Custom homes aren’t designed for the masses, but the programming, materials and other ideas and practices they use can inspire adoption in mainstream housing, affordable developments and more. (Plus, who’s not looking for an excuse to view a roundup of stunning houses.)

To that end, the American Institute of Architects recently announced the winners of its 2017 Housing Awards. The projects, which include new and renovated single-family homes, production houses and multifamily and specialized developments, were reviewed and awarded by a panel of architects.

Making ample use of daylighting, natural materials and open, spacious and (in some cases) accessible plans, these designs are worth learning from.

Credit: Andrew Pogue

Blue Lake Retreat, Marble Falls, TX, by Lake|Flato Architects

The top level of this three-story home sits right above the tree line, offering views of the lake through floor-to-ceiling glazing on one side of the house and of the surrounding hilly landscape through punched windows on the other.

Credit: Timothy Hursley

The Graphic House, Fayetteville, AR, by Marlon Blackwell Architects

An L-shaped plan allows for a smooth flow between indoor and outdoor living spaces, while a loft offers additional space for this largely single-level program.

Credit: Nic Lehoux

Los Altos Residence, Los Altos, CA, by​ Bohlin Cywinski Jackson

This project puts a modernist spin on the typical Northern California ranch-style house, with ample glazing throughout the single- and double-height spaces welcoming daylight and offering views of the outdoors.

Credit: David Sundberg

Pennsylvania Farmhouse, Lakewood, PA, by Cutler Anderson Architects

Massive, moveable shutters can be used to shade the interior of this updated farmhouse in rural Pennsylvania, which is wired to accommodate a rooftop solar array.

Credit: Kevin Scott

Sawmill, Tehachapi, CA, by Olson Kundig

​Divided into three zones — or “tents” — surrounding a central gathering space, this low-slung house aims to serve as a retreat in a rural area between the San Joaquin Valley and the Mojave Desert.

Credit: Hans Kretschmer

Cully Grove, Portland, OR, Green Gables Design and Restoration

The use of clustered housing and shared amenities in this multi-generational development aims to foster community, with 16 homes surrounding two courtyards and a common building.

Credit: Sam Oberter

Roxbury E+, Boston, by Interface Studio Architects and Urbanica

This group of four wood-framed infill homes was developed through the City of Boston’s Energy Plus (E+) Green Building Program to model net-positive energy construction in market-rate housing.

Credit: Nic Lehoux

Stellar Residences and Townhomes at Northstar, Truckee, CA, by Bohlin Cywinski Jackson

This home uses floor-to-ceiling glazing, warm-toned wood and an exposed structure to blend in with the surrounding thick fir and pine forest while giving occupants views to the outdoors.

See the winners in the multifamily and specialized housing categories here.

This article was originally written by Hallie Busta and appeared here.