The 2026 HIA Gold Coast and Northern Rivers Housing Awards delivered a remarkable result for Metricon, with the Catalina 64 securing a triple win led by the Display Home of the Year title. Located in Surfers Paradise, the display home also won Best Display Home Over $1 Million, while taking out one of the evening’s most meaningful honours: the People’s Choice Home award, voted by the public.
Winning both the professional industry categories and the public vote represents a significant achievement for the builder. The public vote demonstrates that the Catalina 64 does more than impress industry judges; it inspires and resonates with the people who may one day call a Metricon home their own. These latest accolades build on earlier success at the 2026 Master Builders Queensland Gold Coast Housing and Construction Awards, where the residence was named Best Display Home.
Architectural Detail and Practical Living
Bringing together contemporary Australian living with timeless European-inspired design, the Catalina 64 is distinguished by sculptural arches, intricate facade detailing and a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The design was planned not simply to make an impression, but to make everyday life feel easier, more comfortable and more connected.
Spread across two expansive levels, the five-bedroom, five-bathroom home features three separate living areas, including a generous open-plan living zone. Soaring ceilings and abundant natural light fill the interior spaces, while thoughtful zoning establishes an intuitive flow between shared and private spaces. A luxurious entertainer’s kitchen anchors the central living area, accompanied by a resort-inspired outdoor room designed to support everyday family life and social gatherings. Together, these features create a home that feels grand while remaining warm, welcoming and highly liveable.
“To be recognised by our industry is an outstanding achievement, but to also be chosen by the public makes this win especially rewarding,” said Metricon Design Director Adrian Popple. “It tells us that the Catalina has connected with people not only as a beautiful display home, but as a place in which they can genuinely imagine themselves living.”
Design That Elevates Daily Living
The awards recognise a home that combines exceptional architecture and interior design with the functionality, comfort and sense of connection that modern buyers value. Every element of the floorplan balances visual elegance with practical utility, ensuring both expansive entertaining zones and private family retreats function effortlessly.
“Great home design is ultimately about how people feel and live within a space,” said Adrian. “Every element of the Catalina has been considered to balance beauty with function and give families a home that elevates everyday living. This recognition also reflects the important role design plays across Metricon and the leadership our team continues to bring to the wider housing industry.”
Adrian also acknowledged the wider team involved in bringing the Catalina to life, congratulating the company’s trades and business partners. By pairing European architectural influences with the practical realities of Queensland living, Metricon has delivered a design that earns the respect of industry peers and inspires future homeowners alike.
