We’re stoked to announce that Kamispace has won the Commercial Projects Under $1 Million category at the 2026 Master Builders Association Newcastle Excellence in Building Awards.
This was our first time entering a project in a commercial category, so we weren’t entirely sure what to expect. We knew Kamispace was a genuinely special project, though, and we’re incredibly proud that the judges saw that too.
Something a Little Different
Kamispace is a purpose-built creative hub in Erina, designed to support artists, workshops, education and community connection.
The project transformed an existing warehouse into a welcoming, highly functional space containing artist studios, a photography studio, flexible workshop and classroom areas, exhibition spaces, offices and retail facilities.
Commercial construction represents something a little different for Lou Projects, but the principles behind this build were the same ones we bring to every project: careful planning, quality craftsmanship, thoughtful material selection and close collaboration between the client, designer, builder and trades.
Recognition We’re Proud Of
Entering our first commercial category felt like a step into unfamiliar territory. While we’ve always been confident in the quality and care behind Kamispace, we didn’t know how it would be received alongside projects from builders with far more experience in the commercial awards.
Winning the category is an incredibly meaningful acknowledgment of the thought, skill and teamwork that went into transforming an existing warehouse into a destination for creativity and community.
Most importantly, the award belongs to everyone who helped bring the project to life: our clients, Pair Studio, the Lou Projects team and the trades whose workmanship and professionalism shaped the finished result.
A special mention goes to Copper Electrical, who were named Residential Subcontractor of the Year on the same night. We nominated them as part of our Kamispace submission, so we’re clearly a little biased – but anyone who has seen their work on site will know the recognition is thoroughly deserved.
Thank you also to Totally Drained Plumbing, MJW Tiling, Hardaker Painting and Coastal Air Conditioning, along with everyone else who contributed along the way.
We knew Kamispace was special. We’re very proud – and more than a little stoked – that the MBA judges agreed.
