THE 2025 Victorian Architecture Awards have announced their winners, highlighting outstanding architectural projects in Melbourne and regional Victoria. Celebrating excellence in collaboration, sustainability, and innovation, the awards underscore architecture's role in shaping vibrant communities.
These awards serve as recognition for the innovative efforts of the Institute’s members, promoting the appreciation of architecture across Victoria and Australia.
One notable entry is the commendation for Fishharven in the Residential Architecture – Houses (New) category. Designed by Neil Architecture, Fishharven is a private retreat located on the hilltop of rural Fish Creek, overlooking Wilsons Promontory and Corner Inlet.
Studio director Will Phung said, “This recognition is incredibly meaningful to the team. “It affirms the depth of commitment and collaboration that went into bringing Fishharven to life, from early concept design through to completion. Awards like this celebrate not only the finished building but the collective effort of architects, consultants, builders, and the client, all working toward a shared vision. It’s an honour to be acknowledged by our peers for a project we feel so strongly about.”
The project features three steel-pitched roof pavilions, each with a unique sculptural form, connected by a flat, glazed section. Inspired by farm vernacular, the design balances a robust exterior with a warm, refined interior, creating a durable and inviting home.
Nestled on a gentle slope within a prescribed building envelope, the house maximises views and provides sheltered outdoor spaces. A freestanding garage echoes farm vernacular and completes the built cluster in the landscape.
Fishharven embodies the core values celebrated by the awards, particularly collaboration, sustainability, and innovation in every aspect of its development.
“Collaboration was central—our close working relationship with the client, consultants, and craftsmen shaped every decision,” said Will.
“Sustainability was a key focus, with four water tanks (90,000 litres total) for rainwater harvesting and an aerated wastewater treatment system with two 15-meter wick trenches for on-site waste management. By specifying durable, responsibly sourced materials, the design ensures longevity while remaining environmentally conscious.
“The innovative aspects of this project lie in its seamless integration of natural materials, restrained yet sophisticated detailing, and its deep connection to the surrounding environment. The design reinterprets traditional rural materials in a refined and contemporary way, demonstrating a nuanced approach to regional interior architecture.
Material selection reflects an innovative balance between durability and aesthetic appeal. The use of locally sourced quarry stone in exposed aggregate flooring creates a neutral yet visually engaging surface that interacts with light, while waterproof render in the bathroom enhances luminosity and reinforces a minimalist, sculptural quality.
“Ultimately, this project innovates by refining and elevating humble materials, using them in unexpected yet contextually relevant ways. It embraces simplicity, texture, and craftsmanship to create a space that is both deeply connected to its environment and inherently warm, intimate, and timeless.”
The project team includes Design Architect David Neil, and Graduate of Architecture
Matthew Breen, the project consultant and the construction team consisted of Structplan, Structural Engineer, Acre, Landscape Consultant, and Interior Designer, Nicole Bell.
“The design was inspired by the surrounding landscape—its isolation, its wild beauty, and its agricultural history. We drew from the language of rural sheds and farm buildings, reinterpreting them in a more refined and expressive architectural form. Internally, we contrasted the robust exterior with crafted interiors that feel warm and intimate. The house is designed as a place of retreat—both physically and mentally—a place to connect deeply with nature, but with a sense of comfort and quiet sophistication.”