After entering houses for new build and renovation awards since 1991, Avenue Construction from Palmerston North had won three previous Supreme Awards, although they had all been for renovations.
The team was ecstatic when winning its first Supreme Award for a new home at the Registered Master Builders Manawatu, Whanganui & Taranaki 2018 House of the Year.
The company was also awarded a Gold Award and Category win for the Resene New Home up to $450,000 award for its Palmerston North home, along with the Craftmanship Award and the Sustainability Award.
Avenue Construction’s Phil Round says the team was stunned when they heard they’d won the Supreme Award, especially as the home was entered in the lowest price category in the competition.
“We first entered the competition back in 1991, and we’ve entered a range of properties over the years,” Mr Round says.
“Winning a Supreme Award for a new home for the first time shows how the team’s hard work, dedication and attention to detail has paid off.”
Mr Round says every build has its share of challenges, and this project was no different.
“Because the house was on a flood plain, it meant there was a minimum overall height requirement.
“Also, due to the size of the central area of the house, there was a large amount of structural steel needed to support the area to ensure it was safe and secure.
“Maintaining the expectations of the client on the level of detail and finish of the house also meant we had to keep on top of the construction and design of the house.
“Having a client who was also the architect worked extremely well, as we worked together as a team to create this fantastic, finished result,” Mr Round says.
Judges said the winning House of the Year demonstrates that size does not matter when it comes to beauty and function. This smaller home won over the judges with its simple form, cladding and finishes.
“It has met the owner’s exacting construction detail and finish requirements with sustainable goals, all of which have been achieved under the tight budget,” they said.
“This has presented a family home at its best, and a model for the country’s affordable homes.
“Both the owner and Avenue Construction should be justly proud of their achievements.”
Mr Round is excited for the scope of work that winning the regional House of the Year award could bring for Avenue Construction.
“Winning awards for renovations and a new build really shows off our diversity, and will help broaden our range of clients and work for the future.”
House of the Year is made possible through the support of PlaceMakers, Master Build 10-year Guarantee, GIB, Nulook, CARTERS, Plumbing World, Resene and Bunnings Trade.
