Mr Redmond said the kitchen in the rural property was very stylised and large.
"There were a lot of interesting materials in the kitchen - concrete, cedar, exposed beams, oak floors and stainless steel - and it was a room that worked well with casual seating for informal dining.
"It had a contemporary twist but still in the classic style," he said. "Everybody likes the kitchen - it is a room that works well."
The outdoor living award was won thanks to a high level of landscaping with plenty of outdoor areas, trees, a large swimming pool and impressive Hawke's Bay scenery.
"The views in the Tukituki valley are just stunning - it was a hands-down winner."
He said it was a two-horse race in the top category with the Auckland house that went on to win the Supreme Award.
"Their budget was double ours, but it was a beautiful home that was obviously well-built and they did deserve to win."