Featured in Boulevard Magazine: March 2024 edition.
In the realm of prestigious housing accolades, none shine brighter than the esteemed HAVAN Awards for Housing Excellence, presented by FortisBC with Patron Sponsor BC Housing. Celebrating its 15th year, this year’s finalists were unveiled on March 15th amidst the ambiance of The Gallery Also at the Kent. The event, a sell-out affair, drew over 200 eager awards entrants and distinguished guests, all tantalized by the prospect of seeing their names among the illustrious 154 finalists vying for top honours across 60 coveted categories.
From a pool of 455 entries, a record-breaking number, the finalists emerged after rigorous evaluation by an impartial panel of industry expert peers from across Canada. Judged against a meticulous set of criteria tailored to each category, only the top four submissions in each group earned the prestigious finalist status. Notably, the Grand HAVAN Awards incorporate additional criteria, including entrants’ business practices, weighed to ensure the utmost standards of excellence.
Representing the crème de la crème of Metro Vancouver’s home construction and design, submissions by member builders, renovators, and designers embody the pinnacle of craftsmanship and innovation. Each finalist project epitomizes meticulous planning, visionary design, and flawless execution, all while managing client expectations. Moreover, they set the benchmark for cutting-edge trends, incorporating the latest advancements in high-performance building solutions and industry-leading technologies.
California Dream: by Upward Construction with Sarah Gallop Design Inc | Photo Credit: IShot
Amidst high demand for housing in Metro Vancouver, these awards stand as a testament to the city’s global recognition for architectural prowess and industry-leading building science. As Vancouver continues to position itself as a beacon of sustainable living, the finalists showcase innovative approaches to lighten the construction industry’s footprint, setting a new standard for eco-conscious design and development.
As the housing landscape evolves, so too do the awards, introducing new categories such as ‘Best Multiplex Development’ and ‘Best New Small-Scale Home,’ reflecting emerging trends. In a nod to evolving housing policies and design paradigms, the awards continually adapt, embracing concepts such as infill development and energy-solution initiatives.
Forest Courtyard: by Christen Luxury Homes Ltd. with ZED Studio | Photo Credit: 360HomeTours.ca
However, it is within the custom-built home categories that true luxury reigns supreme. Exemplifying the epitome of opulence, these residences boast sprawling living spaces, state-of-the-art kitchens, indulgent spas, and entertainment rooms, plus outdoor retreats reminiscent of a five-star resort.
‘Mr Right’ Builder: Homes by Valentino Photo Credit: The Partners Real Estate
The four finalists in the category Best Custom Home: $3 Million and Over include ‘Luxury Farmhouse’ by Alair Vancouver with ZED Studio and Madeleine Design Group Inc; ‘Forest Courtyard’ by Christen Luxury Homes Ltd. with ZED Studio, ‘California Dream’ by Upward Construction with Sarah Gallop Design Inc and ‘Mr Right’ by Homes by Valentino.
In essence, the HAVAN Awards offer a glimpse into the pinnacle of residential design and construction. As the industry evolves and innovates, these awards stand as a testament to the enduring spirit of creativity and excellence that defines the region’s housing landscape.
The HAVAN Awards not only celebrate exceptional craftsmanship but also serve as a beacon for those seeking to embark on their own homeownership journey. By connecting homeowners with seasoned professionals, the awards empower individuals to transform their dreams into reality, safe in the knowledge that they are partnering with experts capable of realizing their vision.
The 2024 HAVAN Awards for Housing Excellence winners will be announced on May 4th, 2024, at the Parq, Vancouver. To view the 2024 finalist homes, visit www.havan.ca/awards.
