After over a decade of entering the competition, Nigel Smith of Milestone Homes Canterbury (2012) Ltd was ecstatic to take out his first national category win at the Registered Master Builders 2016 House of the Year competition.
His Christchurch build was named the national category winner for the PlaceMakers New Home $400,000-$500,000.
Mr Smith says winning the award was a fantastic achievement for the team and a great reflection of their performance in the industry.
“I’ve been entering House of the Year competitions for more than 10 years, and this is the first time I’ve had a category win. It’s been a personal goal of mine so I was really ecstatic,” he says.
Mr Smith explains that while the biggest challenge of his Christchurch earthquake rebuild was maintaining a high level of quality across all aspects of the property, this also proved to be the most rewarding part.
“When you have clients that have been through the trauma of the earthquake and subsequent rebuild, taking their home all the way through to win a national award was a wonderful satisfaction,” he says.
“It was fantastic for us to showcase what is possible during the Canterbury rebuild, and demonstrate you can still maintain the highest quality in replacing people’s broken homes.
“We always strive to give our clients great value, and tick all of the boxes — strong architecture, great design and craftsmanship.”
Judges were impressed with the well-crafted simplistic design of the home, and praised the excellent expertise of the team involved.
“Using a simple palette of texture and colours, this immaculate and well-planned residence is designed to capture all day sun,” they said.
“The living areas are designed for relaxation, and installed with appliances for cost-efficient heating. Great indoor-outdoor flow encourages use of a stylish entertainment area and the large expanse of lawn.”
Mr Smith says winning the award has increased the company’s credibility and recognition in the industry.
“It really cements our place in the Canterbury market, which then has a flow-on effect for brand awareness on a national level,” he says.
Mr Smith praises the Registered Master Builders Association for the ongoing help and assistance provided to members, the recognition of quality amongst the community, and the opportunity to enter the House of the Year 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 Trade.
