This year, our Richmond showroom set the stage for the annual celebration of architectural excellence, the Grand Designs Australia House Of The Year Awards, held on March 21st. With a panoramic view showcasing the sun setting over the Yarra River, surrounded by beautiful designer furniture, the venue provided an idyllic setting for honouring the remarkable talent within the Australian architectural community.
As guests arrived, they were greeted with an Australian-inspired cocktail, setting the tone for a night of celebration. Throughout the evening, Small Axe catering delighted attendees with an array of delectable canapés.
The festivities kicked off with a warm welcome from Janice Williams, Publisher of Universal Media Co, who served as the event's MC. Following her introduction, April Ossington, Editor of Grand Designs Australia Magazine, and Anthony Burke, Host of Grand Designs Australia TV and Editor-at-Large, took the stage.
Burke, who brings a wealth of expertise and is recognised internationally for his work in architectural design, assembled a panel of professionals to assist him with judging. The panel included Hannah Tribe from Tribe Studio Architects, Ben Peake from Carter Williamson Architects, and Alison Page from UTS Faculty of Design, Architecture, and Building.
In addition to announcing some of the winners, Burke shared insights into the selection process and offered perspectives on the direction of architecture within the Australian landscape.
Additionally, CJ Cornish, Marketing Manager for Cosh Living, and Emma Truong, Marketing Manager for Rylock Windows & Doors, both took the opportunity to say some words and announce winners.
Dean Williamson, Country Manager of GoodWe Australia, also had the honour of announcing one lucky winner of a GoodWe Solar Energy Prize Pack value up to $10,000.
Overall, the night was a huge success, with guests enjoying the space and mingling throughout the evening. Many ended the night on our rooftop, enjoying the nightlight view over Richmond.
Grand designs HOTY, serve as a testament to the exemplary residential projects crafted by Australian architects in recent years. So, a big congratulations to all the winners below!
Small Renovation – WON BY Brcar Morony Architecture for A House for Grandma
The judges noted, “The transformation of an unused garage into a home catering to multi-gen living was beautifully planned and executed, with a result that suited the brief perfectly.”
Large Renovation – We have two WINNERS
Studio Prineas for Fisherman’s House
“Fisherman’s House was a renovation that gave care to the space and demonstrated true ‘connection with country’, while taking great care with the heritage aspects of the existing home on the site,” claimed the Judges.
Edition Office for Mary St
Mary St was a creative reimagining of a Federation-era home, which the judges considered a standout among the entries. It received particular acclaim for its expression of contrasts.
Small New Home – WON BY Architecture architecture for Sunday
Sunday is a home where occupants can always find a place of comfort. Incorporating natural textures and well-defined spaces, this is a design that provides for both physical and psychological well-being.
Large New Home – WON BY Multiplicity for Music Box
The judges were inspired by the beautiful interiors that this home presented, as well as theimpressive street presence and use of warm materials.
Interiors Specialty Category – WON BY Smart Design Studio for Amara
Amara saw a restoration of a Federation Arts and Crafts residence to its former glory, bringing in plenty of natural light. Our judges noted this work as expertly accomplished, with an incredible level of detail. This category was sponsored by Cosh Living.
Best Outdoor Integrated Living – WON BY Architecture architecture for Sunday
The Judges said; “This home is a true embodiment of indoor-outdoor living, with a seamless and very genuine integration. Experimental and intelligent, this home is both resolved and rigorous. This new category was sponsored by Cosh Living.
Energy Efficiency Specialty Category – WON BY Zen Architects for Local House
“With sustainability key to the brief and a core consideration every step of the way, this was a project that exemplified a sustainable approach to residential architecture,” claimed the Judges. This category was sponsored by Rylock Windows & Doors.
People’s Choice Category – WON BY C Kairouz Architects for Raheen
Winner of the People’s Choice Award, Raheen was highly commended by our judges for its embrace of modern styling and textures, which exemplify the emerging trends of the current architectural and design landscape.
The Grand Designs Australia Magazine House of the Year Awards proudly shine a spotlight on residential architecture. The standard this year was incredibly high, serving as testimony to the talent that exists in the field of residential architecture. Congratulations again to all the winners!
