Special Commendation - Best Renovation/Addition Under $300,000 
Building this architecturally designed home was a formidable challenge, requiring millimetre-perfect jointing between diverse materials. To meet these high standards, the builder invested extensive time in pre-planning, from precise set-outs to careful material choices and thorough onsite supervision. The result? A level of craftsmanship and finish that’s truly exceptional in the industry. The homeowners were absolutely ecstatic with their stunning new home, a testament to outstanding workmanship and attention to detail.
The clients wanted to create a high-end architectural extension to their existing inner-city cottage home. The extension comprised three storeys on a site with tight access, high traffic flow and overhead powerlines located at the front. The clients wanted the extension to be free-flowing, modern, sophisticated, and bold. However, the connection of the old original cottage to the modern extension was to be integrated and not to feel out of place. The concept of the design was bold and showcased a huge amount of glass, low pitched roofs with parapets, multiple cladding types, with multiple levels, Heka hoods to provide shade on the northern side and huge exposed steel columns to ground the home, bringing gravity to the vast space.
Matthew Tennent began his carpentry journey at 18, gaining invaluable experience with Metricon and Henley Homes. By 26, he became a registered builder and founded Vigor Homes, where he now serves as the sole director. With a diploma in construction and more than nine years of experience delivering high-value homes, Matthew is dedicated to quality and local partnerships. His team, operating on a profit-sharing basis, reflects his commitment to staff retention. Influenced by mentors and passionate about sustainable building, Matthew’s focus on OHS and excellence has earned him the title of ‘2024 Residential Young Builder of the Year.’
The renovation of this single-story house was a remarkable success, exceeding all expectations. The transformation of the kitchen, laundry, and living room was nothing short of impressive with the old-fashioned and dimly-lit spaces giving way to bright, open, and modern ones. The addition of bi-folding doors in both the master bedroom and kitchen area allowed for a seamless integration of the indoor and outdoor spaces, which leads out to a contemporary timber deck, making the surrounding environment an integral part of the overall design. The house was upgraded to include a fully integrated kitchen and European laundry with handle-less joinery throughout, giving it a sleek and modern look.
The plan was for a master bedroom and ensuite extension to the studio cottage to create a private space that fitted with both the style of the existing structure and the environment in which it sits. Internally the focus was always on simplicity and the feeling of light and space. The clients had very specific ideas for the ensuite including a large open shower area with bi-fold doors to create an indoor/outdoor shower. Externally, the new structure had to sit well in the environment and not detract from but add to the existing stone structure. The clients were open to taking some risks with the external cladding and loved the look of Corten steel which takes advantage of the colours and textures of the natural environment and the existing stone structure.
This project entailed creating a space to store and display the client’s luxury cars but to also have views of the pool and garden area. The new garage was to be visible from the existing house and entertaining area. The brief was to construct a structure that could withstand the elements but at the same time still have a grand and luxurious look to it. To achieve this the construction included high-end details that were crafted out by skilled tradesmen that specialise in high end projects. Luxury materials that were sourced from Italy, Greece and other parts of the world as well as hand crafted here in Australia were used and assembled on this project.
The project involved achieving a contemporary family addition and renovation, all the while remaining sympathetic to the neighbourhood character, making sure to complement the existing street presence. The contrasting colours, along with the striking portal frame gable look achieved exactly that. The extension was designed to create a home fit for a growing family, adding a secondary master suite to accommodate guests, as well as a home office, and open-plan living and alfresco suitable for hosting family get-togethers. The overall flow of the rooms was an important point in the brief, which was deftly realised.
As is often the case with extensions and renovations, the original scope of works evolved and, in this case, the owners decided to undertake a full period refurbishment of the dwelling. The original brief was to retain the front rooms and add an open-plan extension at the rear, along with a kids domain upstairs. Ground floor works consisted of adding a walk-in wardrobe and ensuite to the existing main bedroom, a new kitchen, meals area, family room, powder room, laundry and covered alfresco with outdoor kitchen. The second storey “kids domain” would provide two bedrooms, a sitting room, bathroom and separate water closet. The original front rooms were re-plastered, re-stumping, a new subfloor, reproduction Tasmanian Oak windows and a new entry door installed; the verandah was also originally to remain untouched, however it was in a poor state and was replaced with full respect to period detail.
The home excluding the first floor bedroom, ensuite, walk-in wardrobe and decking was demolished to make way for a more suitable residence for the owners. home was reimagined to suit the owners’ needs. The renovation included a mudroom, which is central to a double garage and a single garage, a bathroom, water closet, laundry, two bedrooms with build-in wardrobes and a study desk installed in pone of these, a media room and wine cellar, dining room and kitchen opening to the alfresco, which overlooks the pool. The wine cellar is placed directly behind the media room with the tinted glass. The dining through to the alfresco has a 25 degree pitch with a conventional roof to get the raked ceilings we have the highlight windows up above the sliding doors which exit onto the outdoor area overlooking the pool.
The scope of works involved the demolition of the rear of the existing property, including an existing pool shell. The extension was constructed over where the existing pool was located, so the pool had to be backfilled to ensure it would not result in settlement over time. A new pool was constructed in the back yard, and concrete slab poured for the new extension, which included the construction of a new kitchen, living, second living/rumpus, dining room, wine cellar, butler’s pantry, powder room and laundry. Existing rooms to the front of the house were modified to suit a new layout which was made up of a master bedroom with a walk-in wardrobe and ensuite, study, bathroom and three bedrooms. Externally, the front of the house (weatherboards) were restored and re-painted. New timber windows to match the style of the existing windows were installed to the front part of the house, with slimline aluminium windows and large skylights used throughout the extension.
To start this project, the demolition of a substantial portion of the existing dwelling and previous extensions, including the existing landscaping, back to the original California bungalow and clear block ready for construction. The original Californian bungalow featured elements such as red brick, chunky stucco, beautiful stained glass windows, ornate ceiling roses and skirts, and the clients wanted to keep theseand introduce more space and contemporary detailing in a two-storey addition, including a beautifully designed garden landscape and pool area. The result is a five-bedroom home, with original detailing to the front rooms, wide entry hall opening to the contemporary detailing at the rear, starting with a soft and ornate feature spiral stair, with spaces flooded in natural light, double height ceilings, soft curves and beautiful natural stones.
The Savanna 223 Display Home is a charming four-bedroom home, thoughtfully designed to maximise space and comfort, featuring two distinct living areas that cater to the diverse needs of modern families. The intelligent use of space ensures that every corner of the home feels welcoming and functional, creating an inviting environment that instantly makes anyone feel at home. The Savanna 223 is a standout addition to the Haven by SJD Homes range, a range specifically crafted with a focus on first home buyers and investors aiming to simplify their entry into the property market. Haven by SJD Homes revolutionises the home buying experience by demonstrating that affordability does not have to compromise quality.
The Lloyd has solidified its reputation as a timeless and enduring home design that stands the test of time. It offers open-plan living and configurations to suit a range of lifestyle and budgets. In addition, on offer is a wide range of predetermined alternative layout options and popular façade choices that further enhances the ability to custom the home design and add one’s unique touch. This 29 square home is a four-bedroom house design that blends modern family living with spaciousness, functionality and flexibility. The open living space to the front of the home provides a separate sanctuary away from the heart of the home.
The Norfolk 28 Display Home, located at Kaduna Park Estate in Officer South, presents a stunning combination of elegance and spaciousness for potential homeowners. This home highlights Beachwood Homes’ commitment to functionality and aesthetics, demonstrated at first glance by the striking gable rooflines and elegant timber cladding, radiating a contemporary and welcoming vibe on approach. There is a vast open-plan area at the rear, which is bathed in natural light and offers a sense of grandeur. A standout feature is the impressive insitu atrium room, which effortlessly merges with the indoor space through sliding doors, enhanced by skylights to provide a perfect setting for entertainment throughout the year. Accommodating four generously sized bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, a study nook, and numerous other amenities tailored for family life, the home’s flexible floor plan, extensive standard inclusions, and ample layout have contributed to its appeal among those seeking innovative design and layout.
Emerald Place Display Suite, South Melbourne, was designed by internationally renowned architecture firm Woods Bagot, to create a reimagined version of the project development which stands as a contemporary icon that draws inspiration from South Melbourne’s characteristic brick-built structures. The design offers a boutique experience within a grand vision, embracing the rich architectural history of the surrounding late 19th and early 20th-century buildings. The development showcases an exclusive collection of thirty-six superbly designed homes, ranging from two- to four-bedroom apartments with 45% of apartment north facing, and bay glimpses from select apartments on level 6, all unified by a common theme of modern luxury.
The steep nature of the display block provided the opportunity to take advantage of the spectacular views over the rear valley by incorporating a split level into an already amazing floor plan. The Botanica is a stunning home design that offers a perfect blend of functionality and style, sure to delight homeowners. One of its standout features is the magnificent master bedroom, complete with a large ensuite bathroom and his and hers walk-in-robes, providing a luxurious retreat within the home. The heart of the Botanica is its spacious open-plan living area, which includes a contemporary kitchen design with a butler’s pantry, a family room, dining area, and outdoor room. This setup is perfect for modern living, providing ample space for family gatherings and entertaining guests.
The Lorne 40 Display Home, featuring a Hamptons-inspired façade that Australians have come to love, is a stand-out feature in the Display Village at Meridian Estate in Clyde North. This home showcases the popular Lorne 40 floorplan, tailored for large families, offering up to five bedrooms and three expansive living areas, providing ample space for each individual to enjoy their own private sanctuary. Upon entering, you’re greeted by a floorplan designed with multi-generational families in mind. Each bedroom on the first floor is equipped with a walk-in wardrobe and ensuite, ensuring a personal haven for every family member. Additional highlights of the home include living spaces on both levels, a dedicated study area, a vast kitchen with butler’s pantry, and a grand master suite with a luxurious ensuite and plentiful wardrobe space.
Designed to suit a larger block size, the Adah seamlessly combines architectural sophistication, considered design and stunning aesthetics to form a home with spaces that exude warmth, functionality, and embody the spirit of contemporary Australian living. The central hub of the home features a generously proportioned, open-plan layout, highlighted by a soaring vaulted ceiling reaching up to 4.2m. Here, a meticulously appointed kitchen, boasting high-end appliances and abundant storage, is seamlessly integrated with a well-appointed butler’s pantry. Designed with a focus on family gatherings and contemporary lifestyles, the dining and living zones effortlessly transition onto an inviting entertainment-friendly alfresco area. This outdoor retreat extends to a picturesque landscape featuring a pool, decking area, and meticulously crafted garden, completing the Adah’s commitment to modern family living.
The Bittern Cabin is set on two acres of lowland forest. The brief was for a virtually off-grid small studio and garage, as a precursor to a future, more substantial dwelling to be constructed at a later date. The architect and clients wanted the cabin to be constructed out of sustainable materials that, where possible, were sourced locally and had a small ecological footprint. The were difficulties associated with the site, as it has a high bushfire rating, and there are a lack of utilities available in the area, such as town water and sewerage. To meet the BAL requirements, the Bittern Cabin is wrapped and protected by fire resistent pre-charred Red Ironbark cladding, which also covers the bi-fold opening shutters that protect the glazing when the cabin is uninhabited, and also act as privacy blinds when the cabin is occupied. The cabin was exceptionally labour intensive, with every aspect of the build being handcrafted, and therefore required a great deal of energy and enthusiasm, which was well suited to the bespoke building business.
Our clients sought a high performing certified passive house to ensure their health and comfort. To them a passive house would answer their needs to have a home that encompasses not only sustainable building practices and running costs but also allows them year round comfort and in particular a healthy living environment. This house features an exceptional quality of construction, setting a standard that prioritises energy efficiency, comfort, and sustainability. In particular attention was paid to the building envelope. This home features high-quality insulation, ensuring minimal thermal bridging and reduced heat loss or gain. The construction materials selected here adhere to strict standards, promoting durability and longevity.
This project was unique, as the existing building was a single car garage with a total site area of 47sq m and was bought in 2020 in a highly contested auction that gained extensive media coverage. Alongside Plico Design Architects, Willoworks created this three-level townhouse constructed with precast concrete. A lot of thought went into this as with such a tight site, immediate access was essential without overcrowding the workspace so we came up with the idea to introduce cantilevered concrete stairs, these formed a fantastic feature and really opened up the space. The townhouse consisted of two bedrooms, a small courtyard, large bathroom/laundry, powder room, large living room and a generous rooftop terrace with glass opening roof.
Elevating luxury to new heights, this show-stopping double-storey dwelling is nestled in the heart of Craigieburn, showcasing unparalleled sophistication and grandeur. This expansive family home is a true testament to opulent living. The property impresses from the outset with a spacious three-car garage, leading to a large tiled alfresco area complete with an outdoor kitchen featuring a built-in barbecue and beer on tap, as well as a luxurious pool house equipped with a steam room. The focal point of the outdoor sanctuary is a beautifully crafted pool with a spa, perfectly aligned with an outdoor TV, creating an idyllic setting for entertainment and relaxation. Inside, the home exudes contemporary elegance, maximising both space and natural light on its generous block. A marvelous void seamlessly connects the hallway and lounge room to the upper floor, creating a sense of grandeur and openness. The living room is anchored by a built-in fireplace with a feature stone wall, serving as a captivating centerpiece that complements the sophisticated ambiance of the space.
Artisan House in Melbourne’s Kew is a striking two-level, 483sq m, five-bedroom and five-bathroom family residence, designed by WALL Architects. LHG Developments was involved from the initial feasibility stages, through to project management and delivery across all the trades. The builder’s custom-building skills and craftsmanship can be seen throughout. The project features 25 soaring columns, a spectacular 7.3m high front door, and extensive 3.7m glass doorways that open to a landscaped pool area. The interiors showcase the builder’s attention to detail, as seen in the sweeping central staircase, which is carefully hand-rendered in microcement to complement the plastered interior walls and architectural columns. The kitchen features layers of marble, with a sprawling island bench complemented by a curved marble splashback that extends to the ceiling. The concave design adds a highly articulated and intricate detail, blending seamlessly with marble-faced cabinetry.
Having the availability of 180+ degree views from the open ocean to the surrounding hills, design of the living areas was focused on bringing these into view. The cantilevered front living area gave an undercover shelter for the outdoor dining and barbecue areas.The external crazy paving and blockwork flowed from the outside to in through the front door, down the hallway and out the back french doors to blend the inside and out. The main bedroom, ensuite, kitchen and living areas were upstairs to allow for the clients, once inside, to remain on the top level. The small deck upstairs with stack sliding doors to bring the sea views inside. The remaining bedrooms, bathrooms and second living area were downstairs for when the children and grandchildren came to visit.
The house was designed as a series of low-slung volumes, partially buried in the landscape, with raw textured finishes intended to weather the elements and create a sense of permanence. Deep window reveals and heavy brick columns create a sense of heaviness that is contrasted with finely detailed blackbutt timber joinery both inside and outside the house. A series of courtyards create a range of sheltered spaces with various aspects out across the spectacular site. Although the house reads as two simple rectangular forms in the landscape, in section the construction is much more complex. A series of height changes that follow the contours of the site, create a partially buried garage at one end of the house. Integrated garden walls and perfectly executed junctions between each of the building elements has created an extremely elegant, understated building volume.
The team at Vigor Homes was engaged to help deliver the vision of two ambitious owners and the intent of the project was to deliver off-grid living with no compromise. This style of thinking alongside some key design decisions has helped create a truly sustainable home with all the creature comforts included in a grid reliant home. As the inclusions added up it was clear more solar would be needed to provide the power for the home so a large garage was added to house the panels. There was a large amount of detail throughout as most walls were completed in a timber lining or veneer panel due to the owners distaste of plaster. As all of the feature timber was recycled from the trees from site, there was a lot of manipulation that took place to install it to a high standard. As the home is in a bushfire prone area, care was taken to ensure all compliance was met.
Pippins takes its name from the original apple orchard on the red hill estate. The design of this project was guided by two core principles: a thoughtful response to the environment and a pursuit of elegant simplicity. The decision to position the house slightly lower than the site’s crest was a strategic choice. This placement allowed integration with the landscape, and meant the home didn’t sit proud of the natural topography. Simplicity was at the forefront of the home’s concept, which included the ”flying roof,” comprising two overlapping solid concrete roofs. These roofs cantilever 2.5m along the perimeter of the home, and extend to 3.5 meters at the corners. The program was defined by the X-shaped floor plan, creating four distinct zones. This layout allowed the clients to separate spaces to suit their needs.
Positioned in the Melbourne suburb of Toorak, Nareeb House is a modern inspired architectural home designed and built by AGUSHI. Built on a corner block of 740sq m, this predominantly single level house sits above an underground basement and is made up of four bedrooms, each with ensuites, three living areas, a study, five car garage and resort styled terrace and pool garden. The Nareeb House was built for siblings to share as they pursue their respective careers, and for their international-based parents to keep as an Australian home for their regular visits. The house is to also satisfy the role of a generational home for future grandchildren and extended family as their family continues to grow.
The quality of construction achieved on the townhouses is on full view from the street. There are sweeping curves across the facade which are the key external feature of the home. During framing, Virgon stick built all of these curved walls with our own Carpentry Team and placed paramount importance on ensuring the radius and stud spacings would accommodate the tight curves designed once cladding and wall linings were installed. Internally, the highlight of the project is the triple level, helical staircase of Townhouse 1. From the very beginning of the project, Virgon worked closely with the architect to ensure that the stair radius was carefully designed to achieve the stringer twist as designed. Curved formwork and concreting was incorporated into the ground floor suspended slab to ensure the stairs finished at the correct location. The stair itself was built using curved pine timber which was manufactured off site and installed without any issues on site.
The scope of works for the Ocean st residences was to develop and deliver a beachside townhouse complex featuring basement construction, reinforced concrete suspended slabs, prominent metalwork, and timber elements. The plan was to utilise high-end materials and finishes, timber framing and locally sourced veneer clad joinery for aesthetic appeal and functionality. The architecture celebrates the local heritage through a modern interpretation. Grand in scale and stature the homes carefully integrate into the surrounding environment with wooden screening and cladding thoughtfully applied indoors and out. Handcrafted sandstone brickwork forms a podium for balcony arbours and angled articulations, providing a canvas for shadows to draw as the sun moves across the sky.
Virgon’s involvement was for the full construction of the entire four apartment development, including construction of all landscaping and swimming pool works. The exterior of the design encapsulates classic Toorak grandeur. With a bold façade that comprises a custom white polished rendering finish with custom built pillars to the front façade. The interior, while grand, has more of a contemporary flair. The main areas are expansive, open plan areas that are personified in contemporary home living. Natural light is captured throughout with area such as the three oversized skylights in the Penthouse living room and full height steel windows to Apartment 1. There are several feature arched windows within the interior of the apartments which are used to create barriers between living spaces. The apartments sit atop a 10-car basement that has had an epoxy finish applied to all floor areas and rendering continued to all walls.
Sera Brighton is a sustainably designed development that seamlessly blends with its surroundings and offers an elevated Brighton lifestyle. Just a quick walk to the Dendy Village amenities, this luxurious haven provides the perfect balance of convenience and tranquillity while paying homage to the existing building’s architectural identity. Lowe Living and acclaimed architecture firm Warren & Mahoney partnered to deliver a boutique and architecturally designed building that showcases 13 luxury apartments and commercial spaces on the ground floor. Focusing on the site context and history, Warren & Mahoney designed the building’s three-tier podium façade, emphasising the striking geometry of the arched design program, as textured white brickwork, bronze framing, smooth concrete balustrades and luxurious travertine stone cladding combine to communicate the visual artistry at play.
Located in Melbourne’s leafy South Eastern suburb of Oakleigh South, Amara encompasses a sustainable urban neighbourhood surrounded by nature. Consisting of 96 high-end townhouses, this prime residential precinct offers two, three and four bedroom residences designed for family life with a strong connection to indoor-outdoor living. The completion of Amara Oakleigh South marks not just the end of a construction phase but the beginning of a new chapter for those who now call it home. Whether you’re a young professional, a growing family, or someone looking to downsize without compromising on quality, there’s a home for everyone at Amara. Residents can look forward to enjoying a range of amenities designed to enhance their lifestyle. From landscaped gardens and recreational areas to modern conveniences and sustainable features, every aspect of Amara Townhouse is designed with the resident’s well-being in mind.
The design of Emerald Place offers a boutique experience within a grand vision, embracing the rich architectural history of the surrounding buildings. This extends to the kitchen as well. The large 3m long island bench, countertops, and splashback are adorned with honed natural stone, elevating the visual elegance of the kitchen while ensuring durability and a high-quality finish. The combined choices of material reflect the commitment to high-quality and premium materials sourced in the construction. The sophisticated design continues with energy-efficient Gaggenau appliances, including a 60cm built-in oven, 90cm induction cooktop and range hood, Gaggenau combi microwave oven, and integrated dishwasher, as well as a fully integrated Liebherr side-by-side fridge and freezer, and a large double sink. There is also a Zip tap and a Vintec wine fridge in the wall in scullery, which features an elegant drinks display, with mirrored back and LED lighting. The scullery also includes an additional sink, providing convenience and luxury.
Turn Group was passionate about achieving the best outcome for their clients and this kitchen has truly achieved this. Through the demolition of internal finishes and structural demolition to open the kitchen-living area the builders created a light and bright functional kitchen to be enjoyed by the clients and their guests for many years to come. While the kitchen design is functional and finishes consist of timber veneer, two-pac and stainless steel which complement the old exposed timber floor beams perfectly creating an effortless and liveable space making the most of the incredible views. The kitchen is made of local timber veneer and stainless with seamless lines providing a neat outcome that is both pleasing to the eye, practical and finished to a high standard.
The project entails the construction of a premium kitchen and butler’s pantry designed to exude high quality and functionality. Detailed cabinetry is meticulously crafted to elevate the spatial aesthetics, complemented by a buttery warm color palette to create an inviting ambiance. The kitchen features integrated amenities including a bar, fridge, freezer, and food pantry, all seamlessly incorporated within the layout. Smart appliances, blending advanced technology with visually appealing design installed throughout. A statement island bench serves as a focal point, enhancing both functionality and visual appeal. Additionally, the design prioritizes the incorporation of natural light to illuminate the space, enhancing its overall atmosphere.
View House was conceived as a pavilion within the landscape, seamlessly merging architectural refinement with its nearby coastal surroundings. In the pursuit of creating a truly remarkable luxury residence, the vision was to design a home that seamlessly blends contemporary aesthetics with an inviting warmth. The kitchen design caters to the needs of everyday family life while offering a wealth of amenities reminiscent of a luxury resort. Every detail of this residence has been meticulously designed to elevate the lifestyle of its residents.The kitchen boasts a wealth of luxury fittings and fixtures including CDK Stone ‘Turco Argento’ benchtop and splashback, Polytec laminate to cabinetry, Lo&Co fridge handles, Linear Standard cupboard handles, Reece fixtures and fittings, Miele integrated dishwasher, SubZero integrated fridge, SubZero integrated freezer, SubZero beverage centre, Wolf oven, Wolf convection steam oven, Wolf multifunction module; and Wolf induction cooktop.
The Master Ensuite within the Lorne 40 Display Home at Meridian Estate in Clyde North, is a testament to opulence and serene beauty, capturing the essence of Hamptons style with its balance of crisp lines and a subtle palette of whites and greys. Tranquillity rules in this timeless, elegant haven. Anchoring the room is the luxurious freestanding bathtub, promising a retreat into relaxation. The frameless glass-enclosed shower contributes to the ensuite’s spacious and breathable atmosphere, while a dual vanity topped with overmount white basins emphasises practicality without forgoing the refined aesthetic.The room is gracefully surrounded in ceiling-to-floor tiles, adding to its grandeur and echoing the Hamptons’ affinity for seamless elegance.
The Adah ensuite reflects the high-quality and unique style that Roseleigh Homes is known for. With a clean and contemporary style, the bathroom features flat panel Boston Oak Woodmatt cabinetry that provides a seamless and consistent look, with the warmth of the wood finish enriching the feel of the ensuite. Inset Caesarstone benchtop complements the neutral tones of the bathroom and the ceiling to floor mirror maximises the luxurious sense of space. The overall design speaks to an elegant minimalism, prioritising both simplicity and practicality. This creates a luxurious yet understated space that resonates with homeowners seeking distinction without a high price tag.
The highlight of this ensuite is the views across the hills, the white freestanding bath situated in front of the picture window with a Hustle floor mounted bath mixer in matt black sets a scene of serenity. A double walk through shower with a full shower shelf, shower kits and channel waste, all in matt black, using 600 x 600 Polar silver lappato tiles to line the walls and floors with again using matt black trims finish the look. The vanity is large with two above bench Kado lussic basins in white with matt black tapware, sitting on intense white Caesarstone benches, the cabintery is Boston oak wood matt with Touch Livorno handles.
Situated in the coastal haven of Mount Eliza, Retreat House offers residents a sanctuary, delivering occupants a balance of seclusion and connection to nature. Designed as an escape from everyday life. The goal was to create a grand, yet inviting master ensuite, that complements the elegance of a large luxury home. This was accomplished by carefully selecting premium materials and high-end fittings. It was also equally important to ensure that the bathroom maintained a warm and inviting ambiance where residents can relax and unwind. To achieve this, meticulous attention was given to the choice of materials, colours, and textures. This created a harmonious environment that fosters a sense of calm and tranquility within the space while still preserving the luxurious and visually striking design.
This new residential home in Werribee included a big underground basement for the single level brick veneer home. The frame sits 7m high, made up of 3.4m trusses and 3.6m wall frames. The concrete slab (400 cubic metres) included 240 bored piers 3m deep into the ground. A safety consultant helped set up the systems and policies. Key points included barriers and signage while the basement and footings were constructed, erection of the roof trusses with a 16 tonne crane, ample scaffold as fall protection, closing up truss spacings and roof battens spacings due to being so high off the ground, changing the perimeter walls to 140 mm wide to be easier to walk on, and reducing the size of the prefab walls to avoid injury when installing.
This project involved the design and construction of a single storey, four-bedroom display home to suit a 14m x 32m block. A prime consideration was to maximise the solar aspect of the block and ensuring an abundance of natural light into the home. This home is all-electric, 100% carbon neutral and 7-star energy rated. Arden Homes create sophisticated, energy efficient designs that are not only beautiful, but improve the way clients clients live by being kinder to our environment. As part of their everyday inclusions, they offer energy saving solar panels, double glazing, LED downlights and reverse-cycle heating and cooling.
The clients were first and foremost seeking a high performing certified passive house to ensure their health and comfort. To them a passive house would answer their needs to have a home that encompasses not only sustainable building practices and running costs but also allows them year round comfort and in particular a healthy living environment. Vital to achieving this was conserving water resources through rainwater harvesting and storage, minimising external concrete and utilising mulching in gardens; incorporating renewable energy power sources thanks to 7.4kW of solar panels, a 7.1 kWh redback battery, north facing windows and the home achieved a 7.6 start energy rating; incorporating energy-efficient services for lighting, heating, air conditioning and ventilation ; and the design of waste management and recycling initiatives, whereby compostable materials are returned back into the landscape as a circular economy.
The intent of the project was to deliver off-grid living with no compromise. As the inclusions added up it was clear more solar would be needed to provide the power for the home so a large garage was added to house the panels. As the home was 100% off-grid renewable energy was key in helping this home function without compromise. All water is taken from the roof area and collected in the rainwater tanks; to keep the water clean UV filters were fitted. All sewerage is gravity feed down to a worm farm waste management system meaning there is little to no maintenance. To help this home run smoothly an automation system was installed so needless energy wasn't exhausted on powering items needlessly. All water and the main heating is all through the use of heat pumps. Four external car charges ensure the owners and their guests cars are charged from the solar power generated from the roof panels.
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