The Yarralumla Oliver House

Project Description

The Oliver Residence in Yarralumla is a modern, award-winning home that has achieved a rare double accolade—winning the House of the Year at the 2017 Master Builders Excellence in Building Awards, following its previous win at the Housing Industry Association House of the Year Award. Developed through a close collaboration between Preferred Builders and DNA Architects over a challenging four-year process, the project highlights how a unified vision among architect, builder, and client can yield an innovative, contemporary masterpiece that both meets high construction standards and delights its owners.

Spanning 440 square metres with a 6-star energy rating, the home boasts an open-plan design featuring a private upstairs master suite, three spacious bedrooms, and a striking use of natural stone and timber throughout its interiors and exteriors. Unique outdoor touches—such as a life-size chessboard and a dedicated feature barbecue—complement practical amenities like a super-sized garage designed to accommodate car hoists. Energy-efficient details, including double glazing and foam cladding for enhanced insulation, were carefully integrated while ensuring that the two-storey structure remains sympathetic to the local streetscape through thoughtful design choices like retaining original trees and maintaining a low profile.

Architect: DNA Architects

Awards

2017 MBA (ACT Southern NSW) – Winner – Custom Built Home over 350m²
2017 MBA (ACT Southern NSW) – Winner – Home of the Year
2017 Master Builders Association (National) – Custom Built Home $1M – $2M
2016 Housing Industry Association (ACT Southern NSW) – Home of the Year
2016 Housing Industry Association (ACT Southern NSW) – Custom Built Home of the Year
2016 Housing Industry Association (ACT Southern NSW) – Custom Built Home of the Year over $1.2M
2016 Housing Industry Association (ACT Southern NSW) – Kitchen of the Year
2016 Housing Industry Association (ACT Southern NSW) – New Kitchen over $30K