The 10 best Australian homes listed in 2016

From show-stopping contemporary architecture to beautifully restored Victorian relics, there’s no doubt Australia is home to some of the most inspiring and extraordinary residences in the world.

We thought it’d be enjoyable to take a wander down memory lane by looking back at some of the most eye-catching, daring and magnificent homes that hit the market this past year.

Based on homely.com.au’s Instagram likes and comments here are your favourite Australian homes from 2016.

1. A simple cottage for two.

Surprisingly our most liked home for the year was not an opulent oceanside palace or a vast edgy architect designed mansion, but this charm-filled Victorian cottage. The humble home featuring two bedrooms, a fireplace, cosy courtyard and French doors sold for $1.19 million in February this year.

56 Aberdeen Road, Prahran, VIC

2. Architect designed modern triumph.

‘Balmain House’ was one of our personal favourites to hit the market this year because of its impeccable timber finishes, lush courtyard, polished concrete flooring and fabulously private laneway location. Designed by Fox Johnston architects and winner of the NSW AIA Design Award and Timber Design Award 2013, scrolling through the listing gallery its easy to see why this exquisitely crafted home fetched $2.51 million in early 2016.

2 Stewart Place, Balmain, NSW

3. A remarkable Sydney estate. 

Originally listed in January this year with $14 million to $15 million plus hopes, after failing to sell the double titled harbour estate has come back onto the market last month. The luxurious 1670sqm property features the main three storey Federation house, a double storey guesthouse, heated pool, four garages, a sandstone wine cellar and billiards room, plus spectacular Sydney skyline views.

For sale:  10-12 Bertha Road, Cremorne, NSW

4. Masterfully extended grand Victorian.

Making old things new again seems to be a running theme of our favourite homes of 2016 and this stunningly renovated Victorian residence is no exception. Sold for $4.6 million in July, the home features beautifully preserved period archways, cornices and ceiling roses alongside stunning modern upgrades including an entertaining terrace, electric blinds, a built-in audio system and an internal lift.

5 Yarra Street, Hawthorn, VIC

5. A terrace and former factory transformed.

Sold in June for $3,985,000 this striking family oasis really has something for everyone. It’s only a short stroll to Glebe village, has a central garden, heated pool, cricket pitch, stainless steel chef’s kitchen, music room, study and poolside cabana. Inner city perfection!

54 Bellevue Street, Glebe, NSW

6. Hamptons style riverfront opulence

A finalist in the 2015 Master Builders Queensland Housing and Construction awards, this tri-level riverfront home is currently listed for sale, with a $2.9 million plus asking price. Only 7km from Brisbane’s CBD in one of the most prestigious streets in Chelmer, we tip this attractive abode will sell for a pretty penny in no time.

159 Laurel Avenue, Chelmer, QLD

7. Resort style 5 bedroom mansion.

This sprawling 80 square mansion last sold in 2014 for $2.25 million and has recently come back onto the market. With vast open plan living, formal living and dining, media room, an outdoor kitchen and entertaining terrace, a large kitchen with Miele appliances and butler’s pantry. This home would make for the perfect Xmas present for any entertainer at heart, might be a bit difficult to gift wrap though!

6266 Broken Hills Drive, Sanctuary Cove, QLD

8. Tamborine Mountain hideaway with wow factor.

First listed in January this year this majestic home has come back onto the market recently, now advertised with a huge price reduction. The one of a kind residence has a lot to offer with five guest suites, soaring ceilings, cinema room, panic room, open fire place, dams, horse facilities and coastal views.

For sale: 105 Wongawallan Road, Tamborine Mountain, QLD

9. Bayside contemporary stunner.

This bayside beauty sold in January for $2.95 million. Highlights include 4 generous ensuited bedrooms, a dressing room, open living and outdoor entertaining, gas fireplaces and a heated pool.

4 Orchard Street, Brighton, VIC

10. A riverfront dream.

This incredible home was listed for rent in March for $3000 a week. The glam residence boasts jaw dropping views of the Swan River, an inviting swimming pool, entertaining terraces, a private master with balcony and substantial ensuite and an open fireplace.

127 Point Walter Road, Bicton, WA

For more dreamy Australian architecture check out trophy homes of Australia’s 10 richest suburbs, ultimate luxury bachelorette pads for rent and seven sumptuous wine cellars for sale.

Happy house hunting!