Buildings commissioned by the City of Durban scored in the 1997/98 South African Institute of Architects Merit and Conservation Awards for KZN. Merit awards were presented to the International Convention Centre (architects Stauch Vorster, Hallen Custers Smith, Johnson Murray); the Durban Metro Electricity Training Centre in Springfield Park (architects McCaffery Wilkinson & Little); and the KwaMakhutha Library (architects Elphick Proome).

Among the recipients of the Conservation awards was the restored and converted Stratford Road Community Centre (architects Emmett Emmett). Another well-deserving winner was the Maria Ratschitz Mission Church in Wasbank, Northern KZN, now restored to its former glory by architects Robert JW Brusse. The restoration incorporated the blacksmith shop and the Maria Ratschitz convent.

“Special Mentions” were also given to the Zimbali Country Club and Zimbali Lodge (architects Theunissen Jankowitz SA Inc), Highseas Holiday Cottage in Sheffield Beach (architect Dean Jay), and 5-7 Escombe Terrace, part of the Point Waterfront development in Durban (architects VARA Architects and Urban Designers CC in association with Mtetwa & Associates Architects)