Australian Home of the Year 2026 and the Homes Behind the Award

Australian Home of the Year is one of the most searched and closely watched titles in Australian residential design, recognising homes that combine architectural ambition, construction excellence, innovation and liveability. In 2026, the HIA Australian Home of the Year was awarded to Cloudbreak by Mactech Constructions, a five-level Gold Coast residence that transforms a challenging coastal site into one of the country’s most technically impressive luxury homes. The previous 2025 title was awarded to Blackwood by Sarah Waller Architecture, a Noosa Valley residence previously featured by Custom Homes Australia.

Australian Home of the Year Quick Facts

Designed to capture the essence of its location, the minimalist architecture features an exterior of off-form concrete walls and black timber cladding that from the streetside create a sense of privacy and intrigue. On the opposite side, expansive walls of glass and an L shaped design of two pavilions connected by a glass walkway ensure every room is.

Clean lines and sophisticated palette of stark white and matte black creates a bold contrast, while the paired back interior ensures that nothing detracts from the surrounding scenery.

With five bedrooms, five bathrooms, a powder room, and a five-car garage, Blackwood is both spacious and thoughtfully designed and has been beautifully finished with high quality fittings and fixtures. In the bedrooms, luxurious black timber flooring from Mardegan Legno, contrasts to the white terrazzo tiling found through the majority of the home. In the kitchen high end black appliances are almost invisible amongst the walls of black cabinetry. The home also features three fireplaces including a streamlined Jetmaster fireplace in the living room, and a suspended fireplace on the outdoor deck from BBQ and Fireplace centre.

Sarah Waller’s approach to this project emphasizes clean lines and innovative use of materials to create a deep connection to the environment. Blackwood is not just a home but a tranquil retreat that offers a perfect balance of luxury and natural beauty, all within close proximity to the vibrant Noosa lifestyle.

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