Australia’s best homes have been unveiled.

The Housing Industry Association has announced the winners of its HIA Australian Housing Awards.

Partnered by CSR, the awards were unveiled at a ceremony on the final night of the HIA 2026 National Conference on the Gold Coast last weekend.

Taking out the 2026 HIA Australian Home of the Year was Mactech Constructions with its Cloudbreak development.

Perched on one of the Gold Coast’s most exposed coastal sites, the five-level home transforms a challenging cliff edge into a finely tuned vertical residence which represents one half of a duplex.

The home delivers the privacy and permanence of a standalone dwelling. This is achieved through double wall construction, offset entries and carefully managed orientation to ensure true acoustic separation.

A key feature of the design involves a plan which unfolds from the ground both downward and upward.

At the bottom, a basement wellness retreat and cinema are carved directly into the cliff, unexpectedly opening to hinterland views.

Above, bedrooms and a master suite give way to open-plan living before culminating in a rooftop terrace which is complete with pool, spa and helipad.

Each level is linked by a ribbon of glass floor panels These draw daylight deep into the core.

Fixed elements anchor the interiors. These include an in-situ island and dining table finished in microcement.

 

Integrated services, frameless glazing and early landscaping decisions reinforce material continuity.

These deliver a coastal home that feels both robust and precisely resolved.

The home also won the HIA Australian Townhouse of the Year, partnered by Ariston.

HIA Managing Director Jocelyn Martin congratulated the 2026 HIA Australian Housing Awards winners and praised their remarkable achievements.

“HIA is committed to recognising the outstanding achievements and talent amongst our members. The HIA Australian Housing Awards allow us to acknowledge winners for their skill and commitment to quality construction, design and material selection.

“The winning projects redefine what’s possible in terms of innovation; they’re setting new benchmarks for the industry.

“It’s not only outstanding homes we’ve recognised tonight; we’ve also acknowledged remarkable members who are excelling in business management in our Professional Builder Awards, along with our Emerging Builder from Western Australia and our exceptional apprentices.

“It is my absolute pleasure to congratulate each winner for their commitment to excellence.”

The awards are the ultimate platform to showcase the talents of the nation’s top builders and designers. Winners are selected from state-based finalists, with awards in 24 separate categories.

 

Other award winners

All up, awards were given for 24 categories.

A full list of winners can be seen here.

Aside from the Home of the Year, other award winners include those which are set out below.

The HIA Australian Apartment of the Year was taken out by AG Construct for an expansive penthouse apartment in South Yarra that showcases craftsmanship and luxury materials.

Natural stone, dark bronze and light European oak form the base of the palette. These create a sophisticated and stylish effect.

All three bedrooms feature ensuites whilst two private terraces capitalise on the leafy views over the river. The space enjoys ample natural light.

This award is partnered by HIA Insurance Services.

Next, Clover Homes won HIA Australian Specialised Housing for a purpose‑built home that has been designed to foster independence, meaningful engagement and genuine comfort for individuals living with dementia.

With a domestic‑scale layout, the residence provides warmth and familiarity while ensuring residents receive personalised, 24/7 support.

This category is partnered by Merlin Garage Door Openers.

 

Taking out the HIA Kitchen of the Year (partnered by Artusi) was Mactech Constructions.

This kitchen is both a high-performance working space and a sophisticated architectural feature which has been built to endure and designed to elevate everyday living.

Defined by a cantilevered stone island, warm timber veneer and concealed storage, the craftmanship has been delivered exceptionally.

Built for function and durability, it connects seamlessly to the home’s outdoor living areas.

Meanwhile Machtech also took out the HIA Australian Bathroom of the Year, partnered by Caroma.

Defined by natural stone, handmade tiles, and custom joinery, the Finca Talluca master ensuite pairs comfort with sophistication.

Every detail is intentional, from concealed lighting to a seamless circulation and symmetry.

The sculpted stone bath, mirrored dual showers and warm materials throughout showcase a masterclass in quiet refinement.

Next, Craig Linke won HIA Australian Kitchen Design for a beautifully executed kitchen that blends French-inspired elegance with modern functionality.

Judges praised the exceptional craftsmanship and detailing, particularly the circular island bench, which feels like a sculptural piece of furniture.

Continuity between the kitchen, butler’s pantry and laundry creates a cohesive and sophisticated aesthetic. This is enhanced by the use of hand-woven mesh.

This category is partnered by Smeg Australia.

Next, the HIA Australian Outdoor Project was taken out by Coastal Builders for a standout retreat featuring a curved pool, pool house and premium landscaping.

The project blends technical precision with natural elegance, creating a luxury outdoor space that feels effortless and deeply connected to its surroundings.

This category is partnered by Toyota for Business.

Next, the HIA Australian Professional Small Builder / Renovator has been won by NSW Blue Mountains based family-owned builder Blue Eco Homes.

With a commitment to ethical building practices, they’ve earned a reputation for leading the way in construction, specialising in sustainable new builds and renovations.

This category is partnered by Companion Systems.

Finally, Mable Projects won HIA Australian Start-up Business for its dynamic, ethical approach to delivering high-quality construction across rural and regional communities.

With strong leadership, robust systems and a client first culture, the Scone based company has achieved rapid, well-managed growth grounded in purpose, innovation and continuous improvement.

This category is partnered by American Express Australia.

 

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