Excellence in Housing Design Celebrated at Gold Coast and Northern Rivers Regional Architecture Awards

WORDS: Lindy Johnson PHOTOGRAPHY Supplied

Innovation, sustainability and striking residential design took centre stage as the region’s most talented architects were recognised at the Gold Coast and Northern Rivers Regional Architecture Awards. The event showcased outstanding contributions to the built environment, highlighting projects that redefine modern living while responding thoughtfully to place, climate and community needs.

Building of the Year

Building of the year: Four Dwellings on 800m2, Clare Design. Pic Collings

 ‘Four Dwellings on 800m2’ has won the Philip Follent Building of the Year at the recently announced Gold Coast and Northern Rivers Australian Institute of Architects Regional Awards.

Designed by Clare Design and located at Palm Beach, the project comprises four residential dwellings on an 800m2 site including a duplex, a house, and a granny flat that can comfortably accommodate up to 20 people.

The jury commended ‘Four Dwellings on 800m2’ as “an exploration of gentle density and intergenerational living”, while providing access to breezes, shading and natural light in a subtropical environment.

The project also received a commendation in the Residential Architecture – Multiple Housing category.

Regional Project of the Year

Regional Project of the year: Corso House, Justin Humphrey Architects. Pic Andy Macpherson

‘Corso House’ in Surfers Paradise has been awarded the Gold Coast and Northern Rivers Regional Project of the Year.

Designed by local practice Justin Humphrey Architects, the jury noted that “each surface, from floor to ceiling, forms a harmonious whole”.

Entry to the house is via a cobbled carport under a concrete canopy draped with greenery, creating a welcoming transition from outdoor to indoor.

Window openings connect internal living spaces to a shaded planting corridor, creating a sense of refuge from busy professional lives.

‘Corso House’ also received a commendation in the Residential Architecture – Houses (New) category.

House of the Year

House of the year: Kanooka House, Dan Wilson and Knight Office. Pic Yaseera Moosa

‘Kanooka House’ has been awarded the Gold Coast and Northern Rivers House of the Year.

Designed by Dan Wilson and Knight Office, the jury said the new home for a young family of four “exemplifies the capacity for architecture to bring immense value to a project despite a modest budget.”

‘Kanooka House’ also received a commendation in the Residential Architecture – Houses (New) category. 

People’s Choice Award

People’s Choice Award- Lavarack House, BDA Architecture. Andy Macpherson

‘Lavarack House’ has won this year’s Ken Newton and Brian Mossop People’s Choice Award.

Designed by BDA Architecture, Lavarack House has been thoughtfully crafted for the Gold Coast’s subtropical climate. The home’s natural ventilation ensures year-round comfort while reducing its environmental impact.