Open Nature Student Design Competition Shortlist Announced

Posted Tue 10th Feb 2026 | katie.evans@ohm.org.au

An initiative of Open House Melbourne, the student design ideas competition A Platform for Presence invited students and emerging landscape architects (up to five years post-graduation) to consider a conceptual platform within Jacksons Creek biik wurrdha Regional Parklands. Entrants were asked to imagine a small-scale, conceptual intervention that offers new ways of seeing, sensing and relating to this significant cultural and ecological site.

The judging panel comprising Anna O’Sullivan (Registered Landscape Architect, FFLA), Alex Lee (Registered Landscape Architect, Spiire), Nick Loschiavo (Registered Landscape Architect, Parks Victoria) and Dr Brent Greene (RMIT University), reviewed 22 submissions and noted a strong understanding of the site’s cultural and ecological significance.

“The shortlisted proposals clearly demonstrate a deep respect for the site’s significant ecological and cultural values,” said Jury Chair Anna O’Sullivan. “They offer thoughtful and considered responses that acknowledge both context and the responsibilities that come with working in a landscape of such importance. Congratulations to all who entered the competition.”

The shortlisted entrants are:

Jay Anderson
Helena Jack
Molly Stanko
Nan Zhou

Open House Melbourne Executive Director Tania Davidge, who facilitated the design competition, welcomed the depth and geographic spread of all the entries.

“It was wonderful for Open House Melbourne to facilitate this design competition and to see students and emerging professionals from across Australia engage so thoughtfully with this beautiful site and program,” Davidge said. “Competitions like A Platform for Presence play an important role in supporting good design and investing in the future of the landscape architecture profession.”

While A Platform for Presence was a conceptual design ideas competition only, with no intent for construction, plans are underway to present the submissions for all to see. Winners will be announced in March.

Open Nature: Jacksons Creek biik wurrdha Regional Parklands is presented by Open House Melbourne, funded through the Victorian Government’s Suburban Parks Program and supported by Hume City Council.