Showcasing incredible transformations across Australia, the winners of the 2025 Home Design: Renovation of the Year Awards have been announced
Home Design magazine recently announced the winners of the Renovation of the Year awards for 2025. This year’s entries showcased incredible transformations across Australia. From small urban spaces to sprawling country retreats, the projects offer plenty of inspiration for your next build.
Overall winner: The Corner Shop
The top prize went The Corner Shop, designed by Kister Architects. This project transformed a derelict shop into a three-level sanctuary. The home maintains its historical character while adding a lush garden courtyard.
Ilana Kister, the architect and homeowner, used glass blocks to replace traditional windows. This change provides privacy while letting natural light fill the interior. Biophilic elements like green roofs and internal screens help bridge the gap between indoor and outdoor living.
Runner-up: The Nest
The runner-up spot was awarded to The Nest. This modern cabin began as a run-down shed used for breeding poultry. Homeowner Cecilia Mazadiego rebuilt the structure using recycled materials and concrete.
The design features a loft with a king-size bed and a cosy ground floor. A fireplace and dining table make the small space feel inviting. It successfully blends country aesthetics with modern living.
Energy efficiency prize: Bayside Accessible Bathroom
Heather Schwarz won the Energy Efficiency category. The project involved redesigning a compact bathroom to make it safer and more functional for her son.
The new space includes underfloor heating and smart toilet technology. Improved airflow and natural ventilation were priorities for the design. The result is a high-performance room that works beautifully for the whole family.
Outdoor prize: Emery cabin
Missy and Matt Emery took home the Best Outdoor Award for their Gold Coast project. They restored an old cabin that had been neglected for years. During the build, a tornado even tore the roof off the structure.
Despite these setbacks, they created a warm home with a new pool. The rainforest-style cabin features slate flooring and exposed beams. It stands as a great example of what you can achieve on a tight budget.
People’s choice: Peppercorn Residences
The public voted Peppercorn Residences by David and Adele Burke as their favourite.
The renovation added luxurious finishes throughout the property. The homeowners also included subtle Celtic influences as a nod to their Irish heritage.
Standout finalists to watch
Several other projects caught the attention of the judges this year:
- The Johnston home: A North Narrabeen project that opened up a dark house to the sun.
- Allibone bathroom: A clever wet room design that fits both a bath and a shower into a small area.
- Illawong: A Casula home that replaced heavy walls with glass to frame stunning views.
- Eckersall family home: A 40-year-old farmhouse in Arthurs Creek turned into a modern haven.
- Briar Hill: A 70-year-old property saved from being a complete knockdown.
- Auburn parade residence: A Victorian home in Hawthorn East with a new light-filled extension.
- Montrose entertainer: A renovation that added massive windows and endless storage.
Stay tuned for our 2026 Renovation of the Year announcement coming soon. Thank you to our sponsors, our winners, our voters and to all those who entered the Awards.
