The founder of a new regional-based architectural firm has been recognised for her innovative work in the field with a coveted national award.

The Australian Institute of Architects (AIA) has announced that Sarah Lebner will join Ellen Buttrose, Tiffany Liew, Bradley Kerr and Edwina Brisbane on the 2023 Dulux Study Tour of Helsinki, Lisbon, Zurich and Venice Biennale.

Sarah returned to the area last year and started Cooee Architecture, a new regional practice based near Bringenbrong focusing on energy-efficient and low-carbon homes.

Cooee practices throughout the Victorian High Country, NSW Snowy Mountains, ACT and surrounds.

Prior to relocating, Sarah was the Principal Architect at Light House Architecture and Science in Canberra.

She is also the author of 101 Things I Didn’t Learn in Architecture School and was the recipient of the AIA’s 2020 National Emerging Architect Prize.

The award recipients were recognised for their individual achievements and contribution to architectural practice, education, design excellence and community involvement. It is one of the AIA’s most coveted awards, celebrating the importance of experiencing architecture first-hand.

This year’s study tour marks the return of the landmark event following the pandemic in what is its 15th year.

The jury was impressed by the depth of skill, talent, passion and the dedication to the architectural profession exhibited by all who submitted.

It highlighted the diverse backgrounds and interests of the candidates, noting a demonstration of a shifting dynamic within the next generation of the profession.

“I feel unbelievably honoured to be selected for the 2023 Dulux Study Tour,” Sarah said.

“As we take a whirlwind study tour through Helsinki, Lisbon, Zurich and the Venice Architecture Biennale, I’ll constantly be asking myself how my privilege of attending and spending time with other movers and shakers can be paid forward into my work in sustainable regional architecture, entrepreneurship in our industry and my work with young architects at My First Architecture Job.

“Opportunities like this are never purely due to individual efforts. I want to thank my remarkable peers, family and friends who constantly support me in my career.”

There are many free resources on energy-efficiency and design for bushfire prone areas (including cost-effective DIY and retrofit measures) on Sarah’s website www.cooeearchitecture.com.au.

This article appeared in the Corryong Courier, 9 March 2023.