Developers have the chance to excel in this key part of the property market. Entries are invited for lower-priced yet outstanding starter homes that do not compromise on design, style and construction quality.

This award embraces the full spectrum of apartment living: lofts, heritage conversions, mansion block apartments, city crash-pads, and wow-factor penthouses.

Homes should be in a well-located, attractive setting, offer an impressive sense of arrival and have imaginatively designed yet functional interiors for modern living.

Top-of-the-range properties with a first-class interior, often in coveted locations. These tasteful, no expense spared, homes are often designed around a lifestyle and may include luxuries such as a spa, valet parking, or concierge service.

Exquisite conversions of prized older buildings. Entries are invited for sensitive conversion and restoration projects that respect the original building while creating practical modern homes within.

A chance for commuter-belt developers to show that homes in the suburbs and shires can match the very best of the capital. It could be a spectacular rural retreat, a thoughtfully designed family house, or an apartment that packs a punch.

Boutique projects, conversions, and new builds. Nine units or less that appeal to design-conscious buyers seeking individuality and exclusivity. The challenge here is to deliver financially viable, bespoke homes, often on difficult plots requiring exceptional creative thinking.

Projects with ten or more units qualify for this award and include large-scale developments that form a new district or neighbourhood in their own right – bringing amenities and a range of uses, as well as a place to live.

Later living developments cater for a diverse range of ages and and needs and should show both strong design and thoughtful planning. All needs should be met while maintaining a modern lifestyle and a high quality of living for the residents.

Shared ownership homes play a vital role in the housing market, helping many people get on the property ladder for the first time. They should be affordable, well designed and flexible enough to enable buyers to put down roots with the prospect of full ownership in the future.

Inspiring schemes that have transformed a neglected site or area into a vibrant new quarter, typically with a mix of residential and other uses, with shared spaces improving the lives of the local community as a result.

A project or home that responds to today’s environmental challenge and sets the highest standards in terms of energy efficiency, carbon reduction, recycling and sustainability. Homes must be sympathetic to their location and bring an innovative approach to modern sustainable living.