Sunshine Coast's River House wins big at inaugural National Building Design Awards

Gerard Smith Design took home three awards at the first ever National Building Design Awards last week.

River House, in the Sunshine Coast, won  National Building Design of the Year, Best Residential Interior Design and Best New Residential Design for homes with a construction cost over $1 million.

According to Smith, the house's natural surroundings were a central focus of the home's design.

"Our objective was to incorporate natural products and complement the natural landscaping on the exterior of the home, which formed the inspiration for the palette of materials and colours used throughout the interior," said Smith.

The house's interiors feature polished concrete, natural stone tiles, hardwood timbers and wool carpet.

"We used these materials in the joinery to work in harmony with the other natural materials in the home and with the natural environment," he said.

The home's design takes full advantage of its waterfront position, with water views available through the living space upon entry. The open living space offers views to the pool, landscaped courtyard or river from every position.

On the upper level there is an expansive master bedroom, complete with walk-in-robe, concealed kitchenette and parents' retreat area.

The ensuite includes a raised bath overlooking the water, while a wraparound balcony also delivers river views.

The the merits of entries in the National Building Design Awards were considered in terms sustainability, success as a design solution, relationship of internal and external spaces, utility, quality and balance of internal and external aesthetics.

Grand Designs host Kevin McCloud, who presented the awards, called River House "a delightful and triumphant design".