Justin Green of Alteration Specialists says he was over the moon when he found out his house in Palmerston North was awarded the title of national winner in the Mitre 10 Renovation Award $250,000 – $500,000 category at the Registered Master Builders 2015 House of the Year competition.
Mr Green says he was extremely proud to win the category, which featured four other exceptional national finalists.
“We were very confident with the job we had produced heading into the finals, but we certainly weren’t expecting the win, so when our name was read out we were ecstatic,” he says.
Mr Green attributed the success of the renovation to the faultless integration of the fine detail of the existing house into the new extension — the end result was completely seamless.
“The extent we went to in order to retain the home’s character was a big part of the renovation, every detail was replicated. There was no stone left unturned,” he says.
Mr Green explained one of the biggest challenges was the hidden complexities of the renovation.
“There was a fair amount of steel portal work involved, which had very little tolerances and was probably the hardest part of the renovation.”
Judges were impressed with the transformation of the kitchen, dining and outdoor living areas.
“This house has been transformed from an inconspicuous 1930s bungalow to a paradise for the owners who love entertaining and outdoor living.
“The original galley kitchen has been transformed into a spacious kitchen with a central island bench, making the space truly the heart of the home.
“A pool-side lounging area with landscaped gardens makes for a style of outdoor living area that is unbeatable.”
Mr Green says winning the award has added real value to their company’s reputation.
“It definitely proves that you are a quality builder. There is no better way to be assessed on your work than to have a judge walk around and critique your work,” he says.
“Registered Masters Builders is the most recognised and trusted building organisation in New Zealand, hands down. House of the Year is definitely the biggest competition in our industry, and it’s a great way to showcase your ability.”
Although Alteration Specialists will not be entering the 2016 House of the Year awards, they are hopeful for an entry in the 2017 competition.
The Awards are made possible through the support of PlaceMakers, Master Build Services, GIB, Nulook, Future-Proof Building, Carters, Plumbing World, Resene, and Bunnings.
