Aria's Upper House Wins 2025 Australian Development

The project has been named the Rider Levett Bucknall Australian Development of the Year 2025 for its innovation, design excellence and sustainability standards.

The residential apartment complex, best known for its striking rooftop design, also took home the Award for Best Public Art Project and the Award for Best Residential Development.

The Innovation & Excellence awards program, now in its 43rd year in partnership with Rider Levett Bucknall (RLB), highlights groundbreaking innovations and exceptional leadership in Australia's property industry.

Property Council Chief Executive Mike Zorbas said Upper House represents sustainable design at its best.

"Inspired by Queensland's iconic Moreton Bay fig tree, this glorious development in South Brisbane really captures the imagination.

"Upper House boldly addresses our future, prioritising efficiency and low emissions, and it further advances Australia's leadership in sustainability.

"As Queensland's first residential building to achieve a 5-Star Green Star As-Built certification, it sets a new benchmark for environmentally conscious residential design."

Internationally acclaimed Koichi Takada Architects designed the 188-unit complex and reflects a high standard of urban living, with Australia's first double-storey rooftop club, a curated art collection and Aria Living's concierge service.

Upper House's twisting form illuminated LED ribbons, and the world's largest timber pergola create a striking architectural statement.

Atop, a 1,250 sqm double-rooftop retreat offers world-class amenities, from an infinity pool and private cinema to a wellness centre and executive workspaces.

As Queensland's first 5-Star Green Star As-Built residential building, it delivered operational savings through smart systems, EV-ready infrastructure, and solar power.

RLB in NSW Managing Director Paul Skinner said the project is a signature design for the vibrant arts and cultural precinct.

"Rising 32 storeys above South Brisbane, Upper House is an impressive blend of high-density luxury living with sustainability and social impact.

"With its sculptural, twisting balconies, a timber rooftop pergola and a curated art collection throughout, Upper House has created a strong community that has transformed the Fish Lane precinct into a vibrant cultural destination."

At the Gala Dinner held on Wednesday evening, Parrys Raines of Blackstone was named Future Leader of the Year, recognising her outstanding contributions and leadership potential within the property sector.

Knight Frank was awarded the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Award for organisations with more than 250 employees, while NGNU received the same honour in the category for organisations with fewer than 250 employees. Asseti was recognised with the Product, Program or Service Innovation Award, celebrating its commitment to forward-thinking solutions in the built environment.

Presented in partnership with RLB since 1982, these prestigious awards continue to champion innovation and design excellence across the property and construction industries.

From a pool of 136 eligible finalists, winners were selected by a distinguished judging panel of 21 property experts, chaired by Adrian Harrington.

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