Jane Birch Commendation for “Seawood Studio” 

Jane Birch received a Commendation Award in the Student Design category for her project, Seawood Studio. The project is a compact, off-grid coastal retreat that embodies biophilic design and sustainability while maintaining a playful and efficient aesthetic. 

Set on a triangular site in Peregian Beach, Seawood Studio uses two angled pods to frame ocean views, encourage natural ventilation, and establish a lush internal courtyard as the home’s social heart. The layered decks, hammock nook, and “SkyPod” retreat create spaces that balance indoor comfort with outdoor connection. 

Designed to achieve a 10-star NatHERS rating, Jane’s design integrates prefabricated walls, low-VOC finishes, concrete-free footings, and a solar energy system. Her work reflects a strong understanding of environmental design principles and a creative approach to contemporary coastal living  a remarkable achievement at the student level. 

(Images below from the BDAA 2025 Winning Design Magazine and Janes Diploma Project A submission)

Aaron Schumacher  Winner for “Dallimore House” 

Aaron Schumacher, of Aaron Schumacher Drafting, received top honours as Winner in the New Residential Buildings category ($601,000–$999,000) for his project, Dallimore House. 

Situated in NSW’s Central West, Dallimore House reinterprets modern barn typology with a sense of resilience, refinement, and responsiveness to place. The design celebrates panoramic views of the Macquarie River while maintaining protection from harsh westerly winds. 

Externally, the dark corrugated cladding and recycled composite timbers evoke the rural vernacular, while the prefabricated construction, burnished concrete floors, and solar array demonstrate a strong focus on sustainability. Internally, the spaces are light-filled, cross-ventilated, and seamlessly connected to the outdoors, offering comfort and efficiency in equal measure. 

Aaron’s work stands as an outstanding example of regional contemporary design  one that respects its context while showcasing innovation and technical mastery. 

(Images below from the BDAA 2025 Winning Design Magazine )

A Message from Built Form Design Academy

At BFDA, we take immense pride in seeing our students excel at national levels and contribute to the future of Australian design. Aaron and Jane’s recognition at the 2025 BDAA National Festival of Design is a reflection of their dedication, creativity, and the high standard of work produced within our Diploma program. 

We congratulate you both on your achievements and look forward to hearing more about your design journeys at our upcoming Design Club webinar on 25 November 2025. We encourage all students including those currently completing the Certificate IV in Design  to attend and be inspired by their success. 

Stand Out with the Diploma of Building Design

Are you  ready to elevate your skills and stand out from the crowd?

Like our award-winning students at the 2025 BDAA National Festival of Design, you can take your studies to the next level with the Diploma of Building Design at Built Form Design Academy.

This nationally recognised qualification gives you the practical and technical expertise to bring design concepts to life from creating detailed documentation to navigating building approvals and industry standards. You’ll gain the skills and confidence to design functional, sustainable, and beautiful spaces that make an impact.

If you’re ready to turn your passion into professional success, explore how the Diploma of Building Design can help you achieve your goals.

See what’s possible visit our Instagram to explore more exceptional student work and success stories.