Curtin’s Exchange precinct wins prestigious urban design award

Curtin University’s Exchange precinct secured the prestigious Masterplanned Communities award at the 2023 Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA) WA Awards for Excellence.

The Masterplanned Communities award celebrates projects that demonstrate cohesive design principles and offer a diverse range of facilities, spanning residential, civic, recreational, commercial, industrial or other uses. 

Curtin’s Exchange precinct excelled by seamlessly integrating an array of offerings all within a single construction stage, including state-of-the-art learning and teaching facilities, vibrant retail spaces, diverse accommodation options, commercial uses and recreational areas. 

These elements are complemented by easy access to public transport, enriching the precinct’s multidimensional community appeal.

The judging panel, comprised of industry experts, noted it was impressed by Exchange’s vibrant atmosphere, fostering a genuine sense of community. The judges also commended Curtin’s commitment to building a thriving community from the very beginning of its wider Greater Curtin Master Plan.

Accepting the award, Tim Urquhart, Director of Properties, Facilities and Development at Curtin University, thanked the UDIA WA for recognizing the University’s vision and ambition. 

“This achievement reflects more than 15 years of dedication to creating a place that benefits not only the University but also the city and the broader community,” Mr Urquhart said. 

“Exchange has been a highly collaborative journey, with thousands of individuals contributing to its success.”

“This award solidifies Exchange’s position as a pioneering model for creating vibrant, integrated communities that caters to a wide range of needs and preferences, setting a benchmark for future developments.”

Curtin’s Exchange precinct has previously been awarded the UDIA Environmental Excellence Award for its commitment to prioritising carbon reduction, sustainable water management and the habitational protection of the Carnaby’s black cockatoo. For more information about the precinct visit Exchange at Curtin University.