Premised on the notion of recognizing spaces that matter, the FRAME Awards is about championing innovation in interior design.

“The projects that have made it to our shortlist this year underscore that forward-thinking responses to today’s most salient problems aren’t just coming from companies at the top of the industry, but tomorrow’s design leaders as well, with an impressive array of promising young studios still in the running,” the organisers of the FRAME Awards said.

“Embodying themes from experience and community to wellbeing and agility, hundreds of submissions across 24 categories in the Retail, Hospitality, Work, Institutions, Living and Shows sectors, have competed for the title of winner of the month, scored on Innovation, Functionality, Creativity and Sustainability.”

The Woods Bagot-designed Journey Beyond Gold Premium Carriages shortlisted for the “hotel” award, alongside just five other international projects. Nominations were selected based on a high score submissions received from 18 jurors in the hospitality category. 

The FRAME Awards jury commended the project on its creative and original response to a unique brief, addressing specific functionality requirements while delivering a striking aesthetic with a tangible connection to place.

“A unique and well designed compact space, tapping into a new luxury travel segment outside of the likes of the Orient Express,” says juror at Design Director at LW Design, Pooja Shah-Mulani.

“What stands out most to me is how seamlessly the story if the space is woven into the design, with a remarkable level of attention to detail,” says juror and Brand Experience Design Lead (Europe) at M Moser Associates, Jessica Adkins. “From historical references to the representation of Indigenous Australia through the artwork and upholstery, every element feels thoughtfully considered. The use of space is excellent, and the holistic approach is clear and effective.”

“Controlled, well-conceived, and well resolved. the sense of luxury through the lens of nostalgia is palpable,” writes juror and founder at Baldridge Architects, Burton Baldridge.

The carriages convey the beauty and romance long associated with slow travel, with a design response that is deeply contextual to the history and topography of Australia. 

“Cross-country rail has long been a part of Australian travel, tracing back to the nineteenth century,” says Woods Bagot Principal Rosina Di Maria. “The design captures the old-world elegance of rail travel, paying homage to the original art deco period through the recreation of cherished original details.” 

“The Ghan, Indian Pacific and Great Southern are an integral part of Australia’s tourism story and the journeys are designed to forge a greater connection to country for guests,” adds project leader Bonnie Hamilton. “The design story extends this connection into the interior design, contributing to the sense of place throughout the journey.” 

The winners of the FRAME 2024 Awards will be announced on 24 October 2024 at a live ceremony in Hong Kong. View all the shortlisted projects here. 

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Isla Sutherland
Content and Communications Specialist (Australia & New Zealand)