
We’re incredibly proud of our Adelaide Studio Leader, Madeleine Steele, who recently received the Stuart Main – Young Leader Award at the UDIA SA Awards for Excellence, which celebrate the outstanding projects and people shaping South Australia’s urban development industry.
The prestigious award recognises emerging industry leaders who demonstrate exceptional commitment, innovation, and the ability to inspire others.
Madeleine leads a team of 40 multidisciplinary designers and professionals with a leadership style grounded in empathy and collaboration, according to UDIA SA chief executive Liam Golding.
“In just the eight years since graduating from the University of South Australia, Madeleine Steele has forged an exceptional career that exemplifies the values celebrated by the Stuart Main – Young Leader Award,” he said.
In her acceptance speech, Madeleine reflected on her journey from arriving at Hames Sharley as a student in 2017 to her current role as a studio leader, thanking those she has worked and collaborated with.
“The people at Hames Sharley get around you, believe in you, and give you an incredible opportunity, and I share this award with my firm,” she said.
“It’s incredible to be a professional in this industry and be shaping Adelaide as it grows, and it’s an amazing time where we’ve really built confidence in the city.”
The night also brought congratulations to our client, Cedar Woods, whose Monarch Apartments at the Glenside Development won the Apartments (Mid-rise) category.
Hames Sharley’s work at Glenside includes the overall masterplan for the community and several of the multi-res buildings within it, including Monarch, Grace, Botanica, Banksia, Bloom I and Bloom II.
Monarch comprises a six-storey development of 49 homes, blending modern architecture with heritage charm. The win highlights not only the design and construction quality of Monarch, but also the shared vision that underpins the Glenside precinct: creating connected, vibrant, and enduring neighbourhoods.

Our warmest congratulations to Madeleine for her well-deserved recognition, and to Cedar Woods for the success of Monarch in contributing to an inclusive and connected community in Glenside.