The Awards honour the residential, commercial and public spaces of our urban fabric, which demonstrate the innovative and considered use of colour in the built environment.

A project director for CTRL Space, Carney is known for approaching design with a sense of curiosity. Her work can be found in Sydney, London, Hong Kong and Auckland, mainly in high-end retail (Dior Macau and LVMH’s Sydney head office to name a few), and hospitality. Recently completed projects at CTRL Space include Sunset bar, Deli di Bossi and Bossi Restaurant, in Auckland’s CBD.

Dulux Colour Specialist, Davina Harper, says she is thrilled to welcome Sarah to the 2023 Dulux Colour Awards:

“We are delighted that Sarah will make up the New Zealand component of the judging panel. She has a passion for implementing colour as a tool to define, evoke and elevate environments. Chosen for their expertise and dedication to design and architecture, this year’s judges bring a wealth of experience and an array of valuable perspectives,” says Davina. “Tasked with evaluating and deciding on the very best use of colour across architecture and design in New Zealand and Australia is no easy feat, but I believe these five jury members are extremely well placed to take on the 2023 awards program.”

Carney looking forward to offering her perspective on the profound impact colour can have on our experience and perception of the built environment. “The choice of colour in architecture has an overwhelming effect on the way a building is perceived by those that view it, walk by it and occupy it each and everyday.”

“As a first-time judge, I can’t wait to see and review the colourful and inventive submissions of some of New Zealand and Australia’s best architects and designers.”

The additional judges on the panel include Director of B.E Architecture, Andrew Piva; Inter-disciplinary Designer and Director of his eponymous studio, Brahman Perera; Senior Interior Designer of Snøhetta (Adelaide), Lisa Lee and Director of Russell & George, Byron George.

The judging panel also has the challenging task of examining the New Zealand category finalists to select a winner for the New Zealand Grand Prix awards. The student category is exempt from Grand Prix consideration, however, this year Dulux is recognising the talent of budding professionals with the introduction of a New Zealand Student award.

Along with wide acclaim and industry recognition, all winners will have their projects showcased on an international scale, amplified via promotional activity on Dulux-owned digital platforms and other parties where appropriate. In addition to the above, winners of the Student (Years 1-6) Awards will receive a separate monetary prize. The 2023 Dulux Colour Awards is now open for entries and will be accepting submissions until Wednesday 1 March 2023. Winners will be announced at an exclusive event to be held at North Melbourne’s Space & Time on Thursday 11 May 2023.

For further information, details on how to enter, judging criteria and past winners, visit dulux.co.nz/colourawards