06/09/2026
2026 HOUSES AWARD JOINT WINNER in Heritage Category for Borland Crossman House 🏆
Jury citation:
“Borland Crossman House demonstrates how adaptation can sustain the heritage significance of a modernist home while supporting contemporary family life. Designed by Kevin Borland in 1976–78, the house remains one of the most intact examples of his mature residential work and an important legacy of this Australian postwar architect. Its dramatic roof form, double-height glazed atrium, internal garden and expressive material palette exemplify the architectural language of Borland’s 1970s work.
Through careful repairs, upgrades and additions, the new works improve environmental performance, resolve longstanding building issues and accommodate contemporary occupation, while retaining, repairing and extending original brickwork, timber linings, parquetry flooring and the celebrated yellow kitchen. The project reflects a deep understanding of Borland’s original design approach. Rather than imposing a contemporary overlay, the intervention reveals and strengthens qualities already present. Thermally upgraded glazing retains the articulation of the iconic atrium facade, while the extension of the curved dining bay accommodates contemporary living within Borland’s original architectural language. The renewal of the rear balcony and adaptive reuse of the former mechanical room as a study reinforce connections to the internal garden.
The jury applauds a project that balances care, restraint and architectural ambition, ensuring this important work of Australian architecture continues to thrive as a lived and evolving home.”
Huge shoutout to the whole WOWOWA team!!!!!!
Photography: Sean Fennessy
Built: The Carbonist Mood Workshop
Landscape: Mark Budge
