Winners of the 2014 HIA-CSR Australian Housing Awards have been announced, with Western Australian builder Giorgi Exclusive Homes taking home the top accolade, Australian Home of the Year.

The resort style home features a contemporary design that is suitable for the Mediterranean climate of Perth. Taking advantage of its aspect, natural light and ventilation is abundant throughout the home, and the living spaces offer privacy and comfort between different zones.

Judges were impressed by the project’s “stunning mix of sophisticated elegance and architectural design”, and also awarded it the Australian Custom Built Home prize.

Tasmania’s Cordwell Lane, who transformed an unused space into a penthouse apartment, won the Australian Apartment award. Its ‘omnipod’ design is said to blend seamlessly with the existing commercial building beneath it, and exquisite details were achieved by doing most of the work off-site.

by Cordwell Lane

Alvoro Bros Builders in NSW won Australian Renovation/Addition Project, with the judges praising the skill and standard of workmanship that went into the restoration of a Victorian mansion.

by Alvoro Bros Builders

The 21 winners of the program come from across Australia, and are selected from a list of state-based finalists.

The awards, held annually, seek to recognise the talent of builders, designers, and industry professionals who plan and construct quality new housing, apartments, renovations, kitchens and bathrooms. 

Full shortlist:

2014 HIA-CSR Australian Home of the Year

Giorgi Exclusive Homes (WA)

Australian Apartment

Cordwell Lane (TAS)

Australian Apartment Complex

CABE Developments (NSW)

The judges said the resort style apartments, which offer beach views and comfortable seaside living, have been designed to maximise natural cross-flow ventilation and sliding metal louvres to reduce heat from direct sunlight. 

Australian Townhouse/Villa

Devrite Constructions (WA)

The judges said this well-designed home maximised the available space, and were impressed by the quality and value for money of the “forward thinking trades”.

Australian Townhouse/Villa Development

Mirvac (Docklands) Pty Ltd (VIC)

Located within walking distance of Melbourne’s CBD, each townhouse matches the recent Docklands’ development which includes a promenade and marina. 

Australian Special Purpose Housing Project

Tallwood Constructions (WA)

This 15 unit respite care centre demonstrates high aesthetic appeal and a thoughtful design for its residents. Comfortable lounge areas are easily accessed, while a community kitchen and dining area make the centre feel like home. 

Australian Spec Home

Grandwood Homes (WA)

Judges described this home as an “exceptional example of the modern technology age”, with almost everything accessible via a phone app. High quality fixtures and workmanship also show great attention to detail. 

Australian Display Home

Better Building Services and TT Architecture (ACT)

The jury noted the trade workmanship of this home, as well as the design which balances urban and environmental features to create a sustainable living space. 

Australian Renovation/Addition Project

Alvaro Bros Builders Pty Ltd (NSW)

Australian Outdoor Project

Sceam Construction (VIC)

Praised for its “immediate wow factor”, this Summer House incorporates a seamless transition from indoor to outdoor living. The barbeque area is easily accessed from the pavilion via sensor or manually operated glass doors, adding to the appeal of year-round outdoor entertaining. 

Australian Project Home

Camelot Homes (NSW)

This grand family home fits the client’s brief for a ‘rural estate’ type home suited to its surrounds, and features a considered design with excellent flow between living spaces. 

Australian Solutions in Steel

RG Burness Constructions (QLD)

The judges said this was a “standout example of effectively using steel in creating a practical and stylish home”. The façade features several different materials, which enhanced the character of the house and helps it blend into the surrounds. 

Australian Bathroom Design

Minosa (NSW)

Described as a “luxurious day spa style design”, the sandstone cliff face is remarkable, while the glass sliding doors on one wall of the shower opens it up to the elements and allows natural air flow.

Australian Bathroom

Rosin Building Pty Ltd and MMM Interiors (ACT)

The marble wall behind the bath creates a sophisticated look and feel, and a concealed steam room is clad in glass mosaic tiles to add to the sense of luxury. 

Australian Kitchen Design

Craig Sheiles Homes and International Cabinets (WA)

The space of this kitchen is divided into a crisp and clean entertaining and social area, and a functional prep zone with a stainless steel bench. The timber veneer injects warmth to the contrasting sharp straight lines. 

Australian Kitchen

AG Constructions (VIC)

A fish tank wall is this kitchen’s central focal point, while the judges noted the seamless flow from the kitchen through to the alfresco entertaining area.

Jim Brookes Apprentice

Sam Drury (VIC)

Australian Professional Major Builder

Dale Alcock Homes (WA)

Australian Professional Medium Builder/Renovator

Dale Alcock Home Improvement (WA)

Australian Professional Small/Renovator Builder

Amerex Renovations & Additions (WA)

Australian Business Partner

Heather Ghidella of MyStyle Homes (QLD)