In the evolution of contemporary architecture, the focus has shifted towards maximizing space, light, and a sense of connectedness rather than merely accumulating a high number of rooms or luxurious finishes. Stephanie Burton emphasizes this trend, highlighting that their design choice prioritizes natural light and spatial volume over conventional opulence, such as ornate stone finishes. This perspective stems partly from budget considerations, yet the luxury derived from well-lit, spacious environments is unmistakable. Their choice of enduring materials, including recycled bricks and polished concrete floors, reflects a commitment to sustainability and practicality, befitting modern living standards.
Burton and her partner Joseph Lovell have notably enhanced their home’s connection to the outdoors, incorporating expansive glass doors framed in timber that open seamlessly into their garden. This design choice promotes an interactive environment where their children can blend indoor and outdoor play, fostering engagement with nature and the surrounding community. This emphasis on creating accessible and inviting spaces illustrates how architectural design can facilitate more meaningful connections between family members and their external environment.
Reflecting on her design experience, Burton expresses a profound satisfaction in inhabiting a space that embodies her creative vision. This opportunity reveals the practical implications of architectural decisions, allowing her to understand what works effectively and what could be improved. However, she acknowledges that some choices, such as lime-washed walls, have proven less practical for a family setting due to difficulties in maintenance—specifically, the challenge of removing marks left by children’s writing tools. This insight highlights the importance of considering long-term usability in design.
Among other notable Victorian homes that received accolades, the Hedge and Arbour House by Studio Bright stands out for its innovative wrapping in vines, earning recognition in the category for new houses over 200 square meters. Another distinguished entry, Mess Hall by Architecture Architecture, captures attention for its community center-like appearance, showcasing a successful reconfiguration of a Victorian terrace that won an award for excellence in heritage contexts.
In the realm of smaller dwellings, the Sawmill Treehouse by Robbie Walker exemplifies the increasing popularity of compact living spaces. Suspended amid gum trees in Mansfield, this tranquil cabin serves as an Airbnb rental and has garnered accolades for being the best new house under 200 square meters. Such trends favor smaller, serene spaces that emphasize restorative aspects, catering to a growing cohort of individuals seeking minimalist yet enriching environments.
While Victorian architecture claims numerous awards, the Australian House of the Year went to Blok Three Sisters, developed by Blok Modular in collaboration with Vokes and Peters. This Queensland project features a trio of coastal terrace houses, ingeniously designed for sisters who cherished childhood holidays at the same site. The prefabricated homes, assembled on North Stradbroke Island, illustrate an innovative approach to construction that prioritizes adaptability and urban density—a prevailing theme within the winning designs. Jury chair Alexa Kempton remarked on the flexibility and long-term planning evident in these homes, which echo a growing commitment to quality living environments that address changing lifestyle needs, effectively challenging traditional norms in residential architecture.
