Surry Hills Small Home Bags World Interior of the Year Award

Small Sustainable Surry Hills Home Wins Robin Boyd Award, Surry Hills Small Home Bags World Interior of the Year Award

Surry Hills has reason to rejoice, as SJB’s modest yet extraordinary small home clinches the World Interior of the Year award at the acclaimed World Architecture Festival in Singapore.



Photo Credit: Australian Institute of Architects / Anson Smart

Located at 19 Waterloo Street, this architectural gem, crafted by renowned firm SJB and spearheaded by lead architect Adam Haddow, bagged the World Interior of the Year award and also triumphed in the INSIDE: Residential (single home) category.

Photo Credit: Australian Institute of Architects / Anson Smart

The compact 29-square-meter abode is an architectural marvel that redefines spatial limitations, ingeniously utilising its limited footprint to encapsulate the essence of a larger home while ensuring optimal amenities.

The jury’s praise for 19 Waterloo Street resonates with its creative genius, likening it to “a wardrobe for the architect himself to live in, not only a building or an interior but a pocket-sized tour de force.”

Photo Credit: Australian Institute of Architects / Anson Smart

Architecturally, the residence stands as a testament to innovation, boasting a playful facade reminiscent of Jacques Tati, adorned with recycled and broken bricks that engage artfully with the street through cleverly designed geometric openings.

Sustainability lies at the heart of this architectural wonder, achieving an impressive 90% self-sufficiency in electrical needs through the integration of rooftop PVs and battery storage.

Photo Credit: Australian Institute of Architects / Anson Smart

The interior design intricacies reflect a harmonious blend of drama and tranquillity, with spaces designed to expand and contract, creating serene respites within the home.

Photo Credit: Australian Institute of Architects / Anson Smart

From the bathroom adorned with lush monstera plants, harnessing both steam and natural light, to the study featuring a gold leaf-coated void refracting morning light into a celestial workspace, every corner of 19 Waterloo Street is a testament to thoughtful design and functionality.

Photo Credit: Australian Institute of Architects / Anson Smart

This exceptional achievement not only celebrates the ingenuity of SJB and Adam Haddow, but also underscores Surry Hills’ place in the forefront of architectural innovation and sustainable living on a global stage.



Director Adam Haddow, who calls this innovative space home, expressed his gratitude for the recognition bestowed upon the Surry Hills residence.

Published 13-December-2023