Bold renovation takes top kitchen award

A kitchen renovation that blends warm timber, bold terrazzo and mid-century charm has been recognised among the region’s best at the 2026 ICM Geelong Cabinetry Awards.

Designed by Fauve By Design, the Ocean Grove project won the Best Kitchen Under $50,000 category, with judges praising its confident material palette, practical design solutions and respect for the home’s original character.

Judge Frank Iaria said the renovation successfully modernised the kitchen while remaining true to the home’s mid-century roots.

“The warm timber cabinetry, black tiled splashback and bold terrazzo-style island create a confident and memorable material palette, while the integrated storage solutions and appliance detailing show a thoughtful approach to functionality,” he said.

The judges also praised a floating timber shelf spanning the kitchen window, which incorporates recessed LED lighting to provide task lighting along the length of the benchtop.

The project was among a record number of entries received for this year’s awards, which celebrate excellence in cabinetry, joinery and interior design across Geelong, the Surf Coast and Bellarine.

Entries were assessed through a blind judging process by an independent panel of industry experts.

Among the other winners was Greer Mayberry Design, which claimed the People’s Choice Award in the over-$50,000 kitchen category.

The judges highlighted the project’s attention to detail and the way its design elements worked together to create a cohesive space.

“The dark timber cabinetry, marble surfaces, brass accents and feature lighting create a rich, moody and highly sophisticated kitchen,” Iaria said.

“The concealed bar and tall joinery wall add depth and functionality, while the vertical ribbed detailing and darker tones give the space a strong architectural quality.

“This kitchen is beautifully executed and memorable.”

In the bathroom category, Torqing Design impressed the judges with a richly layered interior featuring black cabinetry, brass detailing, marble surfaces and a statement freestanding bath.

Judge Christina Elvin said the project had “a strong sense of character, heritage and drama”, with each element contributing to a clear and cohesive design narrative.

Hosted by ICM Geelong, the awards brought together cabinetmakers, designers and suppliers from across the region to celebrate excellence in custom cabinetry and design.