Somerset Indooroopilly: An Award-Winning Benchmark in Retirement Living
Somerset Indooroopilly: An Award-Winning Benchmark in Retirement Living
Somerset Indooroopilly by Aura Holdings has firmly established itself as one of Queensland’s most awarded and highly regarded retirement living communities. Located within the leafy surrounds of the Indooroopilly Golf Club, just minutes from Brisbane’s CBD, Somerset is widely recognised for redefining what independent retirement living can be; architecturally, socially and environmentally.
From national architecture awards to industry-leading ageing-in-place awards, Somerset Indooroopilly’s growing list of honours reflects a clear commitment to quality, innovation and resident wellbeing.
A Multi-Award-Winning Retirement Community
Brisbane Master Builders Housing & Construction Awards (2022)
Winner – Community Accommodation for Aged Care and Nursing Homes
Somerset Indooroopilly Stage One received top honours at the 2022 Brisbane Master Builders Housing & Construction Awards. Built by Woollam Constructions and designed by COX Architecture, the project was recognised for construction excellence and its delivery of a high-quality retirement living environment.
This early recognition reinforced Somerset’s position as a premium retirement community and highlighted the strength of collaboration between Aura Holdings, COX Architecture and Woollam Constructions.
Property Council of Australia – National Retirement Living Awards (2025)
Finalist – One Fell Swoop Award for Best Community Development (Small Operator)
In 2025, Somerset Indooroopilly was named a national finalist at the Property Council of Australia’s Retirement Living Awards. The nomination acknowledged Somerset’s thoughtful response to urban growth, ageing-in-place principles and the preservation of community assets.
Set within an active, member-owned golf course, the development demonstrates how medium-density retirement living can integrate seamlessly into established neighbourhoods while supporting independence, wellbeing and long-term liveability for residents.
Architectural Excellence Recognised at State and National Level
Australian Institute of Architects Awards (2025)
Somerset Indooroopilly achieved exceptional recognition across multiple Australian Institute of Architects awards programs:
- Winner – Queensland Architecture Awards: Residential Architecture – Multiple Housing
- Recipient – Brisbane City Council ‘Buildings That Breathe’ Award
- Commended – AIA Greater Brisbane Regional Architecture Awards
- Considered for State and National Awards
The Queensland Architecture Awards Jury described Somerset Indooroopilly as a project that:
“Redefines medium density living for an ageing population. Seamlessly integrating with the Indooroopilly Golf Club, the project supports dignified ageing in place, prioritising accessibility, sustainability, and community connection.”
The judges highlighted key design features, including:
- Naturally ventilated corridors and circulation spaces
- Operable sun shading and water-sensitive design
- Landscaped podiums and communal courtyards
- Generous apartments designed for light, airflow and accessibility
Together, these elements demonstrate how architecture can actively enhance the quality of life in retirement living.
Brisbane City Council – Buildings That Breathe Architecture Prize (2025)
Somerset Indooroopilly was awarded the prestigious Lord Mayor’s ‘Brisbane Buildings That Breathe’ Architecture Prize, recognising developments that align with Brisbane City Council’s New World City Design Guide.
The award acknowledged Somerset’s open, breathable design, integrated landscaping and strong connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, creating homes that respond naturally to Brisbane’s subtropical climate while supporting resident comfort and wellbeing.
National Recognition for Ageing in Place
Australian Apartment Advocacy Awards (2025)
- Queensland Finalist – Ageing in Place Category
- National Winner – Ageing in Place Category
At the 2025 Australian Apartment Advocacy National Awards, Somerset Indooroopilly was named the National Winner for Ageing in Place, a significant milestone recognising best practice in independent living design.
Judges praised the development for:
- Spacious, light-filled apartments nestled within the landscape
- Extensive on-site resident amenities including a pool, gym, lounges and café
- Preserving over 98% of the golf course landscape
- Creating a model that supports long-term independence and community connection
This national recognition reinforces Somerset’s role as a leading example of how retirement living can evolve to meet the expectations of today’s retirees.
Why Somerset Indooroopilly Stands Out
Somerset’s award success is grounded in clear design and lifestyle principles established from the outset:
- A building draped in greenery and centred around a subtropical, resort-style garden
- Larger-than-average apartments with generous living and dining spaces
- Deep balconies with integrated planters to enhance connection to nature
- A refined colour palette designed to age gracefully within the landscape
The long-standing collaboration between Aura Holdings and COX Architecture, spanning more than nine years, has played a vital role in achieving these outcomes. This partnership has enabled continuous innovation and a shared commitment to raising expectations within the independent living retirement village sector.
What These Awards Mean for Residents and Families
For residents, Somerset Indooroopilly’s award-winning status provides confidence that their home has been designed and delivered to the highest standards. Each award reflects Aura Holdings’ focus on:
- Supporting independence through thoughtful, accessible design
- Encouraging social connection without compromising privacy
- Creating homes that are sustainable, comfortable and future-focused
For families, the recognition offers reassurance that Somerset is a place where quality of life, dignity and long-term wellbeing are prioritised.
Setting a New Standard in Retirement Living
Somerset Indooroopilly is more than an award-winning retirement community; it is a benchmark for what independent living can be when design, construction and operator values are aligned.
Through a no-compromise approach to quality, sustainability and ageing in place, Aura Holdings continues to lead the way in creating retirement living communities that respond to both people and place.
Discover how Somerset Indooroopilly is redefining retirement living in Brisbane – where award-winning design meets everyday wellbeing.
