We are delighted to share that Sydney Central Station, designed by John McAslan + Partners in collaboration with Woods Bagot, has been awarded a Merit Award for Architecture in the prestigious 2025 AIA International Design Awards.

The project – a transformative upgrade to one of Australia’s busiest transport interchanges – exemplifies the power of collaborative design to enhance the urban experience through architecture that is bold, civic, and highly functional.

This recognition by the American Institute of Architects International Region celebrates architectural excellence on a global stage. The jury praised the project for its innovative approach to public infrastructure and the way it thoughtfully reimagines connectivity and user experience in a complex, high-traffic environment.

The Sydney Metro Central Station Upgrade involved significant heritage integration, enhanced passenger flows, and the creation of new civic spaces within a modern, light-filled concourse. The collaboration between Woods Bagot and John McAslan + Partners brought together deep expertise in transport architecture, urban design, and placemaking to deliver a project that will serve Sydney for generations to come.

Collectively, these awards recognise outstanding architecture which can inspire our fellow practitioners, governments, and the public around the world.

We extend our sincere thanks to the 2025 AIA International Design Awards jury for this honour, and offer our congratulations to all the winning teams whose projects continue to raise the standard for architecture worldwide.

Project: Sydney Metro Central Station Upgrade

Award: Merit Award for Architecture

Architects: Woods Bagot in collaboration with John McAslan + Partners

Location: Sydney, Australia

 image © Peter Bennetts