Architecture students recognised in At the Edge: A Platform for Presence design competition

Three Master of Landscape Architecture students have been recognised in At the Edge: A Platform for Presence, a design ideas competition presented by Open House Melbourne.

The competition invited emerging designers to propose small‑scale landscape interventions that deepen engagement with place and prompt reflection on cultural, ecological and environmental relationships. From 22 submissions, three students from the Melbourne School of Design’s Architecture, Building and Planning (ABP) cohort were shortlisted, with one entry awarded the overall prize.

Landscape Architecture student Molly Stanko was named the overall winner for her proposal Embers of Renewal, which was recognised for its sensitive engagement with Country, considered alignment with existing pathways and bold use of fire as a guiding design principle.

Responding to the cultural and ecological significance of the Jacksons Creek biik wurrdha site, her proposal explored cycles of regeneration and care through subtle spatial interventions.

“This site carries deep cultural and ecological meaning, and I wanted my proposal to prompt gentle reflection on renewal, care and our shared responsibility to Country,” Molly said.

Two further student proposals received commendations from the jury.

Nan Zhou was recognised for Breathing Grassland, a proposal noted for its climate‑responsive strategies and nuanced ecological interventions. The design explored seasonality, resilience and long‑term landscape change through adaptive planting and subtle material expression.

Jay Anderson received a commendation for Voice to the Land, an imaginative concept that used clay bricks as pathway, sculptural element and evolving habitat. The proposal encouraged visitor participation and reflection while supporting ecological regeneration over time.

Lecturer Wendy Walls said the students’ work demonstrated both design maturity and a strong ethical grounding.

“Our Landscape Architecture students have engaged so thoughtfully with the complexities of Jacksons Creek biik wurrdha,” Wendy said.

“Their proposals show creativity, restraint and a deep respect for Country—qualities that are essential in shaping the future of the profession.”