Best Use of Material in a Residential
Project Finalists
The Grande - Geocon Constructors
The Grande is a high-profile residential development in Canberra City delivered by Geocon Constructors (ACT), showcasing extensive use of terracotta cladding across three towers. The material was custom designed and engineered to create a natural, textural façade that
unifies podium, columns and slab edges while meeting demanding structural and durability requirements. Its precise execution elevates the building’s visual presence and demonstrates how terracotta can function as a contemporary, high-performance residential façade material within an urban setting.
The MENZIES - Preferred Builder & DNA Architects
The Menzies is a boutique residential development in Curtin delivered by Preferred Builder in collaboration with DNA Architects, demonstrating an exceptional use of brick as a defining architectural element. Blonde hit-and-miss brickwork, layered with steel, mesh screening and high-performance envelope systems, creates texture, depth and
environmental performance while referencing Canberra’s mid-century heritage.
The project shows how traditional brick can be innovatively detailed to deliver contemporary, durable and contextually responsive housing.
Harry Hopman - Quality Built Co
This residential project in Gordon was delivered by Quality Built Co and showcases an outstanding and highly innovative use of natural stone within a single bathroom. Breccia Versillia marble was pushed beyond conventional applications through a carved integrated
basin, curved shower niche and a backlit stone feature, all vein-matched for cohesion. The project demonstrates exceptional craftsmanship and coordination, redefining what natural stone can achieve in a residential setting.
Turner - Simplicity Kitchens
This residence in Turner was delivered by Simplicity Kitchens and exemplifies best practice in the use of timber veneer as an architectural material rather than a surface treatment. Veneer joinery is used as a continuous spatial framework, shaping circulation, concealing services and delivering warmth, precision and longevity throughout the home. Through meticulous detailing and fabrication, the project demonstrates how
sustainable timber veneer can elevate residential interiors into a cohesive and
enduring architectural expression.