Alex Urena Design Studio wins 2026 TIDA Australia Designer Renovation of the Year

While this property boasted ocean views at the rear, the existing home had some fundamental issues that needed to be addressed

The original exposed red brick home sat at the bottom of a steep slope, with an old, non-compliant concrete bridge the only link down to the house from the unusable garage that sat at street level.

To solve this, the renovation added a new timber-clad garage over the existing slab, maximizing coastal views through strategically placed windows.

Landscaped sandstone steps now lead down from the street to a brand-new steel and timber bridge, arriving at a semi-covered front deck that creates a welcoming entry.

At the rear, an outdated sunroom was replaced with an expanded living area and deck.

Double-height hardwood posts form four distinct structural bays framing both the terrace and new sunroom.

On the front of the sunroom, a recycled hardwood door slides entirely behind a fixed window, while sliding doors also open up both sides of the room, seamlessly blurring the line between indoors and out.

Inside, reconfigured living spaces maximize natural light, sightlines, and flow.

Downstairs now features two refreshed bedrooms, a dedicated study, and an upgraded rumpus room.

The TIDA judges praised this design for transforming a challenging, poorly developed site into a home that realises its full coastal potential.

Congratulations to Alex Urena Design Studio – winner of the 2026 TIDA Australia Designer Renovation of the Year.

Designed by: Alex Urena Design Studio

Story by: Trendsideas