If you’ve ever watched a James Bond film and thought, ‘I wouldn’t mind living in the villain’s lair—minus the henchmen and world domination plans,’ then you’re in for a treat.
But don’t be misled by the ‘villain’s lair’ nickname—this home is designed for real people, with comfort and liveability at its core.
The latest winner of the 2025 HIA-CSR Australian Home of the Year is a bold, black architectural marvel on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast that’s turning heads and challenging conventions.
A home fit for a (stylish) villain
Nestled in the lush Noosa Hinterland, Blackwood is the brainchild of Sarah Waller, a trailblazing architect and builder who’s made her mark in the male-dominated world of construction.
This isn’t just another luxury home—it’s a statement. With its sharp lines, dramatic black timber cladding, and off-form concrete, Blackwood looks like it could be the backdrop for a high-stakes movie showdown.
Sarah Waller’s vision was clear from the start: she wanted to create a ‘glass house’ that stood out from the crowd, a place where boldness and beauty could coexist.
‘I wanted the architecture to be really bold and very striking—the villain’s lair was what we called it because it was all very stealth-like with its sharp points and corners,’ she explains.
‘Black isn’t for everyone, but when you have all that landscape around you, the boldness of the black works really well because it has the space to breathe.’
A masterclass in design and craftsmanship
Set on a sprawling 7,635 sqm parcel, Blackwood is more than just a pretty face. The home’s pavilion-style layout is designed to make the most of its stunning surroundings, with extensive glazing offering sweeping 180-degree views of the Noosa Valley Country Club.
Inside, the monochromatic palette is softened by high-end finishes like Italian oak and terrazzo stone, creating a space that’s both luxurious and inviting.
The judges at the HIA-CSR Australian Housing Awards were full of praise for Blackwood’s ‘meticulous craftsmanship’ and the way it ‘effortlessly blurs the line between inside and out, enhancing both privacy and connection to the landscape.’ The home is set across subtle cascading levels, giving it a sense of flow and harmony with the land.
Designed for modern Australian living
One of the standout features of Blackwood is its focus on multi-generational living. The property includes a fully self-contained studio, perfect for guests or family members who want a bit of independence.
There are multiple alfresco zones, a 21-metre pool for those hot Queensland days, a sunken firepit lounge for cool evenings, and an outdoor kitchen that’s just begging for a summer barbecue.
With five ensuited bedrooms spread across the main house and studio, a five-car garage, and a large shed, there’s plenty of space for everyone—and everything. Whether you’re hosting the grandkids for the weekend or just enjoying a quiet evening by the pool, Blackwood is designed to be both practical and indulgent.
The story behind the lair
Sarah Waller’s journey to creating Blackwood is as inspiring as the home itself. Originally from the UK, she moved to Australia nearly 20 years ago, following in the footsteps of her builder father.
Looking back at ‘The Doonan Glasshouse’
Her previous project, ‘The Doonan Glasshouse’, sold for a cool $4.3 million in 2021, but Blackwood was her chance to push the envelope even further. Building during the post-COVID era wasn’t without its challenge— storms and supply delays meant setbacks were frequent.
But as Sarah puts it, ‘It’s always challenging when you are the architect, the builder and the client because if anything goes wrong, it’s your fault. This home is our dream, but now it’s on the market and we’re going to do another one—I tell my husband it’s like having a baby, you forget about the labour and you just remember all the best bits.’
A home for the future
Blackwood isn’t just a showpiece—it’s a glimpse into the future of Australian home design. It proves that bold choices, when executed with skill and vision, can create spaces that are both striking and supremely liveable.
As agent Paul Arthur puts it, Blackwood is ‘the ultimate resort-style paradise’—a private retreat that’s open and inviting from within, yet shielded from the outside world.
For those who want to see Blackwood in person, it’s set to go under the hammer on May 31. Who knows—the next chapter of this architectural adventure could be yours.
Would you dare to live in a home like this? Do you love the idea of a bold, black ‘villain’s lair’, or do you prefer something a little more traditional? Share your comments below—and if you’ve ever dreamed of designing your own unique home, tell us what your dream lair would look like.
Also read: Do you know your Art Deco from mid-century modern? Your guide to five popular design eras
