The Graduates of the Year Awards (GOTYAs) is the DIA’s flagship program, first introduced in 2003 for emerging designers, and created to support and celebrate exceptional Australian designers as they embark on their careers.

Tertiary institutions are invited to nominate their top graduates in either of two qualification levels — Higher Education or Vocational — in any one of four categories: Place, Use, Interact, and Convey. Finalists are interviewed by a panel of judges to assess their transferable workplace skills and potential impact on the Australian design industry.

The Place category focuses on the spaces where we live, work, and play. In Lauren’s case, it celebrates interior design that demonstrates a thoughtful resolution of spatial planning, structural integration, and traffic flow. Judges also evaluate how furniture, fixtures, furnishings, lighting strategies, and surface finishes collectively create cohesive environments. Entries must demonstrate consideration of sustainable design practices across all elements.

Lauren’s project, ‘Eden Community Centre’, explores ways to strengthen social connections among women to reduce loneliness. Housed in a former church, the community centre aims to create a warm and comfortable environment while preserving the building’s integrity.

“My research on loneliness guided me to include two main objectives for my design. Firstly, to create a welcoming and homely environment that encourages women to return and stay longer. This was achieved through comfortable, residential-scale interiors, an uplifting colour palette, and quiet moments for women to take a break from social spaces. I also wanted to create a space that fosters intergenerational connections,” shares Lauren.

Congratulations, Lauren, on your wonderful achievement!