Baber Studio has won the House of the Year title for the Inala Infill Apartments, a mass timber social housing project that provides 14 sustainable homes within the Greater Brisbane community.
The Australian Institute of Architects revealed the winners of the Greater Brisbane Architecture Awards this month. The ceremony celebrated projects that improve the way people live and work in the city. Along with the residential win in Inala, the University of Queensland also took home the highest overall prize.
Their new facility for plant research, known as the Plant Futures Facility, received the prestigious John Dalton Award for Building of the Year. Both projects were recognised for their focus on the environment and clever use of materials.
The project in Inala stands out because of its focus on community well-being and natural materials. Built as a low-rise complex, the development uses cross-laminated timber instead of traditional concrete. This choice helped the environment by saving roughly 170 tonnes of carbon from being released.
The design includes 14 homes that feel like a natural part of the neighbourhood. Residents have access to private gardens and walkways designed for everyone to use, including those with mobility needs. The layout also helps fresh air flow through the buildings, reducing the need for artificial cooling.
The Building of the Year winner at the University of Queensland also shares a commitment to a greener future. The Plant Futures Facility was created by M3 Architecture to help scientists study how plants can survive in a changing climate.
The building features unique brickwork that looks like layers of soil, changing from dark to light as the walls go up. On the roof, glasshouses allow the public to see the science happening inside. This facility is now a key part of the university’s work toward sustainable food and fuel production.
Many other local buildings were mentioned for their quality and design. Projects like the new Brisbane Metro and several local primary schools were also praised for helping the city grow in a smart way.
All the winners and commended projects from the Brisbane event will now move forward to a larger competition. The Queensland Architecture Awards will be held at Brisbane City Hall on 26 June. This upcoming event will decide which designs from across the entire state are the best for 2026.
Published Date 12-May-2026
