The 2026 Houses Awards have unveiled a remarkable shortlist of apartment designs that exemplify intelligent, dynamic, and visually compelling urban living spaces. Jury chair Alexa Kempton emphasized the importance of density done wellnoting that architects are rising to the challenge of creating sustainable and adaptable homes.
In an era where building costs and environmental impacts are significant concerns, the shortlisted projects demonstrate how thoughtful design can address these challenges. From repurposing existing structures to maximizing natural light and airflow, these apartments set a new standard for urban living.
Innovative Use of Space and Materials
One standout project is the Brunswick apartment by Neometro, which transforms what was originally intended as two units into a single, family-friendly apartment. The design features custom joinery that breaks the space into distinct zones without compromising light and air flow, offering a balanced open-plan layout.
The Apartment on the Loop by Billy Maynard Architects showcases a sensitive redesign of a 1930s building in inner Sydney. The project reintroduces art deco heritage elements that were compromised by a previous renovation, improving thermal performance with new windows while reusing existing materials. This approach minimizes demolition and reduces waste, aligning with sustainable design principles.
Adaptability and Future-Proofing
The Darling Point apartment by Corben Architects focuses on maximizing light and airflow to reduce the need for artificial lighting and air conditioning. The use of timber veneer panelling and full-height cabinetry provides functional storage that also serves as a cohesive architectural feature. Durable materials like natural stone and engineered timber ensure longevity and sustainability.
Kieran McInerney’s Egan Compact is a testament to adaptability, converting a 27 sq metre warehouse studio into a family home with 65 sq metres of floorspace. The design leverages the owner’s knowledge of the site’s sunlight, noise levels, and views to create a functional and comfortable living space. This project highlights the potential of small spaces to meet the needs of growing families.
Flexibility and Multifunctional Design
The Esplanade: a Place to Pause by Duo Architects reworks an art deco apartment’s interior into a highly flexible space. Integrated joinery conceals built-in laundry, appliances, and even a bed, allowing the space to be used efficiently for multiple purposes. This design approach maximizes the use of existing housing stock, reducing the need for carbon-intensive knock-down and rebuild projects.
The Existenzminimum by Espinosa Studio is a 30 sq metre art deco studio that has been renovated to increase functionality through clever custom joinery. The project draws from the modernist concept of Existenzminimumaiming to provide the minimum space for a dignified life. The restrained colour palette of white and natural woods keeps the unit calm and inviting.
The Hide and Seek House by Tim Bennetton features a ‘hide and seek’ wall that allows the owners to retreat or come together as needed. This design improves thermal performance by enabling cross ventilation and controlling seasonal light. The internal fitout makes use of the unit’s existing footprint, allowing the owners to remain in place for years without significant alterations.
The Newport apartment by Mima Architects reconfigured a small penthouse apartment into a grander space through extensive negotiations with the local council. The design prioritizes durable materials that can be easily refinished, with an interior palette inspired by the owners’ beloved yacht.
The Northcote Townhouses by Birthisel Wittingslow Architects, Studio Esteta, and Carr demonstrate how three couples can collaboratively redevelop an under-utilised lot into three separate dwellings. The all-electric homes are designed around passive performance, with planted voids to bring daylight deep into each townhouse, alongside shared and private gardens.
