Watts, who completed an Advanced Diploma of Building Design (Architectural) in 2023, was acknowledged with wins in multiple categories at the Design Matters National Building Design Awards.

He won both the Best Response to a Design Brief by an Emerging Designer and Excellence in Documentation by an Emerging Designer for 'BEVIS', a contemporary sustainable apartment development in Bentleigh East, and attracted an Honourable Mention for Best Digital Design by an Emerging Designer.

The awards were presented at Design Matters National’s inaugural Excellence and Innovation Summit at Federation Square in Melbourne.

“Initially, I didn’t expect my project to be worthy enough of entry into these awards, having seen the exceptional high calibre of work entered in previous years. However, with encouragement from my teachers, I decided to submit. I was thrilled to receive recognition at the Design Matters Awards, and my project was also featured in the DMN print publication, Awarded. It was an honour to be part of a nationwide celebration of building design excellence” Watts said.

The awards also paid tribute to Holmesglen’s excellence in teaching practical design skills, technical documentation and digital presentation techniques.

Design Matters National Chief Executive Danielle Johnston said Watts had demonstrated exceptional talent as an emerging designer.

“These awards highlight the outstanding calibre of students coming through Victoria's TAFE system (and) showcase innovative approaches to sustainable design and urban development whilst respecting local context – exactly what our industry needs,” she said.

“Design Matters National is proud of our longstanding relationship with these institutions as we work together to nurture the next generation of building design professionals.”

Judges said Watts' winning project, BEVIS, demonstrated excellence in sustainable apartment design, featuring passive solar design principles, green rooftop terraces, and innovative structural solutions. The project was praised for its thorough documentation and response to complex urban design challenges.

David Hulett, Head of Applied Building Technology at Holmesglen commended Watts on his achievements.

“We are very proud of Riley and the work he put into achieve such high standards and to be recognised by the industry for this, as well as numerous potential job offers on the night.

Whilst ABT Building Design students have taken out all the industry awards in the past (2021) it was the first time a student had won/ been recognised individually for all the awards” Hulett said.

The Advanced Diploma of Building Design (Architectural) is offered full-time or part-time at Homesglen’s Chadstone campus, and prepares students for careers as building designers, architectural technicians, assistants or draftspersons.

The qualification, combined with subsequent industry experience, allows graduates to become a Registered Building Practitioner with the Victorian Building Authority (VBA).