The 2025 Habitus House of the Year x Winnings shortlist features 26 projects, with four practices competing for the Winnings Award for Emerging Talent. This award recognizes and rewards emerging talent in residential architecture.
Emerging Talent Shortlist
Anthony St John Parsons, Architect George, Lara Maeseele, and SGKS ARCH are the four practices shortlisted for the Winnings Award. Each practice has a unique project that showcases their talent and skill in residential architecture.
Anthony St John Parsons’ project, New Castle, is a fortress-like house that focuses on the private sanctuary within. The project was recently recognized at the AIA’s National Awards and features a unique blend of cultural references and architectural precedents.
Projects and Inspirations
Architect George’s project, House in Erskineville, is a quiet manifesto for adaptability, rejecting the fixed room and prescribed family structure. The design features a notable fireplace and is a rare example of a building that becomes a quiet statement.
Lara Maeseele’s project, Nebraska, is a clean and refined minimalist shell that gently perches between the bush and the sea. The project is a family holiday home that can expand and adapt to accommodate extended loved ones.
SGKS ARCH’s project, Park St, transforms two tired Art Deco flats into a family home. The design draws from the minimalist precision of Tokyo and the exuberance of 1920s Miami, seeking to reinterpret Art Deco language with a contemporary edge.
As the winner of last year’s award, Michael Graham (MEGA), has set a high standard for emerging talent. This year’s shortlist features a diverse range of projects, each with its own unique character and style.
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Selection and Awards
The Winnings Award for Emerging Talent is selected from among the full House of the Year shortlist. The award is part of the boutique awards program, which also includes the House of the Year, Editors’ Choice, and People’s Choice Awards.
The reveal party will take place on December 4th, where the winners of the awards will be announced. The People’s Choice Award is currently open for voting, allowing the public to have a say in the selection of the winner.
In comparison to previous years, this year’s shortlist is the most extensive and internationally varied. The selection process is editorial, rather than competitive, ensuring that each project has already reached an elite level of commendation.
Residential architecture is constantly evolving, with new designers and architects pushing the boundaries of what is possible.
For example, the use of minimalist and adaptive designs, as seen in Architect George’s House in Erskineville, is a trend that is becoming increasingly popular. This approach to design allows for a more flexible and functional use of space, which is particularly important in urban areas.
The 2025 Habitus House of the Year x Winnings shortlist is a showcase of the best emerging talent in residential architecture. With its diverse range of projects and unique designs, it’s an exciting time for the industry.
The winners of the awards will be announced at the reveal party, and it will be interesting to see which projects are recognized for their excellence.
