In the lush subtropical setting of Byron Shire, Myocum Magic has been awarded the Residential Design category prize in the 2025 Lysaght Inspirations Design Awards. Recognised for its climate-responsive design, seamless indoor–outdoor living, and refined detailing, the project impressed judges with its sensitivity to place.
“This project exemplifies what thoughtful residential design can achieve,” said the judging panel. “It is responsive to its climate, deeply connected to its setting, and elevated by beautiful detailing."
A Home Designed for Connection and Climate
Set on the edge of bushland, Myocum Magic draws on tropical modernism and mid-century principles to merge architecture with landscape. Rotated 20 degrees to optimise northern orientation, the extension incorporates passive solar design with a burnished concrete slab for thermal mass, shaded openings, and natural ventilation.
An open-plan living area extends seamlessly to a terrace and pool, with post-free sliding corners and an outdoor bathroom enhancing the subtropical lifestyle. Details such as spotted gum soffits with a subtle “kick,” cantilevered slab corners, and custom concrete-timber steps reinforce structural clarity and crafted simplicity, elevating the extension well beyond the conventional.
Built for Climate and Country
Sustainability is embedded in every aspect of the project:
- 85,000 litres of rainwater storage
- 13.3kW solar PV system
- Thermal mass from burnished concrete floors
- Shaded openings and cross-ventilation pathways.
Importantly, the home also achieves BAL29 bushfire compliance, ensuring resilience in its bushland setting. Together, these features make Myocum Magic both environmentally responsible and robust under Australian conditions.
Recognising Excellence in Residential Design
The Residential Design category celebrates exceptional architecture for private homes, multi-residential projects and renovations or extensions. This year’s winner was commended for balancing contemporary lifestyle needs with environmental performance and enduring aesthetics.
The judging panel praised Myocum Magic for “achieving harmony between form and function while demonstrating how LYSAGHT® steel products can be both practical and visually striking.”
The Role of LYSAGHT ENSEAM® Cladding
A defining element of the project is its use of LYSAGHT® ENSEAM® cladding from the ZENITH® range.
Reflecting on the design process, Brently Reid of EcoSphereDesign said:
“LYSAGHT® ENSEAM® was selected as a durable, lightweight, and low-maintenance cladding that enhanced both the performance and aesthetic goals of the project."
Its role was pivotal in achieving:
- Bushfire resilience: Non-combustible cladding enabling BAL29 compliance in a bushland setting.
- Sustainability: Fully recyclable steel with a long service life, reducing maintenance and replacement.
- Thermal performance: Enhanced efficiency when combined with insulation and passive solar design.
- Design expression: Crisp vertical lines complementing midcentury modern inspiration while contrasting with timber and concrete.
- Practicality: Lightweight construction supporting efficient installation, cost control, and buildability.
Why It Stood Out
Myocum Magic is a model for contemporary Australian residential design. It captures the essence of its setting, creates comfort and connection through design, and integrates sustainability without compromise.
“This is a residence that delivers beauty, functionality and resilience,” said the judges. “It shows how thoughtful detailing and smart material choices can create a home that’s both inviting and enduring.”
Through the Lysaght Inspirations Design Awards, Lysaght proudly celebrates projects like Myocum Magic that advance residential design while demonstrating the enduring value of steel in shaping Australia’s built environment.
