Wilson Building (Wgtn) Ltd managing director Grant Wilson knew the competition was tough when it came to winning the Supreme Award for the Registered Master Builders 2013 Renovation of the Year.
Mr Wilson says the team were “extremely excited” to take out the Future-Proof Building Renovation Award over $500,000, and thrilled to win a Supreme Award as well.
“We always thought our project was a special one, but we’re well aware that when you get to the national level of House of the Year, competition is extremely tough,” he says.
“Our clients were absolutely committed to restoring their home no matter what it took. Combine that with an incredibly difficult site and the task of matching the new with the old once we came to put the existing house on new foundations, and you’ve got something pretty unique.
“Despite all that, there were some lovely renovations in the running for the Supreme Award. Winning took us completely by surprise!”
The judges called the renovation incredibly successful, made even more of a success given the level of difficulty and challenges arising during the build.
“A large amount of structural work was required, including undermining, underpinning and tunnelling under the building — further complicated by the proximity of the neighbouring properties,” they said.
“Completed while sitting on temporary piles seven metres off the ground, the home is finished with recycled timber floors throughout and a panelled ceiling through the kitchen and living area.
“Where possible, original features have been restored and retained, as well as adding custom-made window sills, colonial skirting and architraves.
“The result is a beautiful home which retains all of its turn of the century character whilst cleverly incorporating modern technology conducive to this century’s lifestyles. This is a wonderful achievement and a lesson in renovations by a fantastic builder.”
Mr Wilson says House of the Year was a fantastic experience, and he would recommend entering the competition to anyone.
“It has been wonderful for us to be recognised by our peers. It’s been great for the company and it’s been really great for the guys — we’re all really happy,” he says.
“We will absolutely continue to enter House of the Year. It’s a wonderful competition, and winning such a prestigious award was just incredible. It shows people we can complete this kind of project to the highest standard. It’s something people can look for when they look for a builder — it makes us stand out. That in itself is invaluable.”
The Awards are made possible through the support of PlaceMakers, James Hardie, GIB, Nulook, Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, Future-Proof Building, Carters, ITM, Plumbing World, Resene and Westpac.
