International design magazine Dezeen has published its shortlist of the most influential architecture projects around the world for 2025. Ninety-two shortlisted projects are in the running for awards across 17 project categories, with Sydney’s Central Station selected for the “Infrastructure and Transport” category.

Designed by Woods Bagot with John McAslan + Partners in association, Central Station redevelopment is a once-in-a-century upgrade of Australia’s largest train station.

This significant refurbishment involved the creation of new underground metro platforms, a new underground concourse, and upgrades to the heritage-listed Northern Concourse. Woods Bagot Principal and Transport Lead John Prentice says the design vision for the refurbishment places the user at the centre of the transformation.

“The implementation of open spaces such as the new Northern Concourse roof and finishes and Central Walk significantly improves circulation and station legibility, resulting in a station design that is easy and intuitive for all customers, irrespective of the mode of travel used,” says Prentice. “The new metro and concourse insertions are designed to be purposeful, functional, and sculpturally rich to complement the historic qualities of the original station.”  

Four other projects have been shortlisted alongside Central Station for the “Infrastructure and Transport” category, including Bridge over Foša (Croatia) by Prostorne Taktike; Norlys EV Charging Parks (Denmark) by Adept; Overlook Walk (USA) by Field Operations; and Portland International Airport, Main Terminal Expansion (USA) by ZGF Architects.

The shortlist announcement follows the release of the Dezeen Longlist last month, in which 259 projects were whittled down from over 4,300 entries. Dezeen Awards judge and head of lifestyle design at Bentley Ben Saltmer says the awards continue to showcase bold decisions, forward-thinking and innovation across projects around the globe. 

“This year’s architecture shortlist includes some jaw-dropping buildings created by a rich pool of talented designers from all over the world,” says Saltmer. 

Australia is the most highly represented country in this year’s shortlist, with 12 projects shortlisted from the continent. The winner of each project category will be announced live at the Dezeen Awards party on 25 November at Exhibition White City in London. 

View the full shortlist.

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Adrien Moffatt
Content and Communications Specialist (Australia)