The Sanctuary, designed by Gremmo Homes, is the proud winner of the Special Purpose Housing category at the Master Builders Association of NSW Excellence in Housing Awards 2025/2026.
This thoughtfully designed home combines accessibility, functionality, and style, with every detail carefully considered to create a safe and supportive environment that empowers its residents.
From spacious layouts to practical features, The Sanctuary exemplifies Gremmo Homes’ commitment to delivering high-quality, purpose-built housing with exceptional attention to detail.
The Sanctuary is a beautifully designed Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) home. Thoughtfully crafted as a fully accessible residence, it integrates Robust design and High Physical Support (HPS) features to provide a safe, comfortable, and independent living environment for individuals with disabilities.
During construction, the biggest challenge was creating a level platform over an area of approximately 615m² on a sloping site. This was a priority due to accessibility for residents, which Gremmo Homes achieved.
The site consists of two separate houses that work together to foster a sense of community while maintaining privacy and independence for residents. The design prioritises safety, convenience, and inclusivity, making it an ideal space for individuals seeking a supportive and empowering living environment.
The front house presents a contemporary façade, featuring a mix of green and white linear cladding, which complements the well-landscaped outdoor spaces and provides a wide, step-free entry for easy access. The back house, reflecting this design in navy, maintains a cohesive yet distinct aesthetic. Both houses showcase a pitched Colorbond roof in neutral Southerly, creating an inviting and visually appealing exterior.
Upon entry, residents are greeted by warm Easiplank waterproof floorboards, complemented by Dulux Vivid White walls. Each dwelling follows a distinct yet consistent internal scheme. Communal living areas in the front house encourage social interaction, featuring shared kitchen and lounge spaces where residents can engage in daily activities together. The kitchens are designed with functionality in mind, incorporating accessible benchtops, user-friendly appliances, and ample storage. The green-themed kitchen in the front house exudes a contemporary yet calming aesthetic, while the timber-accented kitchen in the back house radiates warmth and familiarity.
This harmonious design extends through the kitchens and laundries, which share a clean, modern finish that evokes timeless sophistication. Prime Oak custom joinery seamlessly blends with the overall aesthetic.
These intentional design choices prioritise calm and ease, essential elements in SDA housing. The front house facilitates communal living for three residents. Further back, a large HPS and Robust villa includes an individual bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, laundry, storage space, living, and dining areas. The back house has been designed to accommodate five individual villas, offering privacy and independence while also providing a breakout room for socialising.
Going beyond basic accessibility standards, The Sanctuary features specialised design elements that ensure a high level of physical access. High-impact wall linings, laminated glass, secure windows and doors, soundproofing, and dedicated retreat areas — both internally and externally — enhances safety while also supporting the wellbeing of residents. The commitment to inclusivity is evident in thoughtful provisions such as ceiling hoists, wide door openings, and accessible benchtops and appliances. Every measurement and access point is carefully designed to accommodate wheelchair use, ensuring a truly inclusive living environment.
Notably, the main villa features an alfresco area, while each individual villa boasts a courtyard, providing access to a beautifully landscaped backyard.
These thoughtfully crafted elements create a safe, accessible, and aesthetically pleasing haven within The Sanctuary, ensuring the wellbeing and comfort of residents. Meticulous attention to detail throughout the design exemplifies a commitment to inclusivity, independence, and support, making The Sanctuary a truly exceptional living space for individuals with diverse needs.
JUDGES’ COMMENTS: A spacious, contemporary project with carefully executed elements delivering a safe, accessible, and functional environment that provides independence and practical support for residents. The build demonstrates impressive attention to detail.
For more information
GREMMO HOMES
Tel: 9894 1633
Design: The SanctuaryArchitect/designer: Duplex Building Design
Photography: Elevate Photography
