The 2024 Houses Awards have recently announced the winners of their annual competition, celebrating the best residential projects in Australia. This prestigious event, organized by the Australian architecture magazine Houses, recognizes outstanding designs that address contemporary environmental, economic, and population challenges. The winning projects showcase a range of innovative approaches to residential architecture, from mixed living and work environments to sustainable transformations of existing homes.
One of the most coveted awards, Australian House of the Year, was bestowed upon Red Hill House and Studio in Queensland, designed by Zuzana and Nicholas. This exemplary home challenges traditional adaptations by resisting the urge to expand and instead containing all necessary spaces within the footprint of the existing worker’s cottage. The design preserves the intimate scale of the original rooms while introducing carefully placed openings to foster connections between spaces. The inclusion of a shady outdoor room, ideal for Brisbane’s climate, demonstrates a thoughtful approach to work and family life coexisting in the same space.
In the category of New House over 200 sqm, Shed House in New South Wales, designed by Breakspear Architects, was recognized for its flexible living concept that combines home and workspace. The ground floor features loosely programmed spaces arranged around a central courtyard, allowing for various configurations for business and leisure activities. The upper floor houses the domestic functions, with living areas oriented towards the courtyard and bedrooms positioned in the corners. The design embraces standard fabrication methods and materials, with a corrugated steel facade that references the Australian shed aesthetic.
Courtyard House in Victoria, designed by Clare Cousins Architects, took home the award for New House under 200 sqm. This inner-suburban residence responds to the heritage form of a former milk bar, integrating a courtyard to manage privacy while offering glimpses of joy to passers-by. The project’s simple materials and geometry blend seamlessly with the neighborhood, showcasing a sensitive and subtle approach to residential design.
In the House Alteration and Addition categories, Arcadia in New South Wales by Plus Minus Design and Blue Mountains House in New South Wales by Anthony Gill Architects were joint winners in the over 200 sqm category. Arcadia celebrates the concept of alterations and additions with skillful integration of new and existing elements, creating a harmonious dialogue between past and present. Blue Mountains House, on the other hand, sensitively renovates and extends a unique architectural gem, showcasing a masterful approach to scale, form, and context.
Red Hill House and Studio in Queensland, also designed by Zuzana and Nicholas, was the winner in the House Alteration and Addition under 200 sqm category. This project exemplifies a responsible and sustainable approach to residential architecture, demonstrating a fine-grain consideration for planning, materiality, and detailing. The design seamlessly integrates work and home life within a reworked historic Queenslander, showcasing a thoughtful and beautiful transformation.
Other notable winners include 57 Martin Street in Victoria by Neometro for the Apartment or Unit category, Redfern House in New South Wales by Anthony Gill Architects with Sacha Coles for the Garden or Landscape category, and Carrickalinga Shed in South Australia by Architects Ink for the Sustainability category.
Additionally, two emerging architecture practices were recognized for their exceptional work. Architect George in New South Wales and SSdH in Victoria were joint winners, showcasing innovative and thoughtful approaches to architectural design.
Overall, the 2024 Houses Awards celebrate the diversity and excellence of residential architecture in Australia, highlighting projects that push boundaries, embrace sustainability, and enhance the quality of living spaces for residents. These winning designs serve as inspiring examples of the power of architecture to shape our built environment and improve our daily lives.