Imagine a world where buildings aren’t just judged by their looks, but by how they make us feel. That’s the radical idea at the heart of Angelo Candalepas’s work, and it’s landed him not one, but two spots on the prestigious Royal Institute of British Architects International Awards shortlist. But here’s where it gets controversial: can a building truly prioritize soul over silhouette and still succeed in today’s design-obsessed world? Candalepas’s projects suggest it can.
This Sydney-based architect has seamlessly bridged the gap between luxury and community-focused design, proving that architecture’s true value lies in its ability to engage the human spirit. His Porter House hotel, nestled in Sydney’s heart, is a stunning example. It’s not just a 10-storey heritage-meets-modernity marvel; it’s a space that feels like a private luxury apartment, complete with relics from Sydney’s past displayed in the foyer. And this is the part most people miss: these artifacts—old gloves, glasses, and teacups—aren’t just decorations; they’re a tangible link to the city’s history, inviting guests to connect with its soul.
But Candalepas’s genius doesn’t stop at high-end projects. Less than 20km away, his Church of the Living God in Hurstville serves as both a sanctuary for a linguistically diverse Pentecostal community and a refuge for women escaping domestic violence. The challenge? Designing a building that feels like a fortress without resembling a prison. Candalepas calls it a ‘protective harbour and a welcoming place of worship,’ a space where safety and spirituality coexist. Is it possible for architecture to heal and protect? Candalepas’s work dares to answer yes.
These two projects, as different as they are in design and function, share a common core: they prioritize human experience over aesthetics. ‘Architecture is about understanding what’s common to all humans,’ Candalepas explains. ‘It’s not about the size of the project, but how it engages with people.’
Australia’s presence on the shortlist doesn’t end with Candalepas. Five projects in total have been recognized, showcasing the country’s diverse architectural talent. Take fjcstudio’s Darlington Public School, for instance. Over two years old and still collecting accolades, this ‘living classroom’ balances modern education with Indigenous history by preserving Aboriginal murals and integrating native landscaping. Does this approach redefine what a school can be?
In the residential category, two Australian firms stand out. Glenn Murcutt and Brian Steendijk’s Gold Creek House in Brisbane is a twin-pavilion masterpiece, its rust-red Corten steel roofs serving both aesthetic and functional purposes, including ember resistance in bushfire-prone areas. Meanwhile, John Wardle’s Burnt Earth Beach House in Victoria anchors itself to the dramatic cliffs of the Great Ocean Road. Built primarily from terracotta, its hand-torn bricks mimic the surrounding cliffs, offering both beauty and fire resistance. Can architecture truly harmonize with nature while addressing practical challenges?
As the global jury visits these 52 shortlisted projects in the coming months, one thing is clear: Australian architecture is making waves internationally. The winners will be announced on 11 June 2026, but the conversation starts now. What do you think—should buildings prioritize soul over silhouette? And can architecture truly heal and protect? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a debate!
