A Noosa hinterland home has been honoured at the 2024 HIA-CSR Queensland Housing Awards that celebrate the best in residential construction throughout the State.
The awards, held at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre (BCEC), saw a stunning project by Sarah Waller Building announced Queensland Home of the Year.
Recognising achievements across a variety of categories, these awards highlight innovation, quality, and sustainability in Queensland’s housing sector, serving as a benchmark of excellence for the industry.
Blackwood, by Sarah Waller Building, is a pavilion-style masterpiece that reimagines family living with separate zones for socialising, rest, and work, as well as a self-contained studio for multi-generational needs.
With indoor-outdoor spaces designed for gatherings, a sunken firepit for intimate evenings, and a striking 21-metre freshwater pool reflecting the architectural lines, Blackwood epitomises luxurious yet functional design.
Its contemporary aesthetic – characterised by off-form concrete, black timber cladding, and a minimalist monochromatic palette – creates a serene atmosphere that complements the surrounding landscape and adjacent golf course.
HIA Queensland executive director Mike Roberts said the awards were a reminder that despite the significant challenges of the past few years, the home building industry in Queensland continues to do great things.
“The innovative design and high-quality workmanship on show at these awards is a testament to the high level of skill that sits within the home building industry in Queensland,” said Mr Roberts.
The awards represent the industry’s commitment to pushing boundaries and enhancing standards across construction and design.
“These awards play a critical role in setting benchmarks, and inspiring builders and developers to innovate in response to evolving lifestyle needs and sustainability demands.
“Each winning project embodies the spirit of craftsmanship and forward-thinking that is driving Queensland’s housing market into the future.”
Sarah Waller Architecture is an award-winning design studio based on the Sunshine Coast, specialising in luxury residential design and bespoke architectural homes. They create spaces that blend timeless elegance with functionality.
Sarah’s qualifications include Bachelor of Arts, Masters in Architecture and an Open Builder’s Licence,
Blackwood features the beauty of nature, overlooking a series of serene dams. Sarah’s belief in water as a calming influence and an essential component of the design is evident throughout. The house is strategically positioned for privacy from the street, evoking a sense of curiosity and intrigue for passersby. The architecture exudes a feeling of sturdiness and resilience, artfully balanced by the lush, cascading plantings and the carefully crafted landscaping that surrounds it.
It is important to us that the projects we produce are sustainable and low-impact. We create our homes with consideration of our environment by building with sustainable and local materials where possible and reducing energy use with design that utilises our beautiful Australian climate and meets thermal requirements.
Taking out the title of 2024 Queensland Apprentice of the Year is Sam Spencer from Mamet Homes in Bracken Ridge, whose commitment to learning, technical skill, and passion for the trade has set him apart as a stand-out in his field.
Professional Builder of the Year Awards were also presented, recognising builders who demonstrate outstanding business practices, customer service, and commitment to quality:
Professional Small Builder/Renovator: Walter Design & Development;
Professional Medium Builder/Renovator: Hudson Homes;
Professional Major Builder: Brighton Homes.
Other major award winners include: • Renovation/Addition Project of the Year: Romark Design Constructions;
Custom Built Home of the Year: Sarah Waller Building;
Apartment of the Year: Mactech Constructions
Townhouse/Villa of the Year: Kamber Construct;
Display Home of the Year: Ultra Living Homes;
Apartment Complex Winner: Aria Property Group;
Project Home Winner: Stroud Homes South Brisbane;
Spec Home Winner: Sabdia Constructions.
