Housing & Construction Awards 2021 Excellence in Building Far North Queensland

OF THE YEAR

Verri's Port

WINNERS

of

OF THE YEAR

Ideas Lab, by BESIX Watpac

BUILDING $5M - $50M

Work Spaces by

AWARD

Constructions

Hampton Design, by KCA Constructions

STAR

Howe, of Howe Building

Proudly sponsored by

21

OF THE YEAR

Marino, of Matt Greenwood Constructions

IN BUILDING

Cherelle Langtree

TRADE CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR Touchstone Tiling Services

TOURISM & LEISURE FACILITIES UP TO $10 M Cairns Esplanade Dining Precinct by Field Construct

INDIVIDUAL HOME $950K - $1.25M Crocker Residence by Cairns Quality Homes

HOME RENOVATION/REMODELLING PROJECT $575K - $1M Moonooba Creek Homestead by NQ Custom Build

22

23

HOME RENOVATION/REMODELLING

MEDIUM DENSITY UP TO 3 STOREYS, 2-5 DWELLINGS

Aria Port Douglas Villas by O'Farrell Building

24 INDIVIDUAL HOME $750K - $950K TOWNSEND by Ken Fox Homes

25

SLOPING SITES / SUSTAINABLE LIVING

Allaro Homes Cairns / MyStyle Homes

26 STEEL FRAME / INDIVIDUAL HOME $1.25-$2M QLD Kit Homes / Ash Moseley Homes

AWARD WINNERS in pictures

30

SOCIAL PHOTOS Photos from the awards evening

of

Builders

by Nathan Verri

MANAGER'S

RESIDENTIAL BATHROOM

Constructions

PROJECT OVER $1M Hussar Residence by Boscon Constructions

Builders rise to the challenge

"2021 was hailed as the year we’d say goodbye to COVID-19, leaving all the stress and drama wrought by the pandemic behind us."

of work, with our eyes firmly fixed on the long game for both the residential and commercial sectors.

Since the pandemic first sank its teeth in, our members have excelled in the face of adversity and are continuing to amaze us with their never-say-die attitude. That spirit of determination and exceptional quality of workmanship they’re renowned for provided the inspiration for our 2021 Housing & Construction Awards program – Built to rise above.

It is with great honour that I welcome you to the 2021 Far North Queensland Awards winners’ magazine.

Our esteemed judges were thrilled to be able to visit hundreds of amazing projects this year. Cementing the sterling reputation of the awards, this year’s field once again surprised and delighted with the calibre, the superb finishes and degree of difficulty in construction. As always, the judges were on the lookout for external appeal, siting and aspect as well as amenities and aesthetics, not the styling or interior design.

projects like high-rises, health, retail, industrial or community facilities and beyond, there’s a category for everyone to showcase their work and be celebrated. The efforts of individuals are also an important focus, from apprentices, women doing great things in the industry and builders showing the promise of a long and exciting future ahead.

No matter whether our entrants take an award away or not, they’re in esteemed company and a valued part of why Master Builders are so widely trusted and respected.

Every Master Builders member is like family, and we pride ourselves on always having their back, whether that means being there in times of need or celebrating their achievements. With our membership base surging close to 9000 and growing daily, our experts are dedicated to helping continue to grow and future-proof businesses big and small who deliver exceptional craftsmanship and service to their customers. It’s our honour and privilege to be a part of their success.

As the year has progressed though, it’s become clear the challenges are far from over. While the demand on our industry is a first-class problem to have, the resulting trade and materials shortages and skyrocketing prices haven’t made things easy on anyone. As always, we’re continuing to lobby hard for our members and their customers when it comes to easing the pressure around these issues, as well as detangling red tape and ensuring there’s a visible pipeline

The judges’ comments reflect this, with accolades such as “very unique,” “seamless,” “excellent use of materials,” “clean finishes,” “difficult site” and “great level of detail” are all consistent.

For more than three decades, our awards program has been and remains the pinnacle aspired to by our members across their careers. Whether they build houses or revel in renovations, are a specialised tradie or work on big commercial

If you are considering building your dream home or diving in to that long-planned renovation, please consider this a showcase of the incredible work that can be achieved when you choose a Master Builder. Get in touch with one of the award winners featured here directly or use our Find a Master Builder search at www.mbqld.com.au.

Thank you for supporting the 2021 Housing & Construction Awards program.

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House of the Year

“The attention to detail on this project is exceptional as is the level of finish,” said the judges.

The Pawlowski Residence is a two-storey, six-bedroom home on an 871sq m block features a home cinema with surround sound, gymnasium and multiple indoor and outdoor living areas on both levels, to name just some of its stunning features. Safety and comfort are ensured with fully automated, customised home audio, security and smart technology throughout the entire home.

“It’s a fabulous example of how combining distinctive raw materials, great architecture and the latest building technology can produce an exceptional home,” the judges said.

“It’s a home that is expansive and warm with features that are both impressive and functional.

“The use of stone, timber and other natural materials all contribute to centre the house and provide its essence. Internal balconies create functional living spaces that allow the home to meet multi-generational family needs without compromising on privacy.”

The home, located within the prestigious gated community of the Mirage Resort that has access to the beach walkway, and also won the Individual Home over $2 million award, the Best Residential Kitchen accolade and the Best Residential Swimming Pool title.

Builder Nathan Verri has been in the industry since 2003 when he started his apprenticeship with his uncle Dennis Verri, who has been a well-known figure in the building industry for 40 years. It’s not the first time Nathan has been in the winners’ circle, having been a multiple Master Builders award winner previously.

“It’s just great to be recognised amongst your peers for setting a benchmark,” Nathan said. “There’s a lot more to it than just me. A lot of people such as trade contractors and suppliers put a lot of hard work into it.”

detail in every aspect of the home including timber ceilings, extensive stonework and full automation on all electrical aspects such as blinds, cameras etc.”

Mr Verri, who has won a Master Builders best Individual Home award eight times previously as well as the 2017 House of the Year, started his business in 2007 after gaining his apprenticeship from his uncle Dennis.

The Pawlowski Residence was designed to maximise the 871sqm block, surrounding breezes and leafy backdrop.

“It’s an impressive and worthy winner,” the judges added.

Among its other outstanding features are glass balustrades, expansive atrium, steel-spun staircase, automated blinds throughout, fully irrigated landscaping on both top and bottom levels and concealed air-conditioning throughout, to name just a handful of its special additions.

“It has an amazing vast open-living space with a mezzaninestyle upper floor with a walkway to the perimeter looking down on to the kitchen,” the judges said. “There is attention to

Not only did builder Nathan Verri’s Mirage Port Douglas beachfront home take home the prestigious House of the Year Award at the recent FNQ Master Builders Housing & Construction Awards, he also won three other distinguished Master Builders awards for the same home.

“The use of stone, timber and other natural materials all contribute to centre the house and provide its essence."

Best residential kitchen/swimming pool

“The kitchen is a real centrepiece,” said builder Nathan Verri. “It looks awesome and is a great asset. It’s really functional and useable as well, which is highly important as it’s the centre hub of the home.”

It features 2pac and timber veneer panelling, all cupboards and doors are push cabinets (touch to open) and the knock-toopen dishwasher is accessible by knocking on the benchtop. The benchtops, described as a “showstopper” by Nathan, are made from a new Caesarstone called Excava, which is durable, scratch resistant, heat resistant and stain resistant.

It includes a scullery, which is a complete kitchen in itself with a dishwasher, fridge, cabinets, sinks and wine fridges.

The design was created by Galvin Group in Adelaide (where the owners live) and the kitchen cabinetry was completed by M&R Kitchens, an award-winning Cairns company.

The interior kitchen opens up to an al fresco kitchen next to the pool area that includes a pizza oven, beer fridges, ice machines and a barbecue.

The massive 11m x 6m pool, which includes a 5m wide by 3m high sheer-descent waterfall on one end, is completely covered in mosaic tiles. It’s a self-cleaning pool that is operated by the overall home automation system. It is also

heated with an industrial-size heater that can reach as high as 36 degrees.

“It’s also fully furnished with in-pool furniture (chairs and tables),” Nathan added. “There is a heap of speciality LED lighting that shines down from the coping (the protective top tile on the pool that overhangs) on to the water in different colours. “

“There’s no doubt about how awesome the pool is.”

As well as winning House of the Year, this sensational Port Douglas home also won the Best Residential Kitchen and Best Residential Swimming Pool awards.

Winners 2021

Major Awards

President's Award

KCA Constructions FNQ

The Hampton Design, Bentley Park

Project of the Year

Watpac Construction Pty Ltd T/a BESIX Watpac

The Ideas Lab, James Cook University Cairns, Smithfield House of the Year

Nathan Verri Pty Ltd

Pawlowski Residence, Port Douglas Construction

Health Facilities up to $20 million

Hansen Yuncken Pty Ltd

Cairns South Health Facility, Edmonton

Education Facilities up to $10 million

Watpac Construction Pty Ltd T/a BESIX Watpac

The Ideas Lab, James Cook University Cairns, Smithfield

Community Service Facilities

Tomkins Commercial & Industrial Builders Pty Ltd

T/a Tomkins Commercial Home Consortium, Cairns

Retail Facilities over $5 million

Tomkins Commercial & Industrial Builders Pty Ltd

T/a Tomkins Commercial Home Consortium, Cairns

Tourism and Leisure Facilities up to $10 million Richard Field Constructions Pty Ltd T/a Field Construct

Cairns Esplanade Dining Precinct, Cairns North

Tourism and Leisure Facilities over $10 million Bryant Building Contractors Pty Ltd Esplanade Central Oaks Hotel, Cairns

Commercial Building from $5 million up to $50 million Vis Constructions Pty Ltd Art Work Spaces, Cairns

Community Accommodation for Aged Care and Nursing Homes

Total Construction Pty Limited

Kubirri Aged Care Centre, Mossman

Refurbishment/Renovation up to $750,000

Emmit Builders Pty Ltd

Hungry Jacks Westcourt Cairns, Cairns

Refurbishment/Renovation over $750,000 Vis Constructions Pty Ltd

Court House Refurbishment, Cairns

Housing

Home Renovation/Remodelling Project up to $275,000

Sherriff Contractors

James Residence, Port Douglas

Home Renovation/Remodelling Project from $275,000 up to $575,000

McIntosh Builders Pty Ltd Runnymede, Redlynch

Home Renovation/Remodelling Project from $575,000 up to $1 million

Swillville Pty Ltd T/a NQ Custom Build Moonooba Creek Homestead, Speewah

Home Renovation/Remodelling Project over $1 million Boscon Constructions Pty Ltd

Hussar Residence, Kanimbla

Display Home up to $250,000

James Langtree Builder

Gordonvale Display Home, Gordonvale

Individual Home up to $250,000

Matt Greenwood Constructions Pty Ltd 'MOOROOBOOL', Mooroobool

Individual Home from $250,000 up to $350,000

KCA Constructions FNQ

The Hampton Design, Bentley Park

Individual Home from $350,000 up to $450,000

MyStyle Homes (QLD) Pty Ltd

MyResort, Trinity Beach

Individual Home from $450,000 up to $550,000

Howe, Jesse Le T/a Howe Building

'TINAROO VIEWS', Tinaroo

Above: Individual Home from $1.25 million up to $2 million award winner 'Bluewater House', crafted by Ash Moseley Homes.

Master Builders congratulates this year's winners who have demonstrated excellence across a wide range of categories

Individual Home from $550,000 up to $650,000

Boscon Constructions Pty Ltd

Bronzewing Residence, Woree

Individual Home from $650,000 up to $750,000

Matt Greenwood Constructions Pty Ltd

'BELLMERE', Redlynch

Individual Home from $750,000 up to $950,000

Ken Fox Homes Pty Ltd

TOWNSEND, Wongaling Beach

Individual Home from $950,000 up to $1.25 million

Cairns Quality Homes

Crocker Residence, Park Ridge

Individual Home from $1.25 million up to $2 million

Moseley Holdings Pty Ltd

T/a Ash Moseley Homes

Bluewater House, Trinity Park

Individual Home over $2 million

Nathan Verri Pty Ltd

Pawlowski Residence, Port Douglas

Best Use of Sloping Sites

Allaro Homes Cairns Pty Ltd

Watchman Residence, Brinsmead

Best Use of Steel Frame Housing

NQ Sheds and Patios Pty Ltd

T/a QLD Kit Homes Pty Ltd

The Carrington Residence, Carrington

Medium Density up to 3 Storeys – 2 to 5 Dwellings

O'Farrell Building

Aria Port Douglas Villas, Port Douglas

Medium Density up to 3 storeys – over 5 Dwellings

Plos Constructions

Valle Vista Luxury Apartments, Redlynch

Excellence in Sustainable Living MyStyle Homes (QLD) Pty Ltd

MyFarmhouse, Ravenshoe

Specialty

Best Residential Bathroom Dove Constructions

The Jackson, Atherton

Best Residential Kitchen

Nathan Verri Pty Ltd

Pawlowski Residence, Port Douglas

Best Residential Swimming Pool

Nathan Verri Pty Ltd

Pawlowski Residence, Port Douglas

Below: the award-winning Art Work Spaces.

Individual

Commercial Trade Contractor of the Year

Touchstone Tiling Services (NQ) Pty Ltd

Art Work Spaces, Cairns

Apprentice of the Year

Nicholas Marino

Matt Greenwood Constructions Pty Ltd

Rising Star

Jesse Howe

Howe, Jesse Le T/a Howe Building

Women in Building

Renee Cherelle Langtree

James Langtree Builder PTY LTD

Below: Bronzewing Residence by Boscon Constructions.

Below: Crocker Residence by Cairns Quality Homes.

Project of the Year

Building the James Cook University (JCU) Ideas Lab was an extremely challenging building project due to the high degree of difficulty with the requirements for high-speed, state-of-the-art technology, advanced architecture and an innovative building design.

BESIX Watpac achieved that and more. The builders not only completed the project on time and within budget, it won the FNQ Master Builders Housing & Construction Awards esteemed Project of the Year award as well as the top Education Facilities over $10 million

“We were very excited to win these awards,” said BESIX Watpac northern area manager Wade Cummins. “We were also very thankful to JCU to let us construct this complex building.”

“In a year that has challenged us all... they have created a building that... also inspires them in their work.”

The JCU Ideas Lab provides JCU students, researchers and the broader community with practical pathways to develop as innovators and entrepreneurs. By leveraging their deep network of technology partners, JCU are aiming to develop and commercialise state-of-the-art technology. The aim is to create products and processes with real commercial application that can drive economic growth and diversity for northern Australia.

“The building combines state-of-the-art construction methods with innovative architecture and design resulting in an environment that engenders creativity and clearly supports original thinking,” the judges said.

Designed by Wilson Architects with support from local architects Clarke and Prince Architects, the project had a gross floor area of 3,546sqm, three facility floors, including a full height atrium with internal gardens, water features, a floating staircase plus glazing screened by both internal and external green walls.

Externally, 80 per cent of the façade features a PTFE mesh fabric façade that is used for audio-visual projection.

“External screening material imported from overseas was made to fit an angled 3D frame outside of the building,” the judging panel noted. “There was a high level of technology in the building as it is a computer lab as well as having offices and multi-purpose rooms. It had to be built while the rest of the university was still operational, making access difficult.”

The building was designed to meet the highest LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold environmental and sustainability standard. BESIX Watpac were able to meet these targets. Design features include a bioswale that filters the building’s stormwater and 60kW solar PV system on the roof that feeds into its energy requirements.

Sandra Harding, Vice Chancellor, James Cook University was very impressed.

“The architects, builders, landscapers, other trades and specialists and of course JCU staff have worked so hard to make this a special building,” Sandra said at the building’s official opening.

“In a year that has challenged us all at every corner, they have created a building that doesn’t just meet the needs of those who use it, it also inspires them in their work.”

JCU Ideas Lab, Cairns Qld

Commercial Building $5M to $50M and Renovation over $750,000

Working around an out-of-level existing old two-storey structure and trying to marry it into the new level three-storey development was a major challenge for Vis Constructions, which won the Commercial Building from $5-50m award for Art Work Spaces.

“It was definitely the most extravagant-looking building we’ve had a hand in and one of the more challenging ones,” said Vis Constructions project manager Grant Mulkearns. “It would not have been possible to build a project of this complexity and unique nature without teaming up with highly experienced subcontractors and fostering a great client/ builder relationship.

“It was extremely rewarding to be recognised by Master Builders for all of the hard work everyone put in.”

Site access was a major issue with two façades built to boundary and the front façade awning built over boundary, coordinating deliveries, while crane and concrete pump operations were an ever-evolving exercise in problem solving. The showpiece aluminium curtain had 300 individual panels of different sizes and patterns that had to go up in a specific sequence of offsets.

The project included many innovative designs and materials such as the 5m high green wall, which required waterproofing and structural detailing to hold several tonnes of water and plants. Complex fire rating requirements forced Vis Constructions to seek alternative solutions in achieving passive fire protection. Azzo Project Services equipped themselves with the plant, systems and training to become Cairns’ first local contractor to offer sprayed fendolite and vermiculite fire solutions.

“The client/builder relationship could only be described as exceptional and this was demonstrated by the harmony in which the numerous and complicated challenges were resolved to a win-win,” Grant added. “The same could be said for consultants, subcontractors, workers and local authorities. There was a sense of teamwork and knowing that something quite special was being created by the entire team.”

Vis Constructions, led by builder Keith Vis who has been in the industry since 1975, also won the Refurbishment/Renovation over $750,000 for its work on the historic Cairns Court House, which has seen a number of extension and repair works since

its original construction in 1919. The recent refurbishment has created a functional and multi-use art gallery, public gathering and entertainment space.

Due to the nature of the project, extensive input was required from Vis Constructions, Cairns Regional Council staff, Australian Heritage Specialists, Queensland Government’s Department of Environment and Science and local consultants.

Preserving the original heritage value and features was imperative to the project. Consulting between the design team and the subcontractors assisted in limiting damage to the original heritage fabric on many levels. An example of this

includes the use of wireless communication between light switches and luminaires — removing the need to chase walls for cable reticulation.

Retention of original doors required innovative hardware selections to meet an accepted level of compliance, relating to access and egress.

Rather than remove and replace original plasterboard ceilings and lose this history for ever, heritage plaster contractors were able to use the same traditional methods of horsehair and plaster to patch and repair as required.

Modern technology and skilled contractors enabled the facilitation of services to be seamlessly integrated into the building, to preserve the original attributes not afforded in 1920.

“It was a pleasure to be part of such a prestigious and important project for the Cairns Regional Council,” project manager James Vis said. “The resultant refurbishment will now stand for another 100 years.”

President’s Award

Being in the winners’ circle for the third year in a row was enough reason for KCA Constructions FNQ to celebrate taking home the Individual Home $250-$350K Award, but it was winning the prestigious President’s Award that was the icing on the cake.

“Winning the President’s Award was a massive surprise for us,” owner and builder Kane Alley. “It topped off the night for us for sure.”

The four-bedroom, two-bathroom home was custom designed by KCA and includes timber pavilion posts and a feature timber door at the entrance, glossy Mulgrave stone polished concrete floors and a custom-designed kitchen.

The kitchen has a grey mirror splashback, light timber cabinetry, overhead cupboards and a stylish white waterfall island bench. It also features a walk-in pantry with custombuilt shelving and state-of-the-art Italian-designed Smeg cooktop, oven, rangehood and dishwasher.

The home is perfectly suited to our outdoor tropical lifestyle with its corner sliding doors that open up on to the patio and the pool area that create an open-air feeling while embracing southerly breezes throughout the home.

“This boutique home creates a perfect indoor/outdoor living setting that is private and well thought out to service the needs of any growing family and has liveability at its heart,” the judging panel noted. “It is ideally situated at the end of a cul-de-sac, nestled against beautiful rainforest adjacent to

“We are nothing without our team of eight full-time employees, our suppliers and our contractors”

a seasonal creek. Its location creates a tranquil oasis that is reflected in the soothing design of the home.”

Another key aspect the clients wanted was to have the bedrooms placed close together to ensure their young children were in close proximity. All bedrooms are located at the rear of the house with a children’s bathroom and powder room also included.

The master bedroom has a large walk-in robe, plenty of storage, a Marilyn Monroe style dressing table and an ensuite that features a deluxe stone freestanding bathtub with views through a large glass window.

“We are nothing without our team of eight full-time employees, our suppliers and our contractors,” said Kane, who started KCA Constructions in 2013. “We also have an awesome relationship with Master Builders who help us with all aspects of the industry from small projects to big hurdles.”

Building innovative, quality houses, engineered to deliver lifetime lasting quality. We are passionate about our projects and choose to deliver nothing but the best.

We are a local family owned company, supplying Cairns and surrounding areas with quality build homes and renovations.

NEW HOMES

Whether it’s your first home, your dream home or investment, we will bring your visions to life, using your plan or ours.

EXTENSIONS & RENOVATIONS

Need more space, a new roof or is it time to give your home a face-lift? We can have those worn areas looking like new in no time.

Rising Star

Atherton Tablelands builder Jesse Howe, who started Howe Building in 2017 with his wife Tya, won the distinguished Rising Star award as well as taking out the Individual Home $450,000 up to $550,000 award.

It’s not the first time he has been in the winner’s circle, having won the Master Builders 2019 Best Home Renovation/ Remodelling Project $276,000 – $575,000 award, the first year he entered the awards. This project also won him the state award.

“We were very happy to win the Individual Home from $450,000 up to $550,000 award; winning the Rising Star was a bonus,” said Jesse, who credits all who worked on the home.

“We can’t build high-quality houses without the high-quality work of our subcontractors.”

The award-winning house, Tinaroo Views, was not your normal project, Jesse said.

“It’s quite a different custom build,” he said. “It has lots of angles and three different pitched roofs, so it’s quite different from the average home.”

Among the high-quality fittings and features in this spacious home with fabulous views of Lake Tinaroo is a double-sided fireplace that can be enjoyed from the media room and the lounge area.

The clients of the home lived in a shed on-site during the build. The owner wanted to be part of the entire process, something Jesse welcomed and easily accommodated. The client was updated throughout the event, resulting in a totally positive experience for him.

Jesse said the foundations of Howe Building began with his father Danny Howe of DJ & LM HOWE Builders (state awardwinning builders). While Danny is retired now, he is credited with teaching Jesse hard-working ethics and vast industry knowledge. He also taught Jesse to never cut corners, take pride in every task and never stop learning.

The Rising Star award celebrates emerging builders who demonstrate great workmanship and custom relations and contribute to the progression of the industry. “Jesse Howe demonstrates all of these qualities and more” the judges noted. “His impressive client testimonials attest to his ability to continually develop his skills for the betterment of those around him.”

“Jesse contributes positively to the Master Builders brand,” the judges continued. “If other new builders are able to follow his lead the future of building is looking good.”

“If other new builders are able to follow his lead the future of building is looking good.”

Best Residential Bathroom

Winning his first Master Builders award the first time he entered the awards program was extra sweet for builder Jonathon Dove and his team at Dove Constructions, who took home the Best Residential Bathroom award.

“We’re stoked,” said Jonathon, who had entered the house in the Individual Home $450,000 up to $550,000 category

“We’re really happy to win as some of the bathrooms we were up against were in $2m houses while we were on a pretty tight budget.”

The award-winning bathroom of the Atherton four-bedroom home, designed by EDR Building Designs in Atherton, stands out from other bathrooms in a number of ways.

“It’s a moody bathroom,” Jonathon said. “While many bathrooms are white with a feature tile, this project features dark charcoal 1200mmx600mm textured tiles. This has created a different feel to the bathroom instead of crisp, white, clean lines.”

Features include a wall-hung timber double-bowl vanity and timber and rope pendant lighting hanging over the freestanding bathtub. The plumbing is recessed into the wall, allowing for extra space for the vanity’s drawers.

Two mirrors over the vanity are built 20mm off the wall and feature LED strip lighting behind them, which also emphasises the texture of the tiles. Tucked in behind this wall is a spacious shower on one side and the toilet on the other.

Johnathon said credit for their win is shared with the tradespeople, subcontractors, designer and owners. He also credits Master Builders for their continued support.

“Master Builders always advocates for the industry,” he said. “It’s also good to have someone you can ring who knows a lot about the industry and can point you in the right direction when you need it.”

Displaying initiative, advanced skills, natural ability and a desire to keep learning are just some of the reasons why third-year apprentice Nicholas Marino was named Apprentice of the Year.

“Nicholas has the ability to retain knowledge and absorbs his training readily, applying learned skills to his day-to-day tasks,” said builder Matt Greenwood who put Nicholas forward for the award. “In fact, he is well advanced through his training program and has applied knowledge and skills closer to a fourth-year apprentice.”

Matt said the young apprentice is respectful of his superiors and is well respected by co-workers, clients and contractors.

Apprentice of the Year Individual Home $650,000-$750,000

“He is proactive in providing feedback or solutions to problems, and it has been noted that he has shown great leadership skills from early on,” he said. “He has strong attention-to-detail skills and is known for his ability to be shown a task and then complete from start to finish, performing said task with ease.”

“The definition of an apprentice is a person who works for another in order to learn a trade,” the judges said. “Nicholas Marino does this and so much more. Punctual, keen, smart, proactive and a willingness to learn were just some of the recommendations made by his references and make him a deserving recipient of the Apprentice of the Year award.”

Nicholas is known to be respectful of his superiors and is well respected by co-workers, clients and contractors.

“He listens well and follows directions as given,” Matt added. “He has the ability to retain knowledge and absorbs his training readily, applying learned skills to his day-to-day tasks. He is a keen worker, is always the first to site and gets straight to setting up equipment and having the site ready for start. In all the time that he has worked for us he has never had a sick day.”

Matt is a firm believer in having apprentices. “Somebody gave me a go once, and I think every builder should have at least one apprentice,” he said.

When Nicholas isn’t working, he enjoys spending time fishing and playing footy.

“It was really great to get recognised,” said owner Matt Greenwood. “For us, it’s good to be able to win for both an inexpensive build and also win the up to $750K. It shows we can compete with million-dollar builders as well as the lessexpensive ones.”

The $650-750K four-bedroom custom-built home in Redlynch was designed for family comfort and luxury. Outdoor spaces were given as much priority as indoor spaces. From the spacious open-plan living areas and beautifully appointed private spaces to the swimming pool, this home was built for easy family living.

With abundant space for entertaining, the home was built to ensure that there was a natural progression from indoor to outdoor areas via large glass sliding doors. The outdoor space has a fully-equipped meal area and is supported with servery windows to ensure easy access to kitchen.

Every detail was carefully considered in the living space - from the floor-to-ceiling tile feature wall through to the balance of grey tones in décor. The oversized master bedroom suite has a luxurious fully appointed ensuite and massive walk-in robe.

While the winner’s spotlight was on him as the builder, Matt was quick to credit his subcontractors.

“The tradesmen’s work was spot on, from the tiling through to the painting,” he said. “It was a really good quality build. Our tradesmen are our everything.”

The Individual Home up to $250,000 award-winner is a four-bedroom family home created with a strict budget. It features an open-plan living space, which flows off the dining room to the rear alfresco area. Other features include 3.3m raked ceilings in the living areas and white cabinetry, glass, splashback, Caesarstone benchtops and quality appliances in the kitchen. The master bedroom has a walk-in robe and ensuite that includes a double shower.

Matt Greenwood Constructions, which was established by Matt and his wife Sharyn in 2012, has won a Master Builders award every year since 2015.

“Master Builders is a good resource for us builders,” he said. “They keep you up to date with everything that’s going on in the industry. They keep you informed on everything.”

Not only did Matt Greenwood Constructions’ apprentice Nicholas Marino win the Apprentice of the Year award, the business also took home awards for the Individual Home of the Year $650-750K and the Individual Home up to $250K

“The tradesmen’s work was spot on, from the tiling through to the painting. It was a really good quality build...”

Women in Building

Playing an instrumental part in laying the foundations of what has become a successful small building company is what has propelled Renee Cherelle Langtree into the spotlight, winning the respected Women in Building award.

Starting the James Langtree Builder business with her husband in 2015, Renee’s passion for clients, her hands-on approach in all aspects of the business and her extra finishing touches have been contributing factors of the business’ success.

“Renee contributes greatly to James Langtree Builder, assisting in all aspects of the business from administration, client interactions and social media,” the judges said. “She has also carried out study to further assist her to work within the business.”

The win was a total surprise for Renee, who was nominated by her husband.

“I was very honoured,” she said. “It was so good, and the awards night was so much fun.”

James, who won the Rising Star award and Display Home $251,000-$350,000 at last year’s awards, also won the best Display Home up to $250,000 category this year.

“I owe so much to Renee,” he said. “It takes no time to discover Renee’s passion for clients, and the personal importance she places on the standard of finish on each and every home.”

The contribution women make to the building industry is a critical one and benefits the industry in a myriad of ways.

“This benefit is felt by James Langtree Builder where Renee Langtree plays a major role in the company’s ongoing success,” one judge said. “Her ability to multi-task, project manage, liaise, add value to clients, assist with design and selections, undertake contract administration, bookkeeping and site meetings make her a valuable asset to the business and the industry overall and make her a worthy winner of the Women in Building award.”

Family orientated at heart, Renee understands what a huge undertaking building a home is for all of their clients and acts as a second point of contact throughout each client’s construction.

“It’s so good to see our clients’ faces at the end of the building process,” said Renee, who presents clients with a welcome pack including flowers, chocolates and key ring when they hand over the house. “It’s so exciting when they get their keys, and we’re excited for them.”

Renee said being a member of Master Builders has helped her and James learn so much.

“They’re really supportive,” she said. “They are always there when you have questions. It’s really good to have that support and their knowledge.”

“Renee contributes greatly to James Langtree Builder, assisting in all aspects of the business from administration, client interactions and social media.”

Commercial Trade Contractor of the Year

Commercial Trade Contractor of the Year is a highly competitive category as it includes a range of different trades. Interior designers, painters and electricians are just some of the many contractors who are eligible to enter this category, which is why winning it is extra sweet.

For the second year in a row, Touchstone Tiling Services succeeded in taking home this accolade, thanks to the work completed on Art Work Spaces Cairns.

“Because the category is so broad, anyone who holds a Queensland Building and Construction license can apply for this category,” said Touchstone Tiling owner Rodney Daley, who has more than 20 years’ experience in the tiling industry and

whose team also contributed to JCU’s Ideas Lab, Project of the Year award winner. “We were thrilled to win it for the second straight year.

“It was a very technical project because we were using so many products inside and outside. There were eight different types of tiling products used, and I had eight to 10 tilers working on this project alongside myself.”

Hand-crafted yellow glass mosaic tiles on the splashbacks in the kitchen areas cut to precision, a large green 20x20ml glass mosaic on the outside of the building, 200x100m brickbond black tiles and gloss-black hexagon mosaic tiles in the amenities areas were just some of the unique tiling used inside

and outside of the building.

The top floor open-lounge area’s 5m high glass mosaic is the jewel in the crown for Touchstone Tiling. The striking mosaic wall design is hand crafted with blended sheet glass 20x20mm mosaic tiles laid on a 45-degree tilt. Using a utility knife to hand cut the tiles, two tilers as well as Rodney worked three days to install this unique piece of modern art.

“The tiling throughout Art Work Spaces isn’t just standard,” said Rodney, who credits his team and his wife Natsuki, who is business director, for the win. “Some of it is very artistic and some incorporate cutting-edge design. We are all very proud to have won this award.”

The new Cairns Esplanade Dining Precinct, which has been widely applauded for being a significant project that enhances the city’s appeal and liveability, won the Tourism and Leisure Facilities up to $10m.

The multi-million-dollar project, built by Field Construct, created an extensive engaged dining layout and features new contemporary awnings that offer better weather protection, an extended dining area, modified and gently curving road alignment, inviting vertical gardens, grassed mounds and extra footpaths to improve pedestrian connectivity.

The awning structure’s design integrates unique and custom finishes to create a uniform appearance throughout the precinct while providing each commercial dining operator with individuality.

“This high-profile project has presented a high-level number of tests throughout,” said Field Construct managing director and owner Richard Field. “Our collective (client and contractor) primary focus at all times was to always safely undertake a fast-track realisation program while maintaining a high-quality standard, minimising disruption delay and ultimately raising the bar for the Esplanade dining experience.”

The project also involved complete retention of pedestrian access and minimisation of disruption to commercial operators and traders throughout the project’s duration, and the adoption of stringent requirements for all materials and components to be non-flammable, to comply with public egress requirements of adjacent shops and accommodation.

It also included the implementation of uncompromising quality control to ensure a long lifespan of the facilities and awnings. Particular investigation was given to the selection of materials, their proximity to the ocean and inherent corrosion control and the separation of dissimilar metals throughout. Appropriate external finish materials were sourced, selected, documented and warranted for all paint and coatings systems throughout.

There were a number of challenges along the way.

“The long-term maintenance for public pedestrian and delivery access to the existing trading restaurants presented various challenges throughout construction,” Richard said about just some of the challenges faced. “However, we adopted a comprehensive stakeholder engagement and communication management plan prior to commencement and for the duration of the works, allowing us to work closely with the operators to enable ongoing trading.”

Richard, who is a well-established Cairns builder, had nothing but praise for his team who worked on the project.

“We had a strong group of people around us who did such an incredible job,” he said. ‘It really did come down to the cohesive group of consultants, architect, client and tradespeople, and we really do respect them and thank them.”

Individual Home $950,000 to $1.25M

The Crocker Residence, winner of the Individual Home $950,000-$1.25m award, was designed and built to maximise spectacular views of the city and Trinity Inlet.

The three-level home located on the ridge of the mountain at The Peak, Park Ridge, in Brinsmead, has a number of striking features. A large open-plan kitchen, dining room and lounge overlooks the infinity pool, and the home features two doublesize garages which can be used for four cars or one of the double garages can act as a workshop.

“The home was architecturally designed to fit the shape of the

block,” said builder Phillip Terranova of Cairns Quality Homes.

“It was a challenging build because it was built on the side of the hill, so we had to work in with the slope of the property and we had rocks to worry about. It was constructed out of steel, so there was a lot of steel used in the fabrication of the building as well as a lot of glass.

“It has a beautiful infinity pool that overhangs the back area, and the interior is a very nice open-plan four-bedroom home.”

The main bedroom and study are separate from the living areas, and there are exceptional views of Trinity Inlet from all rooms of

the house including the bedrooms and the outdoor entertaining areas. The home also features large solar power units.

“Energy efficiency is playing an ever-more important role in the way we build homes,” Phillip said. “We ensure we adopt the best and most energy-efficient practices in every home we build.”

Cairns Quality Homes has been a member of the FNQ Master Builders for two decades.

“It’s a really good organisation to be part of,” Phillip added. “You get great support from them any time you need it.”

Home Renovation $575,000 to $1M

Transforming and extending a farmhouse built in the late 1880s into a modern home in Speewah propelled NQ Custom Build into the limelight where the local business won the Home Renovation $575,000 to $1m award at the FNQ Master Builders 2021 awards ceremony.

It was the first time NQ Custom Build owner/builder Mal House, who has been in the industry for 30 years, entered the Master Builders awards, which made the win extra sweet.

“It was really great to get acknowledged,” he said. “It was good for all of our team involved.”

The home, on 150 acres, was an original pioneer’s homestead that had three bedrooms, one bathroom, kitchen and a small back veranda. The house was demolished back to a skeleton

wall and roof frame. The 100mm floor was out of level and had to be levelled and strengthened with new footings, bearers and joists.

The external frame and roof were fully rebuilt and extended with a new 3m veranda wrapped all around the house. It also incorporates a breakfast bar that was extended a further 1.5m towards a permanent running creek.

The renovation included tongue-and-groove Kwila wood floors with matte finish, windows and doors made from New Guinea Rosewood and stainless-steel wire balustrade railing. All the bedroom ceilings were changed to cathedral ceilings with walls and ceilings lined with Pine VJ timber.

While the new country-style kitchen has traditional-style

porcelain sink and tapware, it was also modernised with servery window, granite benchtops, wine fridge and island bench.

The bathroom was themed in a bygone era with stand-alone bathtub and tessellated tiled floors but also had traditional tapware.

Also included in the renovation were the installation of full airconditioning throughout the house, an upgrade to the laundry area and the inclusion of an outdoor shower.

“We basically stripped the home back to bare to have a starting point to move forward,” added Mal. “It was like building a new house.”

Medium Density up to 3 Storeys, 2 to 5 Dwellings

Multi-award-winning builder O’Farrell Building has added another honour to its list of awards, winning the Medium Density up to 3 Storeys — 2 to 5 dwellings category for a luxury holiday accommodation in Port Douglas.

“It’s very rewarding to win a Master Builders award,” said O’Farrell Building owner Michael O’Farrell who has won many regional and state awards. “It’s a compliment to everyone who worked on the job.”

The luxurious up-market accommodation, called Aria Port Douglas Villas, consists of three four-bedroom, four-bathroom (each with their own ensuite) accommodation. The two-storey villas feature their own private pools, courtyards, barbecues in an outdoor entertainment area and kitchens complete with

Smeg appliances and a butler’s pantry.

The project consisted of a fair amount of off-form concrete work including poured concrete walls, concrete pillars and polished concrete floors.

“Another striking feature inside is a flowing timber staircase with a frameless glass balustrade coming out of the poured concrete wall,” said Michael, who has been in the building industry for 40 years. “In addition, we used Queensland maple extensively for the inside finishing timbers.”

Other features of the villas include security gates, lock-up garages, a stone bathtub in one of the bathrooms and upstairs loft areas.

O’Farrell Building is a family-owned, fourth-generation company that has been a part of the Cairns, Port Douglas and North Queensland landscape for more than 40 years and specialises in the construction of architecturally designed homes and custom commercial properties.

Michael said the support builders receive from Master Builders should not be underestimated.

“If you ever need advice, they are there, and you get a lot of support from them,” he said. “They’re always up to date with changes in the industry and provide us with all that up-to-date information. You really can’t afford not to be a Master Builders member.”

Home Remodelling/ Renovation project over $1 million and Individual Home from $550,000 to $650,000

It was first-time lucky for Boscon Construction, winner of two FNQ Master Builders awards — the Home Renovation/ Remodelling Project over $1m and the Individual Home from $550,000 to $650,000.

“It was the first time we entered the Master Builders awards,” Boscon managing director Kyne Boscarini said. “We put two entries in and won two awards, which was fantastic.

“It’s always exciting to win an award. It means you have a great team around you who put in the hard work. It’s not a oneperson job; it’s the whole team.”

The million-dollar renovation of the Hussar Residence in Kanimbla was basically a complete strip of the existing block house into a dream transformation. The only aspects of the original house kept in the renovation were the pool, some walls and some roof trusses.

“We pretty much started again,” Kyne said.

An expansive glass folding wall and door system partnered with the patio opening roof system to optimise the use of natural airflow and created endless panoramic views. The patio also features a large television that comes out of the patio ceiling when required.

The entertainer’s kitchen has been described as having a perfect balance between functionality and aesthetic appeal. The residence has full home automation, allowing the control of everyday living through Smart Home Control.

The Bronzewing Residence — winner of Individual Home $550,000 to $650,000 — is split across two levels, and is an elegant yet versatile home. The Woree residence includes an

open-plan layout with multiple living areas, a generous-size media room and a lavish alfresco space. The luminous galley kitchen features a hidden butler’s pantry, a glass splashback, state-of-the-art appliances and attractive feature lighting.

Winning two awards was very exciting for Kyne Boscarini, who said he was sorry to miss out on attending the awards ceremony.

Master your dream project

If there are any positives to come out of the global pandemic, the focus and value we place on ‘home’ is undoubtedly one of them.

Over the last 12 months, a record number of so-called COVID migrants, largely from New South Wales and Victoria, made the decision to pack up their lives and make Queensland home. (What’s not to love?) Government stimulus such as the HomeBuilder grant helped boost the industry at a critical time, putting the great Australian dream of a new home within reach.

Many in the sunshine state have also opted to give their homes a makeover, with the ABS counting over $255 million worth of renovation work approved in the first quarter of 2021 alone. With building or renovating your home one of the biggest,

most exciting investments you’ll ever make, choosing a builder you can trust should be top of the list in the decision-making process.

While it might seem hard to know where to start, choosing a Master Builder is a good way to give you peace of mind that you’ll be working with a quality, trusted, and properly licensed contractor who will deliver to the highest standard.

With our members completing 80 per cent of building work in Queensland, you’ll find one close by, no matter where you are.

The added benefit of using a Master Builder is that if you find yourself in a bind during the complex building process, our in-house team of experts are ready to help, and can guide you towards reaching a positive outcome.

We’ve also taken the hard work and stress out of your search with our online Find a Master Builder search. By entering a few simple details into this free and easy-to-use tool on the homepage of our website, you can find a list of trusted local builders to select from, tailored to your needs.

Building new? Check out the beautiful array of homes, crafted by Queensland’s leading builders, at our display villages. From luxury acreage living to coastal stunners, there’s something for everyone.

There’s nothing quite like walking through a display home to ignite your imagination, and our experts are always on hand to help you find your perfect new home or showcase the latest trends to inspire your next renovation.

Take the stress out of your dream project. Visit mbqld.com.au or call our team on 1300 30 50 10 today.

“It’s always exciting to win an award. It means you have a great team around you...”

Individual Home $750,000 to $950,000

A two-storey, four-bedroom residence designed to capture the best of beachfront living at Wongaling Beach was recognised as being the best Individual Home $750,000-$950,000

TOWNSEND, built by Ken Fox Homes, is a beach-lover’s dream with views of the Coral Coast and Dunk Island. It was positioned to take full advantage of the scenic views from all locations. A full-length veranda also gives the owners fabulous views of the coast as well as the pool area.

“It’s a very open home from the front to the back,” said Anita Morton from Ken Fox Homes. “It was such a nice feeling to win the award. We love building beautiful homes, and it’s nice to hand them over to our clients when they’re complete.”

Some of its special features include vinyl plank flooring, which is a sustainable product that reduces the need for continual upkeep. Aluminium slat feature walls have been used throughout to maximise airflow and natural light.

The home has a front timber feature 2.4m high door that opens into the vestibule. A large pane of double glass louvres above the door combined with expansive ceilings allow for maximum airflow throughout the home.

The first level has an open-plan living area, stacker glass sliding doors, a large sewing/craft room with a powder room as well as a laundry room.

Two bedrooms, including the master, are on the second level. The master bedroom features a covered veranda, large ensuite, walk-in robe and a well-appointed office space.

A second mini home (pod) is situated near the rear veranda. It consists of a well-appointed kitchenette, living area, bathroom

and two bedrooms. It also has high ceilings to maximise airflow and natural light.

Owners Joanne and Roger Townsend were living in Cooktown while the home they designed with an architect was being built.

“We travelled from Cooktown about every three weeks to check on the progress, and David Leahy (project manager) always accommodated us in his schedule to meet us and discuss updates and time frames,” they said. “This open communication became even more important when Cooktown and the Cape were in COVID lockdown which continued longer than it did for the rest of the state.

“David continually checked that we were aware of the progress and took the time to explain what was happening or to answer our endless questions.”

Ken Fox Homes, which was established in 1986, has won in excess of 40 industry awards including three state awards. “The final handover from David and Anita with flowers, wine and champagne just topped off a rewarding building experience for us,” the owners added.

"We love building beautiful homes, and it’s nice to hand them over to our clients when they’re complete.”

Best Use of Sloping Sites

Building a home on the side of a mountain is no easy task. Ensuring safe access for equipment and tradesmen while adhering to strict building requirements created numerous onsite hurdles for Allaro Homes, which won the Best Use of Sloping Sites award for its Park Ridge Estate home in Brinsmead.

“There were a lot of challenges involved,” said Allaro’s designer Steve Meers. “Our supervisors deserve a lot of credit. They managed the logistics of how it was going to be built on a sloping site while ensuring safe access to vehicles like trucks and cranes.”

The three-level custom-built home, which is situated on a large block just under 1800sq m, has breathtaking views of the city and Trinity Inlet on every level.

The first level is a large entertaining area, complete with rumpus room and built-in bar, that opens up to a large outdoor area, a stunning infinity pool and spa through large bifold doors.

The second level has direct street access through a large double lock-up garage, guest parking and impressive entrance. It has three large bedrooms and a home office with sound proofing. The master bedroom is found via a suspended walkway over a central void and has its own balcony and a spacious double ensuite with a freestanding bathtub and walkin robe.

The third level includes an open-plan family lounge room, designer kitchen and dining area plus a cantilevered living room to relax in and enjoy the unabated views to the city and coastline.

Excellence in Sustainable Living/Individual Home $350-450K

Winning awards is not unusual for MyStyle Homes, which won the Excellence in Sustainable Living award for the fifth straight year as well as the Individual Home from $350,000 up to $450,000 for another project.

“Sustainable living is something we’re very passionate about,” said MyStyle Homes owner/builder Grant Hartwig. “It was great to receive this accolade again this year.”

MyStyle, which has won more than 70 industry awards including three national titles, is proud to lead by example to show sustainable housing is affordable and beneficial.

“We always try to be on the cutting edge with any new products out there,” Grant said. “Most have been tested already, and sometimes we have our own ideas that we incorporate.”

Sustainability and environmentally-friendly principles are put into practice in every detail of the entire home, which was designed by Heather Ghidella. Some of its features include cutting-edge automation systems, extensive use of louvres, strategically created breezeways inside, triple insulated roofing and recycled plastic decking outside.

The builders utilised principles of passive solar design, thermal mass and lightweight construction materials to create

“It’s a magnificent house,” Mr Meers added. “The views are quite unreal.”

Allaro Homes, builders of custom-design homes and past winners of Master Builders awards, has a solid reputation in the industry. Director Wayne Cavallaro’s father and grandfather were highly respected in the industry, and together the family has 130 years of industry experience.

“It’s very much a family business,” said business manager and Wayne’s wife Jenny Cavallaro. “Two of our sons are involved in the business and some of the wives as well. Everyone here is part of the family whether they’re actually family or not.”

a healthier and more comfortable home. Walls and a light coloured roof help reduce the heat absorption and ventilation of the roof space, which ensures the home remains cooler. Materials, finishes and products on the two-storey home were selected for the inclusion of low-allergen or non-toxic material.

“The home is very remote and had bore water only to use, so we had to put on a special water filtration system, which was a pretty complex and intense system,” Grant said. “This was to ensure the owners could drink the water and could use it on every appliance otherwise they’d void all their appliance warranties.”

The upstairs living area features directional internal wall plantation shutters to promote uninterrupted cross flow of prevailing breezes. It also uses solar panels with the latest Tesla inverter and battery storage system and has LED globes throughout.

MyResort, which won best Individual Home from $350,000 up to $450,000 is a four-bedroom, two-bathroom home, also designed by Heather Ghidella. Key features include a floor-toceiling multi-fold door opening up the lounge to the outdoor area and the pool. The master ensuite has twin overhead shower roses and a freestanding bathtub.

The owner’s first requirement was for the house be elevated to take advantage of the home’s location, so the building pad was raised approximately 950mm above the existing sloping ground to avoid any possibility of flooding as well as to provide a more level approach for vehicle access to the garage and a dedicated hard deck area beside the garage.

“The clients worked closely with Heather throughout the process,” Grant said. “They were over the moon that the house won an award.”

Best Use of Steel Frame Housing

Building a long-lasting, sturdy home is something NQ Sheds and Patios knows very well, having won Best Use of Steel Frame Housing twice in three years.

“There are many advantages to building a steel frame home,” said NQ Sheds and Patios director Luke Jager. “It’s stronger than timber, doesn’t rot and you don’t have to worry about termites or borers. It’s also less expensive to build than your regular block home and is fully cyclone rated because it’s a solid construction.”

The Carrington Residence, on a private block in Atherton, is the two-bedroom, architecturally designed home that put NQ Sheds and Patios into the limelight.

The home has steel battens 120mm wide with flexible joins that had to be installed to prevent the cladding from cracking. This product comes finished (no painting required) so all the joins and screws needed to line up perfectly, leaving no room for error.

Luke said steel homes are cooler in the summer than a typical block home, saving clients money in cooling expense, and they also have a faster build time, enabling customers to save even more money.

He added that wall and roof frames made from steel are precision engineered to be dimensionally accurate, and he explained they won’t shrink, twist or warp, reducing the likelihood of problems such as cracking cornices, jamming doors, sticking windows or wavy rooflines.

NQ Sheds and Patios give a 25-year warranty on their steel components, but Luke said that in his two decades of building steel homes he hasn’t come across one issue yet and believes they can “last forever.”

Being part of a large buying group for steel buildings means the local business can pass along the highest quality steel products at the best possible price.

“This is the second time we have received this award in three years, and we would like to give a big thank you to our team of contractors and employees,” he said. “It simply would not have been possible without them.”

Individual Home $1.25M to $2M

While there were many challenges for Ash Moseley Homes in building a three-level residence on a compact 500sq m block, they were worth the effort as the house won the prestigious Individual Home from $1.25 million up to $2 million award.

The five-bedroom, three-bathroom mansion, Bluewater House at Marina Quay Bluewater, was designed by bàlay Vandyke Building Designs to reflect a coastal-style home.

The skillion roofline with ply-lined eaves balances with the angular design of the exterior with its crisp grey-and-white painted coastal tones and cool blue glazing.

Internally the coastal elements are repeated with light oak timber-slatted features, light-grey polished porcelain floor tiles, large 1200x600mm white porcelain wall tiles in all wet areas and stunning cabinetry.

The kitchen, with views of the waterfront, is an open-galley style. That style continues through to the impressive outdoor kitchen, which is complete with fridge, barbecue and sink facilities. The lounge and spacious balconies are accessed via large stacking sliding glass doors hidden within the pocket cavities in the external walls.

The pool and landscaped areas mimic a coastal vibe with a hint of pale blue and aquamarine, a combination of glass mosaic tiles, a feature waterfall wall and cantilevered concrete slab pool daybed complete with a mattress.

“The daybed was the brainchild of the owners,” said Michelle Moseley, who co-owns the business with her husband Ash. “They wanted a daybed, but they wanted to lever it over the pool, so we built a suspended slab to accommodate it.

“We hadn’t built a daybed on a suspended slab before; it was innovative and worked out really well. It really suits the design of the pool.”

The home also includes high-vaulted ceilings throughout the dining and kitchen areas, a separate gymnasium overlooking the waterfront, private balconies from two bedrooms and open-plan living areas opening up to the pool and canal.

“The home is very, very tastefully furnished by the owner,” Michelle said. “Full credit to them.”

The residence also features a 5m high x1.8m wide entry door, a mono-stringer staircase with light-toned solid timber treads and a separate office/guest bedroom.

“It’s always special to win an award especially when it’s such a lovely calibre of home,” Michelle added. “It’s nice to be rewarded for all the effort that goes into it not just by ourselves, but also by our team of carpenters, contractors and suppliers who deserve recognition as well.”

HOUSING & CONSTRUCTION AWARDS 2021 BUILT TO RISE ABOVE

Sharon Vella and Rebecca Ray.

Briony and Cameron Twittey.Tammy and Dante Sabbain.

Eric Latham and Carly Sutton.

At the Master Builders Awards Night are Sam Thomson, Steve Jarmey, Ryan and Janine Eck, Shaun Muddock, Michael Vicenzino and Shannon Grant.

At the Master Builders Awards Night are Billy and Adi Brayshaw, Jen and Josh Hiles, Mark Stewart and Pat Llordella. All pictures: Romy Bullerjahn

Lauren Constable, Maree Beavon and Amy Swift.

Victoria and Nathan Coe, Dion and Justine Trimmer.

Nadine and Grant Mulkearns.

Tya and Jesse Howe.

Lilian and Geoff Scorse.

Emma and Kane Alley.

Chelsea Mackay, Jye Denman and Brenden and Jane Sherriff.

Jesse Fewkes, Catalina Navarrete, Melissa Treishel and Shane Raso.

Julie and Nathan Verri.

Lauren Murdock and Brad Bell.

Rodney Byl, Di Willcocks, and Michael Kunze.

Robyn Van Rooye, Nic and Kylie Sturges and Col Keily.