Jury comment
There’s a definite diversity to Pierce Widera’s portfolio, but at the same time its work exhibits a clarity of thought and expression that’s consistent across all projects. The jury unanimously agreed on the studio’s confident detailing and thoughtful use of materials. All of Pierce Widera’s interiors have enormous appeal and look like they’ve successfully met their brief in a manner that’s extremely professional, ordered and resolved.
A particular mood permeates their hospitality projects and one jury member noted how well their spatial sequences align with a sense of narrative, creating a memorable experience for patrons. Their use of lighting is effective in adding warmth and drama to otherwise restrained fitouts. Co-directors Amy Pierce and Nat Widera have a wealth of architecture and design experience between them across a variety of sectors and established the practice in 2017, completing six projects in that first year. Their creative approach is distinct and they have a clear design identity, articulated via exciting concepts and a strong aesthetic.
Design statement
Pierce Widera is an upcoming design practice in Melbourne. The studio was established in 2017, the founding partners and directors are Amy Pierce (aged 30) and Nat Widera (aged 37). Both Nat and Amy share a wealth of architecture and design experience across a variety of scales and sectors, including hospitality, commercial and residential. In their first year, Pierce Widera has already completed six projects in the commercial sector.
The Award for Emerging Interior Design Practice is supported by Space Furniture. The Australian Interior Design Awards are presented by the Design Institute of Australia and Artichoke magazine. For more images of this project, see the Australian Interior Design Awards gallery.
