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Revealed: Judges give record score for Australia’s best outdoor project

Sophie Foster

Sophie Foster

The Courier-Mail

A tropical backyard renovation has floored judges at this year’s housing industry awards who crowned it Australia’s best outdoor project after giving it a record score.

North Queensland firm Liam Gilligan Builders efforts on a tropical backyard blitzed every property that has ever entered the outdoor project category at the national Housing Industry Association awards.

They received the highest score ever granted in the category for the HIA Australian Outdoor Project award, partnered by Toyota for Business.

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North Queensland firm Liam Gilligan Builders won the 2024 HIA Australian Outdoor Project award partnered by Toyota for Business for this property. Picture: Liam Gilligan Builders


Great care was taken to build privacy from neighbours into the backyard. Picture: Liam Gilligan Builders


“The space wowed our judges, receiving the highest-ever score for an outdoor project – the workmanship and design effectiveness described as flawless,” a HIA statement said after the award ceremony.

“Despite the challenge of building the pool first, it sits as the focal point, harmoniously conforming to its surroundings. The statement off-form concrete walls and seats overlook the lush gardens, creating an inviting place of tranquil contemplation.”

Both the master and the living zone have good access to the pool. Picture: Liam Gilligan Builders


A shower area was built in, open but still offering privacy. Picture: Liam Gilligan Builders


Liam Gilligan Builders, a family owned and operated business servicing Far North Queensland, offers homeowners a concept to completion service with in-house building design and drafting as well as interior design and styling expertise.

“Husband and wife team, Liam and Hyaesil believe in a hands-on approach which ensures an exemplary standard of workmanship and detail in every build,” HIA said.

The winning outdoor project was built to be like a private resort, blending tropical living with refined Mediterranean influences.

The judges loved the workmanship around the project. Picture: Liam Gilligan Builders


The builders offer to take the project from concept to completion. Picture: Liam Gilligan Builders


“Every inch has been maximised with great intention, including the privacy from neighbouring properties.”

The Far North Queensland builders took out the Australian Outdoor Project category ahead of an array of outstanding finalists – Blag Homes, Contemporary Landscaping, Delaney & Co and Clever Design, Evolve Co Architectural Builders, Giorgi, Gremmo Homes, Pichelmann Custom Building and ACT Landscape Construction, S & R Building & Construction, and Seymour Building Services.

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