Todd Grey of Todd Grey Builders was “excited, happy and relieved” when his name was read out as the winner of the ITM Renovation Award $250,000 – $500,000 at the Registered Master Builders 2013 House of the Year.
Mr Grey says he was completely taken aback when he was announced as the winner.
“I knew the house we entered was amazing, but because you don’t see the competitors’ houses you just don’t know how you measure up. You never really know what you’re up against,” he says.
“Once it sunk in, pride was definitely the emotion that took over. I was so excited for my team — it’s a huge achievement and we all really deserved this win. It’s great recognition for all of us, and an indicator of the high quality job we do.”
Mr Grey says there was a spate of challenges involved in this renovation, which made his win all the more rewarding.
“One of the main challenges we faced was literally working around the client. They lived in the home throughout the entire renovation,” he says.
“Meeting expectations was a bit of a challenge too. The architect provided our client with a 3D artist impression of what the home should look like, so they had a clear vision of what they were expecting. The stakes were high.”
The judges called the renovation an impressive transformation of a 1990s home that could leave you thinking it’s brand new.
“The combination of the horizontal lines of white painted rusticated cedar weatherboards and contrasting black vertical shiplap cedar weatherboards set the tone for this beautifully revived property,” they said.
“Seamlessly linked indoor and outdoor living blended with a tasteful, neutral but contrasting colour palate, and featuring a dramatic curved staircase this is a very well designed and executed home.
“It offers distinct spaces for privacy while also providing a large open plan modern kitchen, dining and living area for family time and entertaining. This is a stunning display of building skill, creating a magnificent home by the sea.”
Mr Grey says there is a number of business advantages involved in taking part and succeeding in House of the Year.
“Winning a title at House of the Year is so beneficial for showing future clients what you can do. I think it’s very likely to bring in new business for us.
“I’d definitely recommend entering the competition to any builder. Knowing where you stand in the industry is crucial, and the recognition that comes with a win 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.
