The Housing Industry Association (HIA) judges described a cliffside home built by Lane Group Construction in Tasmania as a “once-in-a-lifetime build.” The home won the 2023 HIA-CSR Australian Home of the Year, the most prestigious residential building award presented by HIA.
The 2023 HIA-CSR Australian Housing Awards winners were revealed on the final night of the HIA 2023 National Conference on Hamilton Island on May 20 during an awards ceremony attended by 550 industry leaders.
Tinderbox by Studio Ilk Architecture + Interiors
The winning single-story home, a Tasmanian retreat named ‘Tinderbox House,’ designed by Studio Ilk Architecture + Interiors, is anchored in a windswept, bushland location with sturdy stone pavilions. An abundance of floor-length glass windows offers a serene atmosphere for the inhabitants and their guests, connecting them to the breathtaking, rugged coastline of the Derwent River.
The 19,000 ft² (approx. 5,800m²) residenc, comprises five pavilions arranged linearly along a seaside hill’s contours. The interior features burnished caramel concrete floors and spotted gum timber cladding, matching the expertly crafted stonework. An indulgent cantilevered indoor/outdoor infinity pool, spa, and sauna contribute to the entertainment appeal of the house.
Hand-laid stones complement caramel-coloured polished concrete, timber floors, and large amounts of spotted-gum timber cladding. The wood, used extensively for storage, built-in furniture, doors, and cladding, is fire-resistant – an important consideration given the site’s significant bushfire risk.
The home also won the HIA Australian Custom Built Home award, partnered with ActronAir.
Speaking about the awards, HIA’s Managing Director, Graham Wolfe, stated, “HIA is committed to recognising the outstanding achievements of our members. The HIA-CSR Australian Housing Awards allow us to acknowledge their skill and their commitment to quality in design, material selection, and construction. Our Awards’ program brings together members who excel in building exceptional homes, kitchens and bathrooms, and run highly successful businesses.”
He added, “HIA Award winners build with exceptional workmanship; demonstrated in projects that push the boundaries in design and innovation. It is my absolute pleasure to congratulate each winner for their hard work and commitment to excellence.”
For a full list of the winners across more than 20 categories, visit the HIA dedicated award page.