Inside Queensland’s best home: Horseshoe house wins top prize
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A horseshoe-shaped architectural marvel nestled in the Sunshine Coast hinterland has been awarded the prestigious title of Queensland’s best house for 2025. The residence, aptly named ‘Horseshoe Hill’, is located on a steep rural site in Bald Knob and has captured the attention of the architectural world, taking home the coveted Colorbond House of the Year at the 2025 Master Builders Queensland Housing & Construction Awards.
Designed by Joe Adsett Architects and brought to life by Jager Build, ‘Horseshoe Hill’ has been praised for its innovative design and construction. The judges commended the builders for their “exceptional level of technical expertise and precision” in executing the uniquely curved structure. This praise extends to the meticulous integration of concrete, recessed lighting, wood, and stone, which together create a seamless and sophisticated aesthetic.
The home’s standout features include a striking double-height living area centred around a dramatic stone fireplace, an infinity pool, and a series of stepped terraces that elegantly blend with the natural landscape. The property also secured the award for best Individual Home over $10 million, further cementing its status as a standout in the field of luxury residences.
Jager Build’s success at the awards was mirrored by another standout project, ‘Illalangi’, which was developed by the Innovative Design and Build Group. This Gold Coast hinterland retreat received the BUSSQ Building Super President’s Award. Fully off-grid and self-sustaining, ‘Illalangi’ is designed to maximise its panoramic 360-degree views of the Scenic Rim region. The team was lauded for their meticulous attention to detail in creating a sustainable, single-storey sanctuary that harmonises with its natural surroundings.
The awards night was a showcase of Queensland’s finest in construction and design, with Multiplex Constructions Qld earning the Xact Accounting Project of the Year Award for the Queen’s Wharf Integrated Resort Development on the Brisbane River. The project also won the best Tourism and Leisure Facilities over $10 million. One judge remarked, “The Multiplex team delivered an iconic build that reminds me what is possible when we don’t listen to the voice in our heads telling us; ‘It’s not possible, you can’t do that’.”
Hutchinson Builders also made a significant impact, taking home four awards. These included best Retail Facilities up to $5 million for Hungry Jacks Gracemere, Residential Building (high-rise over three storeys) up to $20 million for Marella Residences, best Community Accommodation for The Verge Stage 3, and Commercial Refurbishment/Renovation over $30 million for Venue.
The award for Best Residential Swimming Pool was claimed by O’Shea & Sons Builders for their work on ‘Kamares sto Appia’, a luxurious Mediterranean-style home situated in the Brisbane suburb of Seven Hills. The pool, a centrepiece of the property, was recognised for its design excellence and integration with the home’s overall aesthetic.
Master Builders Deputy CEO Sue-Ann Fresneda expressed admiration for the calibre of entries in this year’s awards. “This year’s entries pushed boundaries in every direction,” Ms Fresneda said. “From coastal marvels to rural retreats, our members continue to prove that no terrain is too tough when you’ve got vision, skill and a commitment to excellence.”
The 2025 Master Builders Queensland Housing & Construction Awards have once again highlighted the exceptional talent and innovation present in Queensland’s building industry. Each winner and finalist exemplifies the dedication to quality and creativity that continues to drive the sector forward, setting new benchmarks for what can be achieved in residential and commercial construction.