Celebrating the Best in Cabinetry and Design
Independent Cabinet Makers (ICM) Geelong
Awards 2026
ICM Geelong is a collective of independent cabinetmakers and designers committed to championing local talent, supporting the next generation of tradespeople and
promoting the value of custom, locally made cabinetry. Through initiatives such as the annual awards, apprenticeship recognition and industry events, ICM Geelong
continues to strengthen and showcase the thriving cabinetmaking and design community across the region.
BEST KITCHEN UNDER $50K
WINNER: FAUVE BY DESIGN
PROUDLY SPONSORED BY NEWGROVE BENCHTOPS
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.
A standout feature is the floating timber shelf that runs across the window. A recessed LED strip along the underside provides functional task lighting across the full length of the bench, including over the sink where traditional overhead lighting would not reach.
“The design balances warmth, contrast and practicality with great confidence, resulting in a kitchen that feels refined, individual and highly liveable. It’s strong joinery detailing and clear design identity make it a deserving winner in this category”, Frank Iaria, Judge
Photography by Stephanie Rooney
Photography by Lillie Thompson
BEST KITCHEN OVER $50K
WINNER: SCLK
ROUDLY SPONSORED BY E&S AND FISHER & PAYKEL
Every element feels carefully composed including the sculptural island bench paired with Sally Caroline’s Lunetta Perch stools.
The dramatic use of marble creates a powerful yet beautifully controlled focal point, while the soft natural light, warm timber flooring and sheer drapery bring a sense of calm and sophistication to the space.
Brass was introduced to complement the marble with SCLK working with Ore Designs to wrap all joinery panels and doors. The brass was patinaed to achieve a rich, aged look.
BEST HOUSE LOT
WINNER: SCLK
PROUDLY SPONSORED BY RMS TRADERS
The home demonstrates exceptional design cohesion across multiple spaces. From the sculptural kitchen (winner of the Best Kitchen Over $50k) living areas, bathrooms and robes, the joinery is a work of craftsmanship.
The Bronze Valley pool house fireplace is a single joinery unit that functions as architecture as much as joinery.
The standout design element in the pool house kitchen is the island bar, finished in powder pink micro cement, a nod to the Caribbean reference point that interior designer, Sally Caroline established for the pool house. Achieving the micro cement finish required all substrate work to be curved and hand-radiused on the underside, as the CNC at SCLK could only take the geometry so far.
“This unique entry caught my eye for its opulence and strong square lines combined with soft finishes.” Darren Grayson, Judge
Photography by Lillie Thompson
Photography by Nikole Ramsay
PEOPLE’S CHOICE BEST KITCHEN OVER $50K
WINNER: GREER MAYBERRY DESIGN
PROUDLY SPONSORED BY E&S AND FISHER & PAYKEL
The dark timber cabinetry, marble surfaces, brass accents and feature lighting create a rich, moody and highly sophisticated kitchen.
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.
“What elevates this kitchen is its confidence. It does not rely on excessive detail or visual clutter; instead, it uses proportion, materiality and spatial composition to create impact. The dark vertical elements frame the kitchen beautifully, while the stone and softer surrounding finishes create balance. It feels refined, architectural and highly sophisticated.” Frank Iaria, Judge
CAESARSTONE BEST KITCHEN
WINNER: MONARCH KJ
PROUDLY SPONSORED BY CAESARSTONE
This stunning kitchen proves that simplicity, functionality and quality craftsmanship never go out of style.
Featuring Caesarstone Turbine Grey benchtops and splashbacks, paired beautifully with crisp white cabinetry, the space feels refined, timeless and inviting.
The striking stone island becomes the hero of the kitchen, adding texture, depth and a sophisticated edge to the clean palette.
Photography and Construction by &FARR
Photography by Nic Stephens Photography
BEST SMALL RANGE JOINERY
WINNER: LIVING SPACE JOINERY
PROUDLY SPONSORED BY: LINCOLN SENTRY
“This beautiful small-range joinery project combines craftsmanship, materiality and atmosphere with exceptional confidence, “ Frank Iaria, Judge
The integrated bar cabinetry, wine storage, fluted glass doors and custom timber handles create a rich and highly detailed composition, while the internal lighting and stone accents add depth and refinement.
The joinery feels fully embedded within the mood of the room, acting as both a functional entertaining zone and a striking design feature.
Its balance of complexity, quality workmanship and strong visual presence makes it a deserving winner in this category.
BEST BATHROOM DESIGN
WINNER: TORQING DESIGN
PROUDLY SPONSORED BY E&S AND BRODWARE
This bathroom interior has a strong sense of character, heritage and drama which was key to the brief.
The combination of black cabinetry, brass detailing, marble surfaces, decorative mirrors and a statement freestanding bath creates a richly layered and memorable space.
The custom double vanity features gentle curves and detailed drawer fronts, offering a balance of functionality and refined design.
“There is a clear design narrative throughout, with each element contributing to the overall atmosphere rather than standing alone.” Frank Iaria, Judge
Photography by Olivia Barua Interiors
POLYTEC BEST KITCHEN
WINNER: MONARCH KJ
PROUDLY SPONSORED BY POLYTEC
The island detailing and timber profile create an elegant kitchen.
“This kitchen is an example of enduring design where soft forms, integrated storage and material consistency combine seamlessly with functionality.
The lining elevates the joinery into a sculptural focal point.” Christina Elvin, Judge
Use of polytec Blonde Oak Decorative Board, High Pressure Laminate and Porta Cirque Tas Oak, provides a lovely blend of natural and engineered elements.
Photography by Nic Stephens Photography
BEST OUTDOOR KITCHEN
WINNER: ICAB CABINETS
PROUDLY SPONSORED BY SANDMAN STONE GEELONG
This highly integrated outdoor kitchen and entertaining zone is an addition to the pool house. It supports the full alfresco living experience.
“The long linear cabinetry, integrated appliances, sink, barbecue area and adjoining media unit create a cohesive and practical layout for entertaining.
Warm timber tones are balanced with dark benchtop surfaces, resulting in a refined and contemporary palette that sits comfortably within the surrounding architecture.” Frank Iaria, Judge
MEET THE JUDGES
CHRISTINA ELVIN
HEAD OF POLYTEC
Christina Elvin brings over 25 years of experience across design, construction and Australian manufacturing.
Known for her collaborative and commercially minded approach, she works closely with architects, designers, builders and cabinet makers to support innovation, strengthen specification outcomes and contribute to sustainable growth across the built environment.
DARREN GRAYSON
HOME DESIGNER
Darren Grayson, an experienced home designer since 2000, specialises in a holistic approach to creating harmonious living spaces. Darren has an innate talent for blending intricate floor plans, elevations, and interiors, and harmonious projects.
FRANK IARIA
MINT KITCHEN GROUP
Frank Iaria is an experienced kitchen and interiors designer and the driving force behind Mint Kitchen Group by Designwize in Melbourne.
With 40 years of experience in the design, cabinetry, and interiors industry, Frank has built a strong reputation for design detail, functionality, craftsmanship, and client-focused outcomes.