An important criterion for the win was the integration of a strong sustainable environmental strategy. This included landscaping with indigenous plants and stone from local sources and a glazed skin to control solar gain and pre-heat air before it enters the building.

There were 94 international entries for the competition, and the other shortlisted architects were: Board – Architecture and Urbanism, Bucholz McEvoy Architects, Denis Byrne Architects; MCA – Mario Cucinella Architects SRL and Patrick Harrington Architects.

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