Australian architect Kerry Hill has been posthumously awarded the Singapore Institute of Architects (SIA) 2023 Gold Medal, with the jury praising his remarkable contribution to elevating architectural standards in the country.
A widely respected public figure, Hill was described by the jury as being “hands-on,” “exacting,” “a perfectionist,” and a man of few words who preferred to let his projects speak for themselves. Hill built an extensive portfolio, filled with various community buildings, office towers, and multi-residential projects, however, he was most notably recognized for his detailed hotel designs. Some of his most celebrated hotel projects include The Chedi, Bandung, (1992–1994), Amanusa, Nusa Dua, (1990–1992) and The Serai, Manggis (1992–1994), all located in Indonesia.
During his career, Hill earned numerous awards. He was the recipient of the prestigious Aga Khan Award in 2001 for his design of the Datai Resort in Langkawi, Malaysia, in 1995 he won the Kenneth F. Brown Asia Pacific Culture and Architecture Design Award, and in 2010, he received a President’s Design Award in Singapore for Designer of the Year.
Hill was also awarded the Australian Institute of Architects’ Gold Medal in 2006 and appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) in 2012.
Hill held a special place in his heart for Singapore, having based himself there in 1979 and Singapore being the country where he established his practice Kerry Hill Architects. In the 1990s, he introduced a unique design language in Asia through the creation of modern, climate specific resort and residential projects. With clean lines and carefully chosen materials, he crafted spaces that not only captivated the architectural community but evoked a sense of appreciation for good design within the general public.
His accomplishments as an architect extended beyond just design ability. The jury praised him for his frequent and generous sharing of knowledge and expertise with emerging architects through lectures, mentoring, serving on judging panels and teaching at several leading architecture schools.
Kerry Hill Architects continues to uphold his legacy, with the practice an ongoing testament to his influence.
Hill was a joint winner of the 2023 SIA Gold Medal, sharing with architect Raymond Woo, of Raymond Woo and Associates Architects.
