NBRS ARCHITECTURE Wins American Institute of Architects Justice Facilities Award

NBRSARCHITECTURE has been awarded the 2020 AIA Justice Facilities Award for the design of Dillwynia Maximum-Security Correctional Centre Expansion. The annual award acknowledges architecture that demonstrates innovation within the justice sector.

The vision for the expansion project was to create spaces that align to life and society outside of the facility. This approach positively influences the wellbeing of staff and is ideal for the rehabilitation of inmates. Creating environments that improve the lives of end users is a core value of the NBRS team.

The unique buildings have been designed to maximise natural light and create a sense of openness. Visitation areas feature curved timber batten ceilings, with specially designed lighting to complement the generous natural daylight opportunities. Open officer posts with soft timber selections and natural stone mimic a reception counter setting. The spaces are designed to ensure visitors can experience seeing their loved ones with reduced anxiety.

Cells maximise privacy where possible and offer individualised storage, sleeping and study setups. Observable break-out spaces allow freedom of choice for inmates, whilst allowing them to develop a social identity outside their cells.

Learning environments offer inmates the opportunity to improve their literacy, numeracy and vocational skills. Principles were drawn from progressive school facilities such as personalised learning, flexibility and inclusivity. Spaces for indoor and outdoor shared learning compliment areas for personal study away from more structured teaching.

Spaces have been inspired by the philosophy of trauma informed design. Courtyards feature natural mounds and curved lines to create a soft landscape. Curved security fences feature low mass planting, helping to provide a feeling of space and tranquillity.

Anthea Doyle, Studio Principal of the Justice Studio at NBRS said: “From the outset our team envisioned a facility that considered the end users. Our aim was to create something that made staff, visitors and inmates feel safe, fostering a sense of normality and positivity.”

“As a practice our goal is to create impactful environments that improve lives. We are proud to have been given the opportunity to include design elements that support this.”