Dr. Kali Marnane has been awarded the 2025 National Emerging Architect Prize, recognized for her exceptional work as a strategic advisor, educator, and researcher who has demonstrated how architectural leadership can extend beyond individual projects to create meaningful collective impact. The jury praised her broad scope of work and deep commitment to community-centered design.
Marnane's transformative approach to architecture was shaped early in her career through volunteer work in the slums of Ahmedabad, India. This formative experience inspired her doctoral research focusing on spaces that support vulnerable women and children, establishing a foundation that continues to inform all aspects of her professional practice.
Currently serving as associate director at Urbis, Marnane has distinguished herself by championing the integration of architectural expertise into policy, planning, and strategic frameworks. Her career path has taken her from her role as associate lecturer at the University of Queensland to her current position where she actively works to shape policy through architectural insight.
At the core of Marnane's practice is her commitment to keeping people and communities central to her vision. She works extensively with Indigenous communities, youth, and women, ensuring their voices are meaningfully embedded into culturally responsive policy frameworks. Her leadership style is characterized by service, empathy, attentive listening, and a dedication to elevating others in the profession.
Marnane's contributions to the architectural community extend through various leadership roles and volunteer positions. As a former co-chair of EmAGN Queensland, she has been instrumental in supporting emerging architects. She also serves as an active community volunteer and convenor for Parlour Lab, where she has successfully created meaningful connections between research, practice, and community engagement.
The jury noted that Marnane represents a powerful example of an alternative architectural career path, one where strategic vision and human empathy are combined to create lasting impact. Her work demonstrates how architects can engage with broader social issues while maintaining professional excellence and community focus.
The 2025 National Emerging Architect Prize jury consisted of Adam Haddow FRAIA, Australian Institute of Architects national president; Callum Senjov RAIA, EmAGN national president; and Jennifer McMaster FRAIA, the 2024 National Emerging Architect Prize winner. In their citation, they emphasized Marnane's unique ability to mobilize architectural expertise for community benefit and policy influence.
