John Sutherland Practice Award
John Sutherland Practice Award
The Practice Award celebrates excellence of innovation, research and ways of working.
It is accessible to all - academics, architects, graduates and students, and could be awarded to a sole practitioner or a large practice, an academic or a collective. The John Sutherland Practice Award recognises John’s immense legacy to professional practice and his passion for excellence in the profession, and the dedication, mentorship and inspiration he gave.
The 2024 John Sutherland Practice Award goes to Tony Watkins.
For decades, Tony Watkins has been an industry leader, calling our attention to designing and building in a way that nurtures both the physical and spiritual needs of our environment. An inspiring and courageous voice for the practice of architecture, he values and respects our world and its ecosystems.
About this award
This Award celebrates and acknowledges the influence and impact of individuals, groups or collectives to the practice of architecture and the built environment. It recognises a wider range of architectural endeavours including management, project delivery, professional practice, research, business practices and building science. The Award also recognises thinking skills and social and digital innovation.
John Sutherland’s contribution to the architecture profession was outstanding. His influence spanned generations for services to architecture. He was Institute President from 1983 to 1985. In 2010 John was awarded the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to architecture, and in 2019 he was made a Distinguished Fellow of Te Kāhui Whaihanga.
Throughout his 60-year career, he gave us leadership, knowledge and expertise in his numerous roles in architectural and engineering practices, industry groups, government agencies, academic institutions.
John has left an indelible mark on the profession and the practice of architecture. His commitment and passion for improvements in architecture and its practices were well known. He has influenced and inspired others to deliver excellence in the practice of architecture, be it through procurement, the design and operation of a practice, the adoption of digital solutions and industry collaboration.