, Katherine Ashe’s Vittino Ashe Architects received an award for residential architecture, along with commendations for sustainable architecture and lighting. These wins underscore the university’s strong connection to the architectural profession.
Fremantle Campus Library and Student Hub Recognized
The university’s Fremantle campus library and student hub, designed by Hames Sharley, earned awards for educational architecture and interior architecture. The project was also shortlisted in the Australian Interior Design Awards and earlier in 2026 won a major award at the Learning Environments Australasia Design Awards.
Academic-Industry Synergy Highlighted
Dr. Lara Mackintosh, university architecture program coordinator, emphasized that the awards reflect the strength of Notre Dame’s architecture programs and their industry connections. “Notre Dame was incredibly well represented across the awards, from the recognition of our student hub to the success of our academics, alumni and industry partners,” she said. “The awards demonstrate the strength of our teaching, the quality of the firms we work with and the opportunities available to our students through those relationships. Many of our students are learning directly from award-winning architects and practices before they even graduate.”
George Temple Poole Award Goes to ECU City
The prestigious George Temple Poole Award was presented to the ECU City development, designed by Lyons with Silver Thomas Hanley and Haworth Tompkins.
