The First Half of 2026: Progress Across Practice, Projects and Community Places

Across Australia, the past 6 months have included the opening of our new Melbourne studio and important milestones across cultural, sporting and recreation projects.

These moments reflect the breadth of work currently underway across the practice, from the careful renewal of a historic Collins Street building to major regional projects that will support community, sport, events and wellbeing.

A Studio Rooted in Renewal

This year marked an important chapter for Peddle Thorp Architects with our move to a new Melbourne studio at 419 Collins Street.

Rich in history and architectural character, the building reflects values that closely align with our approach to design: craftsmanship, longevity, adaptability and the careful renewal of existing places.

The move provides a new home for our Melbourne team and a setting that reflects how we think about sustainable, enduring architecture. It also creates a welcoming space for clients, collaborators and project partners as we continue shaping places that serve communities now and into the future.

A Regional Cultural Destination Takes Its Next Step

The Albury Entertainment Centre Convention Wing Redevelopment reached a significant milestone with the appointment of the main contractor and the official sod turning ceremony.

Peddle Thorp Architects congratulates AlburyCity on this important step forward for a project that will strengthen Albury’s position as a leading regional destination for conferences, exhibitions, events and cultural experiences.

Once complete, the redevelopment will support lasting economic and community benefits for the region. As Lead Consultant, Peddle Thorp Architects is proud to be helping bring this vision to life and looks forward to seeing construction progress in the months ahead.

A Sporting Precinct Coming Into View

Construction continues to advance at the Devonport Oval Sports Complex, with structural steelwork and precast panels now erected for the Community Courts building.

This marks a significant milestone in the delivery of the major regional sporting precinct. Groundworks have also been completed for the Show Court, establishing the foundation for a facility that will support higher level competition and major community events.

Emerging from a masterplan and feasibility process led by Peddle Thorp Architects through to full project delivery, the $60 million development will bring six sporting codes together within a single integrated destination for Tasmania’s north west.

The project is set to create lasting benefits for sport, recreation, health and community connection across the region.

Recognition for a Major Civic Sports Facility

Parakiore Recreation and Sport Centre was recognised with an NZIA Public Architecture Award, acknowledging the scale, complexity and public value of this major facility for Christchurch and Canterbury.

Delivered in collaboration with WAM, Parakiore brings together recreation, sport, health and community use within one civic setting.

The award is a meaningful recognition of the work behind a project that is already becoming an important public asset for the region.

A Civic Landmark Begins to Take Shape

Construction is steadily progressing at the Wurdi Baierr Aquatic and Recreation Centre, with Stage 1 and Stage 2 works continuing on site.

Peddle Thorp Architects is leading the design of this community centred project, which will provide the Surf Coast region with year round access to high quality aquatic and fitness facilities.

The design integrates natural elements and sustainable practices, reflecting the surrounding coastal landscape while creating a civic landmark that supports community wellbeing and local economic growth.

A Strong Foundation for the Year’s Second Half

The first half of 2026 has been defined by meaningful progress across practice, project delivery and community infrastructure.

These milestones reflect the contribution of many people: clients, consultants, builders, project teams and local communities, all working together to create places of long term public value.

As the year continues, Peddle Thorp Architects remains focused on delivering projects that respond to their context, support the people who use them and contribute positively to the communities they serve.