recent AWARDs and recognition

Villar Architect is proud to have received industry recognition for projects that demonstrate design excellence, environmental responsibility and enduring liveability. This includes formal recognition by the Australian Institute of Architects, as well as project awards led by building partner - Blue Eco Homes - for homes designed by Villar Architect, reflecting the strength of collaborative practice.


2025 HIA GreenSmart Awards

GreenSmart Home – Gallery House Blackheath
This highly sustainable home was recognised at both state and national level for its exceptional environmental performance, design resolution and build quality.
Award Recipient: Blue Eco Homes
  • Winner – Housing Industry Association 2025 Australian GreenSmart Home Award
  • Winner – Housing Industry Association 2025 NSW GreenSmart Home Award
  • Finalist – Housing Industry Association 2025 Custom Built Home
The project achieved an outstanding level of energy efficiency through rigorous thermal modelling, renewable energy integration and a carefully detailed building envelope. While meeting demanding performance standards, the home remains warm, calm and deeply liveable — reflecting Villar Architect’s commitment to sustainable design that enhances everyday life.

In recognition of this achievement, Diego Villar, of Villar Architect, has been nominated for a Sustainable Architecture award for the Regional Architecture Awards 2026.


Australian Institute of Architects Awards

Art House – Sunnyside Wentworth Falls
  • Commendation – Interior Architecture Award
  • NSW Country Division Architecture Awards
  • Australian Institute of Architects (2020)

This project was recognised for its refined interior architecture and the seamless integration of contemporary design within a sensitive heritage and landscape context. The jury acknowledged the clarity of spatial planning, restrained material palette and strong relationship between interior spaces, light and garden.


2023 HIA GreenSmart Awards

GreenSmart Home – Yellow Rock Passivhaus
The 2023 HIA Australian GreenSmart Home awards were won by Blue Mountains building company Blue Eco Homes for this exceptional, energy-efficient home. The project was designed by Diego Villar, Villar Architect, and is fully accessible, multi-generational in design, and constructed to a BAL-40 rating.
  • Winner – Housing Industry Association 2023 Australian GreenSmart Custom Built Home
  • Winner – Housing Industry Association 2023 Australian GreenSmart Home of the Year
  • Highly Commended – Energy Efficiency



Awards are a valued acknowledgement of careful design, collaboration and environmental responsibility.
Every project, awarded or not, is approached with the same care and intent.