ELLYETT Architecture and Interior Design has been shortlisted for the 2026 Australian Interior Design Awards for its stunning work on Arrawarra Beach House.
Founded in 2004, the peer-reviewed awards celebrate excellence across residential, commercial, and public interior design sectors.
Any Australian business can enter categories spanning retail, hospitality, public, and workplace design, along with residential design and decoration.
Recent local awardees include Yarrila Place in Coffs Harbour (a collaboration between BVN, Yandaarra Aboriginal Advisory Committee and others), which received a commendation in the Public Design category in 2025.
Judge’s comments on the Residential entries in this year’s awards emphasised the focus on function-first, authentic designs featuring strong, personalised narratives and a deeply considered approach.
“Arrawarra Beach House is a disciplined coastal retreat shaped by contrast,” the official design statement notes.
“Responding directly to site, climate and use, the interior turns inward – employing tonal depth, tactile materials and controlled light to moderate exposure and prioritise calm, longevity and wellbeing.”
Senior Associate and Head of Interior Design, Louise Willey, was the lead designer on the project.
“One of the most rewarding aspects of [Arrawarra Beach House] was the opportunity to approach the beach house a little differently, creating a home that feels calm, grounded and protective within a very exposed coastal setting,” Ms Willey said..
“We had fun designing custom solutions throughout the project, ensuring every element worked together to shape the atmosphere of the home. From the integrated lighting to the bespoke joinery and material selections, there was a strong focus on longevity, comfort and how the spaces would feel to live in over time.
“The end result feels warm, durable and deeply connected to its surroundings. This was brought to life through rigorous commitment to the design by the client and builder.”
Ms Willey added that sustainability was also a key consideration.
“Passive design principles, durable materials and low-maintenance finishes were used to support long-term performance and comfort within the coastal environment,” she said.
Collaborators on the project included Josh Torney from JTech (builder) and Reece Keil Designs (building design).
All major category winners, commendations, and the ultimate Premier Award for Australian Interior Design are presented live on stage at the gala event on 12 June.
By Jessica MILLER
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