Image Credit: King Living Furniture and HIA
Four South Australian builders have taken centre stage at the 2025 HIA–CSR Australian Housing Awards, held in Melbourne on May 17.
From sculptural kitchens to sustainable living spaces, each award-winning project reflects a growing national appetite for residential design that is both considered and quietly ambitious.
The annual awards, regarded as one of the highest accolades in the Australian building industry, recognise excellence in design, construction and innovation. With thousands of entries from across the country, South Australia’s strong showing signals the state’s rising influence in shaping modern Australian homes.
Build Theory received Australian Kitchen of the Year for a space that merges everyday functionality with material richness. Warm timber tones, refined stone finishes and a calm, organic palette give the kitchen a quiet elegance.
The layout maximises flow and usability, with judges commending its “timeless appeal” and sculptural simplicity. The award was supported by Italian appliance brand Fulgor.
Tanik Design was awarded Australian Bathroom Design for a compact yet striking space that transforms a challenging floorplan into a refined architectural experience.
Fluted mosaic tiles curve along the walls, anchored by stone vanities and arched steel-framed mirrors. The result is a bold but balanced expression of small-scale luxury—an approach judges lauded for its spatial intelligence and detail. The category was partnered by Caroma.
In the only category voted on by the public, Adelaide Green Homes took out the People’s Choice Home Award for a sustainable family residence that doesn’t compromise on design.
Highlights include a sculptural staircase that sweeps into a sunken lounge, coupled with energy-efficient features and textural finishes. It’s a thoughtful response to the increasing demand for homes that are as responsible as they are beautiful.
Also recognised was Kieran Flanigan, founder of CREW BUILT, who was named Emerging Builder of the Year. Since launching his business in 2021, Flanigan has navigated the post-pandemic market with clarity and confidence. His work in bespoke residential construction is marked by a strong client focus and a commitment to quality—hallmarks of a new generation of builders reshaping the industry.
The evening’s top accolade, Australian Home of the Year, was awarded to Queensland’s Sarah Waller Building for a pavilion-style residence that blends raw off-form concrete and black timber cladding with a minimalist, monochrome interior.
It’s a masterclass in restraint, an architectural statement that feels equally luxurious and livable.
“These are projects that don’t just reflect current trends—they help define them,” said HIA Managing Director Jocelyn Martin.
“The calibre of this year’s winners shows just how far Australian residential design continues to evolve.”
For the full list of winners, click here.
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