Red Hill House and Studio by Zuzana & Nicholas.

Hold onto your hats, because Red Hill House and Studio is about to blow your mind with its ingenious approach to residential architecture that’s as humble as it is powerful. (And if it doesn’t, well—I don’t know what to tell you, perhaps we should take a little break?)

This gem of a home in Brisbane is turning heads by doing less—and achieving so much more in the process. Instead of going big, the architect-owners Zuzana & Nicholas have worked their magic within the existing footprint of a worker’s cottage, creating a space that’s perfect for both family life and running their architecture studio. Talk about killing two birds with one stone.

What’s so special about this place, you ask? Well, for starters, it’s a masterclass in thoughtful design. They’ve kept the intimate scale of the original rooms (no open-plan madness here) but added clever openings for connection and supervision. And that loose-fit room open to both the garden and the street? It lets the house engage with the neighbourhood while still keeping things private.

Australia's Most Exceptional Homes Revealed at Houses Awards 2024.

At this year's Houses Awards, Australian architects are proving that good design isn't just about aesthetics—it's about creating spaces that enhance our lives, connect us to our communities, and tread lightly on the planet.

By staying within the existing footprint and finding ways for private space to engage with the community, Zuzana & Nicholas have created a home that’s both deeply personal and wonderfully connected. It’s a delicate dance, but Red Hill House and Studio nails it with grace and style.

What’s more, this project is proof that sometimes, doing less can actually achieve so much more. No wonder it snagged the 2024 Australian House of the Year title at the Houses Awards—it’s redefining what home can be in the most understated yet exquisite way possible.

Blurred Edges: Aru House in Newcastle by Curious Practice.

Named after the Awabakal word for insect, Aru House places value on reuse and repair. This relatively modest home punches well above its budget and scale while contributing to the surrounding neighbourhood.

[Photography by Clinton Weaver.]