For those who’ve known Johnny throughout his career – you’ll know there is a quiet determination about him that surpasses most.

“As a young guy I was extremely competitive and played in the first 15 and the first 11 at Paeroa College. I didn’t have much time for the academics back then, really the only classes I truly enjoyed was woodwork technology and geography but mainly the sports field”.

Maybe those were the earliest signs that a) Johnny thrives on being part of a high performing team and b) he likes to create, build and being hands on.

Early Years

On leaving school at 16, Johnny was fortunate enough to be guided into a building apprenticeship with Paul Corr Builders – a residential builder building luxury beach homes around the Coromandel.

From there he moved to Livingston Building and then Bishop & Moore Builders; both commercial building companies, to experience up close how larger build projects operated. Johnny found himself in leading roles very early on and thrived on the challenge of larger scale projects.

Johnny completed his apprenticeship in 2002 when he was still only 20 at Bishop and Moore Builders under well-known builder Alan Moore.

Key learnings for Johnny at this stage of his career was that working and playing sport were pretty similar; to get the job done you need good teamwork, and that coaching others around you to succeed makes your job easier so you can concentrate on the detail.

What’s Next

After completing his apprenticeship Johnny was offered a Project Manager’s role for a nationwide building consultant firm he had had an eye on, but as luck and life would have it at the same time he met Michelle (now wife/business partner/great mum).

Within a few short weeks of the pair meeting, Michelle headed off on her pre planned OE to London which left Johnny with a couple of key decisions to make. Dream job or potential wife?

After some brief advice from his potential father in law Peter (Pedro) Johnny turned down the project management role and jumped on a plane to join Michelle six weeks later. Johnny will tell you to this day it’s the best business decision he’s ever made.

Unbeknown to Johnny and Michelle the opportunities London would provide were about to pave the way for future family and business success.

Entrepreneurial From the Outset

After arriving in London Johnny took up a role with a building firm a friend he worked with in NZ put him on to. It wasn’t long before he and another colleague at that job (Matt) saw an opportunity to set up their own operation in the extremely buoyant London property market.

Within three months of stepping off the plane at Heathrow, Johnny and Matt took a massive leap of faith in one of the largest cities in the world and headed out on their own, ‘’We basically maxed out our credit cards and rolled up our sleeves. It was a daunting but exciting challenge.’’

‘’At the time we literally had no money so it was definitely a big risk, but I saw an opportunity and Michelle backed it. Some people might say catching the London underground to your own building site and meeting your tools and clients there was crazy, and it was! But in true kiwi fashion we worked our butts off and made it work!’’

‘’At one point Michelle and I were staring down the barrel of being evicted from the modest bedsit that we rented in Ealing Broadway for being two weeks late on our rent payment. This meant my negotiating skills were always well refined when entering into my next building contract talks!

When you’re faced with such constraints you by default go back to the fundamentals you learn in life, and through sheer hard work, determination and exceptional people relationship attributes; thankfully things went up for Johnny.

With a booming UK economy and constant workflow, Johnny and Matt saw further potential to multiply and maximise their encouraging start in business, and after 6 months they decided to split the modest array of assets the business had built up and go it alone. They managed to maintain a mutually supportive role to each other and their workloads. ‘’Maintaining the strong relationship was important and we split the assets with a simple game of paper, scissors, and rock! True story’’

Johnny and Michelle continued to thrive on the London property and construction boom for a further 4 years until late 2008 when Johnny and Michelle made the decision to move home closer to family.

On arriving back in NZ and with almost 5 years international traveling, life and business experience under his belt, Johnny set out to establish both building and development aspirations he had since entering into the building trade in 1998.

In the 9 years since settling in Tauranga, Johnny along with wife Michelle, founded industry leading Calley Homes which specialises in residential bespoke design and build projects across the Bay of Plenty. Johnny also Co-founded and is Co-Director of TGA Homes and has other business interests in land development projects and commercial property.

What Makes a Business Succeed?

Cutting your teeth in one of the world’s largest cities within such a highly competitive market, Johnny knew when he arrived back in New Zealand he not only wanted to set the industry standard he wanted to raise it and he has.

This strategic, transformational leadership style suited Johnny to a tee. Initiating change for the better, improving quality controls, motivating and educating others to reach their highest potential is what makes Johnny tick.

It’s important to Johnny that he leads by example within his own business environments and other associations he is involved in – and with a driven nature you can see why he loved playing his chosen sports so much back in the day ...same theory different field so to speak.

Johnny believes to get the best results you have to invest in your business presentation and also the people that work within it and this is reflected at Calley Homes who currently have eight apprentices and three site managers in training. Organising, developing and supporting a performance enhancing team takes dedication and focus and the results really do speak for themselves.

“Your business will be better off for having an exceptional employee for a shorter period of time opposed to a really average one for a long period of time”.

Something More About Johnny

External Transformational Leadership Roles:

2013 – Present

RMBA Executive committee member - Tauranga

2014 – 2017

RMBA President – Registered Master Builders Association - Tauranga

2017 - Present

Director – RMBA Board of Directors, Registered Master Builders Association - National

2016 – Present

Residential Working Group - National

Group includes representation from BCITO, Worksafe, Brandz, Fletcher’s and Registered Master Builders Association

Key career highlights

Getting a building apprenticeship and completing itRepresenting and advocating for my fellow industry colleagues to assist in creating a better building environmentCreating and developing Calley HomesWatching and assisting my own staff develop their careersBecoming President of RMBA TaurangaBeing voted onto the RMBA Board of Directors

Personal

36 yrs old Married to Michelle and have three children; Zak, Mason and MilaLoves fishing, rugby, cricket and playing squashAlso loves spending time with extended family and friends Coaches son’s rugby team at Tauranga SportsPositive and healthy lifestyleFamily most important driver in life

Project Highlight

Completing any project is a highlight but the Mount Classic we built on Muricata Avenue at the Mount would have to be the defining build. It was the last project where I was on the tools and had all the aspects that make a build rewarding from innovation to character and of course the friendships that have developed.

Meet Matthew Abbott, who was awarded first place at the Bay of Plenty Apprentice of the Year. The 22-year-old from Tauranga trained through BCITO and is employed by Calley Homes. He is one of ten finalists for the title of 2017 RMB CARTERS Apprentice of the Year.

Matt’s been with us at Calley Homes for just over four years and as the Regional Bay of Plenty/ Central Plateau winner for Master Builder Apprentice of the Year he is about to head to the National competition in November. The team at Calley Homes are really proud of his achievement. With his can do attitude and his strong work ethic he’s achieved a lot during his apprenticeship.

Here’s a brief Q&A we asked him to do to find out more about his experience throughout his apprenticeship

What were you like in high school?

“I went to Tauranga Boys and I was socially focused. I played rugby in the 1st 15 and really wasn’t thinking too far ahead. We travelled to the UK and Wales to play rugby in my final year which was a highlight.

When and how did you start at Calley Homes?

I arrived home from the rugby tour and had to start thinking about what I wanted to do. One of my teachers mentioned a builder he knew who was looking to take two young guys on. That was Johnny.

I went for a two week workplace trial and enjoyed the hard graft and the fact I was outdoors so when Johnny offered me a full time role I jumped at the chance. Three months later I decided to take the leap and begin my apprenticeship.

What made you decide to take on the apprenticeship?

In February 2014 I decided to take on the apprenticeship. I liked working onsite and outdoors and enjoyed working as part of the Calley Homes team. I felt I was in the right place with Calley Homes being known for the highest quality design and build work.

Was it a difficult choice?

I think initially I had to get used to the reality of working from 7am to 5pm each day so it wasn’t until I was three or four months into it that I started to stand back and look at what I was achieving. I liked being able to create something. I found satisfaction in that.

I was a little nervous about taking on the bookwork that goes along with an apprenticeship but I got that sorted early on by setting aside a few hours every second Sunday. I’ve had support the whole way through too so it’s easier when you have a boss that believes in you.

What changes have you seen in yourself since taking the apprenticeship on?

“So much has changed. From learning the basics of being on a construction site and learning the tools to developing enough to be given the responsibility of the role of foreman on a $500K plus build. I’ve also become a father and that has made me step up and apply myself further. My partner Helen and son Flynn are my motivation”.

What made you decide to enter the Master Builders apprentice of the year?

I wanted to measure myself against my peers and gain the recognition proving to my family, my boss and my work colleagues what I am capable of.

What advice would you give to someone considering taking on an apprenticeship?

So many people I know have taken the university course because they haven’t known what they want to do and it’s not right for everyone. At the end of this year I will have completed my apprenticeship and will be a qualified builder without the headache of the debt of a student loan. So I think considering a trade as a career is definitely something to think about.

I also think not letting the bookwork put you off. When you apply yourself it’s not hard and as you gain the results you do feel satisfied.

Make sure the company is one you want to work for, that you’re proud to work for. It’s been great for me as I’ve had a good experience and made some awesome mates.

Find out more about a career with Calley Homes

Find out more about Master Builders - Apprentice of the Year competition here

Find out more about choosing a trade as a careerhere

Inspired by Californian Mid-Century Modern Architecture Mike and Chris Johnston’s love for their new home is evident. Stunning in its simplicity the home is settled in this semi rural landscape with striking and definitive architectural lines and strong robust materials that compliment the surrounds.

Prior to the build being completed Mike and Chris were living full time in central Auckland both having extensive careers in the commercial property sector. “We would escape for the weekend and come down to stay in our purpose built barn”. Says Chris. “Mike originally hails from Katikati and we’re the fifth generation of his family to live on the land here. We’d always planned to build and eventually retire here”.

In fact they planted the site that surrounds their newly built home over ten years ago. “We only lost one tree in the build and only because the house had to be stepped back on the site”.

Having spent many years staying on the site Mike and Chris had some definite ideas about what they wanted and worked alongside a progressive architect from A & S Design who captured their vision for their home.

The home features two central spines that are cast from insitu poured board form concrete walls. The unique process captures the full timber grain from the decorative rusticated formwork in the concrete.

“The concrete casting was a challenge. We met with various builders before deciding on building with Johnny and the team at Calley Homes” says Mike. “Each of the builders appeared to have reservations about the concrete casting and began the build discussion with hurdles and compromise”.

“We had been referred to Johnny and meeting him was a breath of fresh air. He simply embraced our vision. His enthusiasm for the project and understanding of the asthetic we were trying to achieve resonated with us. I think it helps enormously if the builder likes the design” says Chris. “He did his research, called upon excellent advice from Ross Bannan a well known Concreteologist and ensured that this critical element in the home’s design went without a hitch. It’s no easy feat’

These beautifully crafted concrete walls are contrasted with vertical shiplap cedar and both of these materials feature externally and internally. “There’s an honesty in the use of the materials that provides such an easy space to be in” says Chris.

With sweeping pergola eaves and effortless indoor outdoor flow this home reaches out and embraces views over the estuary, river inlet and out to the harbour while remaining modest against the established landscape.

Polished salt and pepper concrete floors throughout the majority of living spaces are centrally heated underfoot and 2.7m high ceilings and recessed blinds throughout the home add to the elevated sense of space.

One of the critical details to achieving this effortless feel is the negative detailing. There are no skirting boards instead perfectly executed negative detailing is cast into the concrete walls and around the doors and along the lower walls where traditional skirting would usually be found.

The hub of this home is open plan living with a state of the art kitchen carved into the concrete walls and cedar paneling. Solid Ceaser Stone benchtops and contrasted dark stained oak cabinetry create a striking heart to what is an effortless entertaining space with a well equipped scullery to finish this area off. The space flows to an outdoor louvered dining area, outdoor fireplace and hot tub.

Off the core living space is a less formal snug library area that gives this compact home a well-blended mix of formal and casual living. All living spaces and bedrooms are designed looking out towards the view.

“It’s amazing how many decisions have to be made early on. We had weekly meetings with Johnny and we felt informed throughout the entire process. I was given time to make the decisions and provided with realistic time frames to do so” says Chris.

This time and thought is reflected in the quality and choices of the fittings within the home. From the matt black door hardware and carefully considered tap ware to the custom made bathroom cabinetry and beautiful glass tiling. All elements combining to compliment and finish this home

“Johnny was such a good person to communicate with and his team including foreman Shaun were excellent” says Chris.

“Nothing was impossible, nothing was a negative. I cannot recall one instance during the build process where we were unhappy or felt stress or pressure” say Mike. “It was a pleasure”.

If you’ve never built before beginning the build process can feel daunting so we’ve put fingers to keyboard to give a brief outline of what’s involved with designing and building your new home. We’ve also got a comprehensive guide with checklists and tips you can download from our website here.

Getting started

1.Call on the builder for an on site consultation

No two sites are the same. So step one is to call in the experts. This is the opportunity for your builder to gain insightful knowledge about what your dream is for your site, what structure will work best for the site.

There are a number of considerations that will be discussed at this point that include; budget, timeframes, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, prevailing wind directions, how to maximise sunlight, cladding and any building restrictions that may apply. You can prepare for your onsite consultation and gain more insight by downloading the comprehensive guide here …

Now it’s time to get on with your new homes concept design.

2. Design Phase

Based off the information we’ve obtained we now have a concept plan drawn up. We then get together and work through the home room by room making any moderations or alterations. It’s best to apply any changes to the plan at this stage so the build process goes as smoothly as possible. This phase requires time commitment and effort from both parties to ensure the design encapsulates your dreams and also works within your budget. You can gain more insight and guidance by using the checklist by downloading the comprehensive guide here

Then your build journey enters the detailing phase

3. Pre Consent and Working Drawings

Once concept design has been signed off we move swiftly along and go through room by room to discuss what finishes are required. Included in this process we can assist by pairing you with a range of experienced interior designers. We also help you with product selection and once all that’s done plans are officially priced for the building contract which is then presented to council for building consent. We agree a start date and supply you with a timeline.

Exciting times! The build begins

4. The Build

We want you to stay as involved as you can, so we will arrange on-site meetings and regular visits with you so you can see for yourself exactly what is happening. It’s really exciting to see how your new home progresses. We have an online project management system that allows you to track progress at home, on holiday or at the office. Don’t be afraid to ask questions because our experts are on hand to give you the answers.

and finally….

5. Pop the Champagne

Once your new home is complete it’s time to celebrate! Just imagine how good it will feel walking into your beautiful, finished new home for the first time. We’ll hand over your 10 year guarantee and your keys and you can sit back and enjoy the future in your new home.

Building consents valued at more than $240 million were issued in Tauranga for the first four months of this year - a new record.Figures released by Priority One showed $57.7 million last month, which was down on March.There were 198 consents, compared with March's 251 and included a consent for the complete upgrade of a CBD building which has stood empty for almost two years.

Tauranga Master Builders Association President Johnny Calley.

Read the full article here

Traditional storage has come a long way with innovation and style now a must. Wether you’re looking to declutter, joining the Minimalist Movement or you want to create storage within a living space then we’ve got some tips and inspiration on smart storage solutions.

1. Just hanging

Utilise your walls with a super cool pegboard where your handbags and gym bags get to hang out with your terrarium and your new e-bike.

2. Bench Spaces & window seats

Turning a lifestyle space into a clever storage space looks great and takes care of the clutter. A place to pop your favourite books, hideaway cosy throws, extra cushions and all those other bits and bobs.

3. Stairs...

Storage space built into and under stairs is space optimisation at its finest. Out on display or hidden away, the choice is now what to put into your handy cubby holes or cleverly disguised drawers.

4. Maximise the Minimalist Look

Design features that also double as storage space are elegantly simple and max out every space in the room. Bang on trend we don’t think this look will go out of fashion for a long time.

5. Show Off

Floor to ceiling shelving allows you to surround yourself with a few of your favourite things right where you can see it. If you want some things to remain private, use baskets to hide things away from prying eyes.

Looking for more storage inspiration. Pop on over to our pinterest boards and take a look here https://nz.pinterest.com/calleyhomes/.

Beginning your new home build can often feel daunting with so many decisions to make. From finding the right person to design your home to deciding on products and finishes you like to what will ultimately fit into your budget.…the list of things you need to consider can get a little out of control. That’s why at Calley Homes we suggest you start by talking with us first!

We have worked with clients at varying stages of their home design projects and believe the best result is achieved when the client has the company responsible for building their home walking alongside them from the beginning and throughout the design process.

We did a brief Q&A with Johnny (the boss) about some of the key reasons for working this way

Why begin with the builder rather than going to the architect or architectural designer first?

“Often clients have an idea of what they want but aren’t sure how to convey this to get the best result. We manage the entire process, we work to understand the clients vision from the outset. We bring together the right design team to suit the clients budget, vision and style”.

Why does this collaborative approach work better?

“We can analyse potential costs throughout the design process which provides you with comfort that the design meets the budget. Often when clients go to a designer first they can find that the plans they’ve had designed when costed are out of reach. We give practical solutions to the designers and engineers throughout the detailing of construction drawings and work to find the best outcome for the client ”.

What are the biggest advantages for the client in working this way?

“We provide detailed projections of project costs including site development, consent, build and landscapes ensuring you can plan ahead. We engage all engineers and consultants to provide the correct documentation that will make for a seamless project from beginning to end”.

“When building a home construction processes are the biggest contributor to the cost, both in time and money. We always take this into account when liaising with the design and engineering teams and provide our construction methods based on our broad experience, we encourage these build processes as they are functional, efficient and sustainable. Product selection is also a key contributor to cost so we again encourage investment in the right areas”.

“Ultimately because we are able to understand the clients key objectives, and we are able to guide the process we end up with a set of drawings and documentation that supports our preferred build methodologies which gives our clients a better return on their investment”.

How do you ensure the clients creative ideas are incorporated into the design?

“We always meet our clients onsite before we begin the design process. In most cases the site will determine a few elements of each home so we always try to use those to the advantage of the property”.

“We ask every client for any examples of homes, features and design styles such as cladding, kitchens, bathrooms etc… Some have been pinning on pinterest or collecting from magazines. We get a pretty good idea of the style and function our clients are trying to achieve and can help guide them to the right design partners”

You can check out our Calley Homes pinterest boards here

While our focus is on building we do tend to see interior trends sometimes over 12 months ahead of the game as an interior board is completed by an interior designer for a client of ours or as we plan an exterior finish with an architectural designer.

We thought with the new year upon us we would share some of the top trends you might begin to see across the industry for interiors in the next 12 months.

Brushed brass and soft golds.

Newsflash! Copper is out! It’s the soft warm metals such as brass and gold that are making a comeback. Contrasting against matt finishes this look ensures a refined elegance to a space and a twist on contemporary styling. Check out our gold inspired pinterest board over here

Greens of all shades

With pantone announcing greenery as the 2017 colour of the year (a zesty vibrant green) it makes sense that all shades of green from deep emerald to pastel mint will follow closely behind for forecasted interior trends.

Dark shades of green will become the new must-have dark interior colour. The perfect backdrop to a contemporary space or scandi styled home, green as a paint colour works well with classic tan leathers, natural linens, brass and gold tones as accents. Check out our green board for inspiration over on pinterest here

Terracotta

Warm earthy tones inspired by the landscape - terracotta is becoming a hero for those creating a rustic, authentic interior feel this year. From brick finished interior walls to floor and wall tiling (and we don’t mean the terracotta throwbacks from the 80’s) to home accessories including plant pots and artworks. Check out our terracotta inspired pinterest board over here

Cork it’s making a comeback

You heard it here first – cork is making a comeback.

Not only is cork a stylish material that adds warmth and texture to spaces, it’s also ideal for absorbing noise in our increasingly large, open plan homes. It’s also very eco friendly.

Stylish Technology

Smart Home features & matt appliances are making a play in 2017. With the prominent use of mobile devices in our day to day lives the incorporation of creative and stylish charging docks and “lifestyle” looks to our kitchen appliances are a focus in 2017.

For more interior inspiration for what to expect in 2017 head over to our pinterest board here https://nz.pinterest.com/calleyhomes

In recent months we’ve completed a significant number of weatherboard clad homes. Our clients choosing to use this versatile cladding for each of their home builds for a variety of reasons but predominantly for it’s character and timeless style.

The advantages of weatherboard are unmistakable being low maintenance and sustainable it is effectively an organic choice for home cladding. After the “hangover” felt from the leaky building issues, weatherboard is a trusted material that provides security and assurance when making the investment in your new home.

With this resurgence of interest it’s important to acknowledge the historical significance of the weatherboard home in New Zealand’s architectural landscape.

From the heritage homes built pre 1900’s which still endure within the older suburbs of established New Zealand cities such as Auckland’s Ponsonby and Onehunga to the large mid century Californian bungalows inspired by the American greats such as Architect Frank Lloyd Wright which are still prominent in the older streetscapes of Tauranga.

Or the small weatherboard clad beach bach dotted along New Zealand’s coastline which inspire fond memories of long hot summers and the quintessential connection for many kiwis with the great outdoors.

Today notable influences for weatherboard home designs are inspired by the American inspired coastal classics of Cape Cod and the Hamptons both in colour and styles. Ultimately nothing beats the charm and character that appears intrinsic with a weatherboard home.

One of our most recently completed weatherboard homes (which is featuring in the National Master Builder Awards) was built in the established Tauranga Avenues. Weatherboard was the perfect choice for a sympathetic look within this established and character filled neighbourhood amongst homes built predominantly throughout the late 20’s and mid 50’s.

Sweeping views over the Tauranga harbour and out to the Mount are the perfect setting for this stunning new home. Contemporary and stylish this home is nestled into the hillside and is deceptive in size with 290m2 the home features four Bedrooms, three bathrooms, two powder rooms, generous open plan living and media room.

The exterior is a combination of negative detailing panel cladding, Stack bond block cladding and negative detail soffit panels. An advanced septic drainage system was installed to meet the homes requirements on this elevated site.

Open plan living with a two storey void in the heart of the home. The glass edged walkway opens the area to both light and views. Salt and pepper polished concrete floors create a sleek and contemporary finish.

The kitchen is situated to maximise lifestyle for the chef in the family. Interaction between the indoors and outdoors is key in this space.

Stone bench tops feature in the kitchen which is at the heart of both the indoor and outdoor living.

Indoor/ outdoor flow has been designed to capture the views and make this most of alfresco living space, with stacking sliders that open up the indoors to the outdoors seamlessly.

Alfresco outdoor living with TV, Fridge and radiant heating.

The master bedroom captures views out over the Bay.

Floor to ceiling minimal finish tiling in the bathroom ensuite makes for a stylish result.

Indoor/ outdoor living is a quintessential part of Kiwi living, so when it comes to building a new home, maximising outdoor living space is a top priority for many. In fact we often find when reviewing the build site initially with our clients, that it’s an important aspect to discuss early in the design phase. We work with our clients to capture and integrate the exterior space to create the ultimate in indoor outdoor living.

Outside of budget constraints there are important things to consider when looking at your site. Understanding how you want to use your exterior space and how this will work around the vagaries of mother nature is essential when planning or renovating an outdoor living area. Creating architectural elements that allow your indoor living to expand, blend and transform with the outdoor space can add so much value to the finished experience. Outdoor spaces should be an extension of your indoor living and should be treated the same way - considering function, style, mood and a reflection of your taste.

Access area and points: Are you thinking large stacking sliders to open your indoors to the outdoors, or classic patio doors and windows?… it’s important to consider access as this can blend the two spaces.

Shelter: Sun in winter, shade in summer, adjustable louvre roofs can help you to capture more time outdoors throughout the day and extend your outdoor season. Feature walls to separate spaces or zones, or to shelter from a wind aspect.

Heating: Patio heaters and outdoor gas fireplaces come into their own in winter or on cool nights and ensure you can use your outdoor space longer. As well as providing heating they have a natural ambience that draws family and friends to gather around. Dining spaces? Outdoor kitchens integrated barbecue areas and bar leaners.

Pools or spas: Again it’s important to consider access, safety fencing, stairs and surfaces.

Furnishing your exterior space: Think of your immediate outdoor space as an additional room that extends you living space. Choose furnishings that are weatherproof (all weather fabrics) and have UV resistant ratings. layering, texture and accessories are important factors. Outdoor rugs, durable finishes, blinds and exterior shutters. These things will all add considerable comfort and beauty to your outdoor spaces.

We were stoked to take five awards away (3 golds including s a gold reserve award and 2 silver awards) at this years 2016 Masterbuilder Awards. Our teams dedication to each clients home build project is second to none and this is reflected in the results.

Featured below is each home and the award/category it was awarded for.

Each regional category is judged by industry peers including an architect and a builder who rate each home against a set criteria scorecard. The highest points scoring Gold Awards.

Gold Award is exceptional, having achieved 90 percent or more of the points available.

A Silver Award is excellent having achieved 82% of the points available.

Each year a maximum of 100 entries from the regional competitions receive Gold reserve status . All the Gold Reserve finalists are then judged by a new national judging panel who have the challenging task of finding one winner in each category.

Gold Award and Gold Reserve Award Winner (Selected to represent the region in the National Awards)

Category: Future Proof Building $500,000 to $650,000. This compact family home 258.2m2 is nestled in the Avenues on a small 450m2 site.

Gold Award

Category: Renovation over $500,000.

This compact family home 258.2m2 is nestled in the Avenues on a small 450m2 site.

What was once an outdated three-bedroom, two-storey home has been transformed into this three-level,four-bedroom stunner.

Silver Award

Category: Carters $1 million - $2 million

Clad in Cedar timber this Mount Maunganui home sits well in the coastal environment with wonderful water views as the backdrop.

Silver Award

Category: Nulook New Home $650,000 - $1 million

Designed and built for beach living, this contemporary four-bedroom Mt Maunganui home is an entertainer’s dream.

This home sits in a rural setting and features random laid painted brick as it's caldding. The brick is random in width and depth giving the home a textural appearance and features along the entry wall from the exterior to the interior of the home.

Polished concrete floors feature white stone and contrast the bold and vibrant green barn door which opens the entry space to the living area.

The kitchen sets the scene within this home with it's state of the art electric opening drawers and cupboards giving it a seamless appearance and it's butlers kitchen.

The stacking window sliders open onto an outdoor dining space complete with outdoor fireplace and views of the rolling hills.

The living space features and inbuilt gas fireplace and recessed television and opens to the rural setting.

Bathrooms are a key lifestyle feature within this home with separate his and hers bathrooms off the master bedrooms wardrobe. Carefully created glass lined walls with negative detailing and strip LED lighting. Hans Grohe Bathroom and tapware.

Again the main family bathroom features glass lined panels, negative detailing and strip LED lighting. This room feels like you have stepped into a private oasis.

This unique home was a collaboration between our clients Hamish and Vicki, their architect and ourselves. An extraordinary home built in a classic styling it packed full of lifestyle features and innovations. The home won GOLD at the 2015 Master Builder Awards and also took out the LIFESTYLE award for Outdoor Living.

To find out more about Hamish and Vicki's journey watch the video here

Fantastic indoor outdoor flow, this classic weatherboard home has a large family swimming pool, expansive decking and louvred cover.

The indoor outdoor flow in this home is all about lifestyle. With a louvre covered outdoor living area for all weather conditions, an integrated spa that vanishes beneath the decking when not in use at the touch of a button.

This home featured exposed rafters and rustic oak flooring. Floating stair treads with negative detail feature on the stair case.

The designer kitchen includes a Stainless steel butchers block, a butlers sink and a scullery it also has bi fold windows which open out to the decking and act as a breakfast bar for summer months. A kitchen nook was custom designed to provide an additional seating space.

The lounge is a relaxed space that features a pivot television. This is disguised behind the mirror above the fireplace when not in use.

Built on the edge of the Ngatai Road Ridge line this homes foundations are over five metres deep.

With amazing views out to Matakana and Mount Maunganui this three bedroom home stretches along the ridgeline.

Open plan living spans across from kitchen to dining to lounge and feature blonded ply ceilings with negative detailing and a high gloss lacquered kitchen with stone tops make this space incredible.

The home features an outdoor alfresco living area with louvretec roof and open wood fire that captures the views and leads off the lving spaces. The indoor outdoor flow is enhanced with an advanced Bose sound system. The home features two floor to ceiling tiled bathrooms.