Sunshine Coast’s residential masterpiece takes the spotlight at Sunshine Coast Regional Architecture Awards
Ridgewood House, by Robinson Architects, has been awarded the Gabriel Poole Award for Building of the Year at the 2022 Australian Institute of Architects’ Regional Architecture Awards for the Sunshine Coast. The Noosa hinterland home also received a regional commendation in the Residential Architecture – New category. The impressive residence is comprised of two linked parallel wings nestled amongst lush rainforest surroundings.
Judges praised the architects’ responsiveness to the subtropical site. “This project draws you deep into the experience of place with a refreshing inventiveness that epitomises the Sunshine Coast.” Striking tapered eaves hang over the home’s periphery, allowing fresh breezes to travel through the entire structure. An existing shed is converted into a studio workspace and a tool/machinery shed is contemporarily clad in galvanised iron. A plunge pool, small ceramics studio and floor-to-ceiling windows with green vistas are some of the more distinguishing features of the home.
The homeowners said the design accentuates the surrounding natural environment. “As the light changes during the day, the house mellows with the sun’s warmth,” they said. “Our favourite spot is sitting on the deck enjoying the sunshine or listening to rain on the roof.”
Sunshine Coast Regional Commendations:
Witta Circle by Shaun Lockyer was awarded a commendation in the Residential – New category. The C-shaped family home opens up to the banks of the Noosa river, featuring a subterranean living room that is illuminated by light from a sunken pool.
An ambitious 20-year master plan for Montessori International College received a commendation in the Urban Design category. The plan prioritised a learning environment with thriving biodiversity and land rehabilitation at the heart. Jurors noted that the design “demonstrates an enduring ecological legacy for future incremental growth of this living laboratory”.
Other Sunshine Coast regional commendation winners are as follows:
- Commendation (Residential Alterations & Additions) – Noosa Heads House by Vokes and Peters
- Commendation (Educational) – USC Foundation House by Hassell
- Commendation (Residential New) – Mt Mellum House by Sparks Architects
- Commendation (Residential Alterations & Additions) – Bath House by Kelly Martin Architecture
- Commendation (Commercial) – Noosa Car Spa by Andrew Bock Architecture
- Commendation (Sustainability) – Australis by Sealand
All of the region’s awarded projects have now been shortlisted for the Australian Institute of Architects’ Queensland Architecture Awards. The state awards will be judged and awarded in June 2022.
