WAN House of the Year for 2007 Almost Here!

World Architecture News‘ (WAN) House of the Year short list is out! Now we wait. On Friday, February 15th a winner will be announced.

Here’s this year’s short list:

1. Salt Point House Thomas Phifer and Partners- New York, USA
2. The Long House Keith Williams Architects – London, UK
3. Acrylic House Takeshi Hosaka Architects – Japan
4. Home/office Marià Castelló arquitecte – Formentera Island, Spain
5. House J Kevin Fellingham Architecture – Cape Town, SA
6. J2 House 3LHD architects – Zagreb, Croatia

Now, do I have an opinion about who should win? Of course I do. Geez. You knew I would. Can you guess from the photo above which house I’d choose?

My favorite for the win:

I like the J2 House. I’m already a fan of a lot of 3LHD’s work, in particular, Villa Klara and their Sports Hall Bale. I think J2 is beautiful. I guess some of the judges found it a bit too industrial for residential – but I think it strikes a nice balance between unique and livable.

You can see more of this stunning home – including some interior shots at the 3LHD website.

Who I think will actually win:

I’m not sure but I think that it will be Salt Point House or House J. While I like Salt Point House, my big money is on House J for the win. Why? Mainly because there are two homes that made the short list, that I’m not in love with, and House J was one of them. I’m always guessing contest outcomes wrong. Also, I think J House has that whole, “I’m complex, so love me!” deal going on. Don’t get me wrong, the more I see it and read about it, the more I like it. House J has some excellent qualities. I just don’t adore it. Not my style. Although, you do sort of have to love this shot…

You know you love it.

Visit World Architecture News to see all six homes and choose your favorite. Or love them all equally if you like – just go take a look. Maybe come tell me which you like best. On Friday, we’ll see who wins.