Master Builders Association of NSW: Excellence in Housing Awards Annual 2020/2021 by Universal Media Co

ANNUAL

2020/2021

290

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2020/2021 Master Builders Association of NSW 52 Parramatta Road, Forest Lodge NSW 2037 P: 02 8586 3555 E: events@mbansw.asn.au Awards Administrators Susan Manning, Amanda Kelly Editor Danielle Townsend Designer Kate Atkinson Advertising Sales Graham Williams Tel: 0459 232 394 Advertising Production Co-ordinator Brendan Alder Associate Publisher Martin White Cover photo: Capital Construction & Refurbishing Pty Ltd All information and prices contained herein were correct at the time of writing. The Master Builders Association of NSW cannot accept any responsibility for omissions or errors. All plans, photographs, and details contained in this magazine are copyright. Anyone found breaking any of the aforementioned will be prosecuted. This magazine is printed on paper produced in a mill that meets Environmental Management System ISO14001.

Chairman/CEO Publisher Chief Financial Officer Associate Publisher Circulation Business Dev. Manager Creative Director

Prema Perera Janice Williams Vicky Mahadeva Emma Perera Mark McTaggart Kate Podger

Subscriptions and mail orders: 1300 303 414 Circulation enquiries to our Sydney head office (02) 9805 0399

The Excellence in Housing Awards Annual No.22 is published by Universal Magazines, Unit 5, 6-8 Byfield Street, North Ryde 2113. Phone: (02) 9805 0399, Fax: (02) 9805 0714. Melbourne office, Suite 3, Level 3, 10 Northumberland Street, South Melbourne Vic 3205 (03) 9694 6444, Fax: (03) 9699 7890. Printed in Singapore by Times Printers, www.timesprinters.com, distributed by Network Services, (02) 9282 8777. This book is copyright. Apart from any fair dealing for the purpose of private study, research, criticism or review as permitted under the Copyright Act, no part may be reproduced by any process without written permission. Enquiries should be addressed to the publishers. The publishers believe all the information supplied in this book to be correct at the time of printing. They are not, however, in a position to make a guarantee to this effect and accept no liability in the event of any information proving inaccurate. Prices, addresses and phone numbers were, after investigation, and to the best of our knowledge and belief, up to date at the time of printing, but they may change in some cases. It is not possible for the publishers to ensure that advertisements that appear in this publication comply with the Trade Practices Act, 1974. The responsibility must therefore be on the person, company or advertising agency submitting the advertisements for publication. While every endeavour has been made to ensure complete accuracy, the publishers cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. Please pass on or recycle this magazine * Recommended retail price ISSN 1443-0142 Copyright © Universal Magazines MMXXI ACN 003 026 944 www.universalmagazines.com.au

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Needless to say, this year produced very challenging conditions for the industry. In early 2020, without notice, our nation experienced the impact of COVID-19 in unimaginable ways. Our industry, however, responded extraordinarily well. The Federal Government deemed the industry an “essential service industry” and with a strong and concerted effort from the Master Builders movement, our industry stayed open, we worked safely and followed protocols decreed by the medical and health authorities. It was and is a great credit to the industry to have remained open for business during these unprecedented times. This year, with these extreme circumstances, the industry produced unbelievable outcomes. Turning to this year’s awards, a record number of residential building projects were entered into the industry’s most prestigious awards program, the MBA Excellence in Housing and Pool Awards. Our panel of judges faced the most extraordinary task of evaluating and selecting the very best projects from numerous categories, ranging from display and contract homes, to home units, house additions and renovations, energy efficiency and secondary dwellings. On behalf of the MBA, I congratulate all entrants and winners on the high standard of construction seen in so many projects, and during a most challenging time. I also wish to thank our generous sponsors and industry partners, without whose support these awards would not be possible. And of course, our dedicated judges who freely donate their time and expertise to examine, evaluate, deliberate, and make very difficult decisions when considering all entries received. Finally, congratulations to the Master Builder of the Year — Capital Construction & Refurbishing Pty Ltd, the Young Builder of the Year — Jake Kearns from Aspire Constructions, and the Display Home of the Year — Firstyle Homes. The MBA thanks its dedicated panel of judges and also the generous sponsors. Simon Pilcher President, Master Builders Association of NSW

CONTENTS President’s message, credits ............................ 4 Master Builder of the Year .............................. 10 Young Builder of the Year .............................. 16 Winners’ and finalists' list................................ 18 Awards feature ................................................. 19 MBA Code of Conduct ................................... 141

$8 million–$10 million ............................... 134 $10 million–$11 million ............................. 135 $11 million–$12 million ............................. 136 $12 million–$18 million ............................. 137 $18 million & over ..................................... 138

$4 million & over ....................................... 242 Restoration/Addition

Up to $2 million ........................................ 243 $2 million & over ....................................... 244 Adaptive Re-use

Town Houses or Villas/Dual Occupancy

Open price category ................................. 245

Up to $400,000 ........................................ 139 $400,001–$600,000 ................................. 142 $600,001 & over ...................................... 148

Special Purpose Housing Project

Home Units

Energy Efficiency Housing

Judging panel ................................................. 288 Sponsors ......................................................... 289 Entrants’ and Advertisers’ index ................. 290

Up to $400,000 ........................................ 151 $400,001–$600,000 ................................. 155 $600,001–$1 million ................................. 158 $1 million & over ....................................... 162

Up to $800,000 ........................................ 247 $800,001–$2 million ................................ 250 $2 million & over ...................................... 252

Display Homes

Home Unit Renovation

Open price category ................................. 254

Up to $250,000 .......................................... 20 $250,001–$300,000 ................................... 22 $300,001–$350,000 ................................... 28 $350,001–$400,000 ................................... 35 $400,001–$500,000 ................................... 44 $500,001–$600,000 ................................... 52 $600,001–$800,000 ................................... 56 $800,001 & over ........................................ 62

Up to $1 million ........................................ 165 $1 million & over ....................................... 167

Environmental Management Housing

Design & Construct — House

Up to $500,000 .......................................... 65 $500,001–$1 million ................................... 67 $1 million–$1.5 million ................................ 71 $1.5 million–$2 million ................................ 76 $2 million–$3 million ................................... 78 $3 million–$3.5 million ................................ 82 $3.5 million–$4 million ................................ 83 $4 million & over ......................................... 84 Contract Houses

Up to $500,000 .......................................... 87 $500,001–$650,000 ................................... 90 $650,001–$800,000 ................................... 93 $800,001–$1 million ................................... 97 $1 million–$1.5 million .............................. 101 $1.5 million–$2 million .............................. 106 $2 million–$2.5 million .............................. 113 $2.5 million–$3 million .............................. 119 $3 million–$4 million ................................. 120 $4 million–$5 million ................................. 124 $5 million–$7 million ................................. 130 $7 million–$8 million ................................. 133

Home Unit Renovation — External

Open price category ................................. 169 Granny Flats

Up to $100,000 ........................................ 170 $100,001–$150,000 ................................. 173 $150,001–$200,000 ................................. 176 $200,001 & over ...................................... 181 House Additions/Alterations/Renovations

Up to $250,000 ........................................ 186 $250,001–$350,000 ................................. 188 $350,001–$450,000 ................................. 192 $450,001–$550,000 ................................. 196 $550,001–$650,000 ................................. 199 $650,001–$700,000 ................................. 201 $700,001–$800,000 ................................. 204 $800,001–$900,000 ................................. 206 $900,001–$1 million ................................. 208 $1 million–$1.3 million ............................. 212 $1.3 million–$1.4 million .......................... 218 $1.4 million–$1.5 million .......................... 222 $1.5 million–$1.7 million .......................... 224 $1.7 million–$1.8 million .......................... 228 $1.8 million–$1.9 million .......................... 230 $1.9 million–$2 million ............................. 232 $2 million–$2.3 million ............................. 235 $2.3 million–$2.5 million .......................... 237 $2.5 million–$3 million ............................. 238 $3 million–$4 million ................................. 240

Open price category ................................. 246

Energy Efficiency — Medium Density

Up to $1 million ........................................ 255 $1 million & over ....................................... 257 Environmental Management — Medium Density

Open price category ................................. 259 Best Best Best Best Best Best

use use use use use use

of of of of of of

timber .......................................... 260 concrete ...................................... 261 steel ............................................. 262 glass ............................................ 263 bricks .......................................... 264 copper ......................................... 266

POOLS Traditional or Geometric Concrete Pools

Up to $50,000 .......................................... 267 $50,001–$100,000 ................................... 270 $100,001 & over ...................................... 274 Lap Pools

Open price category ................................. 278 Plunge Pools

Open price category ................................. 280 Renovations

Open price category ................................. 281 Spas/Portable Spas/Hot Tubs

Open price category ................................. 283 Commercial Pools

Open price category ................................. 285 Commercial Spas

Open price category ................................. 287

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Visit our display home Address: 7 Butler Avenue, Kellyville, NSW, 2155. Open 7 days. Phone: (02) 9836 2255 (construction) (02) 9629 5585 (sales) Email: mail@younghomes.com.au

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Young Homes have been building outstanding family homes for 68 years. During this time they have won many prestigious building awards. Whether you’re looking for a custom designed home, a knock down and rebuild, or one of our award winning designs, you’re guaranteed quality with Young Homes.

MASTER BUILDER OF THE YEAR

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

MASTER BUILDER OF THE YEAR

NO ROOM TO HIDE Located directly on top of a sand dune behind the basin at the northern end of Mona Vale Beach on a 1200m² block, the winning Basin Beach House project involved the construction of a new detached garage and single-level house with mezzanine master bedroom. The main house is a curved pavilion roof of bent and curved structural-steel hoops, a plywood ceiling and copper standing-seam roof. It forms a complex curve that flows in two directions asymmetrically to the floorplan below. There is no room to hide in this house — the roof structure is sited on exposed, structural offform concrete walls that form dividing walls for the spaces within the house’s ground floor. The detached garage has perimeter walls constructed entirely of 2m x 0.5m x 0.5m B-grade sandstone logs, with an off-form concrete roof and floor slabs. It is buried into the hillside and the sandstone retaining walls are located within 2m of the adjoining property boundary and that property’s garage complex, resulting in difficult temporary propping and shoring in the soft sand. Custom blackbutt timber windows set at 50 degrees form a gallery of windows along the complete southern elevation of the house and on two bays to the northern elevation. Custom-

built sliding timber doors enclose the space without timber frames; the head and bottom tracks are set into the surrounding structure, necessitating extreme precision for each of the structural elements that they close against. Overall, the biggest challenge faced on the project was that the architect allowed very little building tolerance within the design. B-grade sandstone blocks for the garage construction were set out to millimetre precision as they have steel reinforcement core holed through to allow them to act as a retaining wall. Every block was numbered, set out and marked prior to on-site drilling and assembly. The main house’s structural-steel frame was fabricated, fully erected and tested off site to ensure it could be installed on site to within millimetre accuracy as the architect would not allow structural grout between the concrete and steel connections. The site’s extreme coastal environment also meant no cutting and welding of structural steel on the site; a full 3D computer model of the complete structure was drawn up prior to fabrication to avoid this. The internal walls that divide the space were set out exactly to suit the width of the 130mm boards which did not allow for expansion and contraction from room

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

MASTER BUILDER OF THE YEAR

to room. The skill and knowledge of the carpenters was tested to introduce some form of movement control into the building. The treads of the stair to the mezzanine are supported by a structural timber wall only 76mm thick and are set out at 260mm wide to match the adjoining vertical timber boards. The complex curve of the main structural roof created challenges — both in the copper roofing above and the ceiling below. Standing seam sheets were individually hand cut as required to allow even spacing of the seams and compensate for the bi-directional curving of the roof. The plywood sheets that form the ceiling below were individually hand cut by the carpenters on site to create the even shiplap pattern that aligns to key grid lines. The ceiling sheets were delivered pre-finished and it took five carpenters wearing cotton gloves to press each sheet to the curve of the roof. The ceiling-to-glazing details and changing roof pitch to the north side meant a reversal of the standard building process was required. The finished ceiling was required to be installed before the highlight glass that sealed the building. The bespoke nature of the joinery and the integration of finishes to the structure of the house meant that some finished joinery items were installed as the building was closed up. The salt-laden environment and constant sand blowing through the house made protecting finished elements extremely challenging. The design of the house did not allow typical flashings or details to stop water

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

ingress; all timber door jambs were installed with a hidden weather bar routed into the concrete behind in place of traditional storm moulds. The fixed glazing to the ground floor was installed directly to the structural concrete against exposed brass weather bars cut directly into the concrete. The large amount of custom finishes meant that a lot of the finishing work on site was carried out using Capital Construction & Refurbishing’s own direct labour. The company’s own carpenters formed and poured all off-form concrete; including both structural works and non-structural benchtops. They installed all sliding doors and raked windows and also directly worked with all subcontractors on site to ensure work was carried out to the highest standards. This format allowed Capital Construction & Refurbishing to have control over the quality of finishes, ensuring both client and architect satisfaction. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: This job shows you cannot beat experience. The result of an unusual design brief, this complex and challenging project was taken on at a fixed price and proves the skill and talent of the builder. A wonderful job of which the builder can be very proud.

CAPITAL CONSTRUCTION & REFURBISHING PTY LTD

Tel: 9437 6222 Licence number: 24018C Design: Basin Beach House

BELLEVARDE CONSTRUCTIONS

Tel: 02 6295 2928 Licence number: 31493 Design: House Taurus

HORIZON

Tel: 9388 1050 Licence number: 50218C Design: Darling Point Residence

RE:FORM CONSTRUCTION

Tel: 0412 673 353 Licence number: 247955C Design: Birchgrove House

Unit 23, 6-8 Herbert Street, St. Leonards NSW 2065 02 9437 6222 | enquiries@capitalconstruct.com.au

capitalconstruct.com.au

YOUNG BUILDER OF THE YEAR

ASPIRING FOR GREATNESS The successful career of Jake Kearns is an inspirational story for any young builder who is looking to start out in the building industry, work hard and eventually run their own highly respected residential construction business. Founding director of Aspire Constructions, Jake left school after Year 10, aged 15, to pursue a carpentry apprenticeship with his dad, a local builder in Moorebank. Towards the end of his apprenticeship, another builder who Jake would occasionally labour for on high-rise residential builds saw Jake’s potential and asked him to come on board. Jake took this opportunity to grow and started work as a leading hand at 18. Following completion of his carpentry apprenticeship, Jake went straight into studying for his builder’s license and became a licensed builder by 21. His new boss, a very passionate member of the St George division of the Master Builders Association, spoke very highly of the association and introduced Jake to it. Jake then became site foreman for this company, running high-rise residential unit projects at 20. It was here that Jake learned how to run a job and work under high pressure while delivering projects on time and within budget. After marrying and having his first child, Jake’s dreams of becoming a builder on his own began to pull and at 25 he left his boss and the company who had taught him so much to embark on his dream of becoming a builder running his own residential building company. Aspire Constructions was then born — a big step to take, as Jake had a young family to support. Jake has been the sole director of Aspire Constructions since its creation in 2006.

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

Starting out with small local renovations, Jake’s reputation as an honest builder who will get the job done right slowly grew through word of mouth. Aspire has been a member of the Master Builders Association for almost 10 years, winning NSW awards, one South Coast region award, two National nominations and one National award from the association. Jake isn’t just passionate about building, but making sure his workmanship stands up to the highest standards that the Master Builders Association demands. He ensures that he always delivers projects that don’t just look good but are also of the highest quality. It is for this reason that Aspire has submitted projects in the awards every year since 2012 and will continue to do so, as it inspires Jake and the team to always do their best and give clients the best outcome possible. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: We were impressed to see a young builder take on such a complex project — a fixedpriced contract on a difficult site. He had to overcome challenging engineering problems, with the second storey constructed from off-form concrete supported on large cantilevered sections. There is extensive and particular detailing throughout the house, which he managed to bring together to complete a magnificent job. Excellent and impressive work!

JAKE KEARNS — ASPIRE CONSTRUCTIONS

Tel: 02 7903 0282 Licence number: 221063C Design: Kiama Bends

ADAM SOUTER — SOUTER BUILT PTY LTD

Tel: 0419 261 332 Licence number: 302909C Design: Hector Abrahams Architects/ The Cottage Photography: Mark Syke Photography ALEXANDER POLITANO — LEXPOL GROUP PTY LTD

Tel: 9415 6255 Licence number: 285057C Design: Mosman House JARROD DENNY — BUILD BY DESIGN PTY LTD

Tel: 0404 009 534 Licence number: 207183C

DISPLAY HOME OF THE YEAR

A FOREVER HOME The Norwood/Delta at Marsden Park required the Firstyle Homes’ design team to apply deliberate design adaptability to establish a home that offers the perception of grand living, specifically applicable to current lotsize controls. This approach created the Norwood, Firstyle Homes’ ‘forever home’. During the design phase, the in-house design team created multiple façade and floorplan variations within the Norwood collection, suited to all lifestyles and various lot sizes from 12m upwards. Reinforced by strong market desire and requests for flexible open-plan living, the displayed floorplan offers three spacious ground-floor living areas, four bedrooms, two first-floor living areas and a stunning under-roofline alfresco with optional pergola, which was added to showcase cohesive indoor-outdoor living. The ground floor includes a stunning kitchen, complete with a highly practical butler’s food prep workspace and ample storage in the walk-in pantry. Primarily, the Norwood’s ease of design adaptability suits multi-generational families. With a desirable first-floor open balcony room, it provides the luxury of separate living areas coupled with impressive social living areas.

The Homeworld Marsden Park site showcases the Norwood/Delta façade, highly coveted for its enduring, timeless street appeal. The façade expresses the current industry and market preference for mixed building materials, and the façade artfully demonstrates a blend of multiple materials and finishes. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: This new award was hotly contested. When assessing display homes, the judges particularly look for good design, exceptional attention to detail, value for money and how adaptable a home is to suit multiple-facing sites to maximise the aspect for the living areas in the home. The judges poured over the winners of the display home categories but

eventually decided on the Norwood/Delta by Firstyle Homes because this home amply satisfies the criteria. The Norwood suits a multi-generational family with its three spacious ground-floor living areas, four bedrooms and two bathrooms. The judges wish to congratulate Firstyle Homes on the Norwood/Delta and the other quality homes that it submitted in this year’s awards.

FIRSTYLE HOMES

Suite 6, Level 2, 138 Elizabeth Drive LIVERPOOL NSW 2170 Tel: 9731 9600 Licence number: 113412C Design: The Norwood with Delta façade

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS 2020–2021

WINNERS AND FINALISTS MASTER BUILDER OF THE YEAR Winner: Capital Construction & Refurbishing Pty Ltd Finalist: Bellevarde Constructions Finalist: Horizon Finalist: Re:Form Construction YOUNG BUILDER OF THE YEAR Winner: Jake Kearns — Aspire Constructions Finalist: Adam Souter — Souter Built Pty Ltd Finalist: Alexander Politano — Lexpol Group Pty Ltd Finalist: Jarrod Denny — Build By Design Pty Ltd DISPLAY HOME OF THE YEAR Winner: Firstyle Homes Display Homes Up to $250,000 Winner: Firstyle Homes Finalist: Thrive Homes $250,001–$300,000 Winner: Mojo Homes Finalist: Firstyle Homes Finalist: Eden Brae Homes $300,001–$350,000 Winner: Eden Brae Homes Finalist: Firstyle Homes Finalist: Masterton Homes Pty Ltd $350,001–$400,000 Winner: Firstyle Homes Finalist: Beechwood Homes Finalist: Eden Brae Homes $400,001–$500,000 Winner: Allcastle Homes Finalist: Eden Brae Homes Finalist: GJ Gardner Homes Hunter Valley $500,001–$600,000 Winner: Clarendon Homes NSW Finalist: Fairmont Homes NSW Finalist: Mojo Homes $600,001–$800,000 Winner: Icon Homes Finalist: Ansa Homes Finalist: Hall & Hart Homes Pty Limited $800,001 & Over Winner: Clarendon Homes NSW Finalist: Blue Eco Homes Finalist: Sekisui House Granny Flats Up to $100,000 Winner: Granny Flat Solutions Finalist: Granny Flat Solutions Finalist: Beechwood Homes $100,001–$150,000 Winner: Granny Flat Solutions Finalist: Granny Flat Solutions Finalist: Master Granny Flats $150,001–$200,000 Winner: NJK Property Group Finalist: Blue Gum Granny Flats Pty Ltd Finalist: Bungalow Homes $200,001 & Over Winner: Souter Built Pty Ltd Finalist: P & R Homes NSW Pty Ltd Finalist: Bungalow Homes Design & Construct — House Up to $500,000 Winner: Berkley Homes 18

Finalist: Coastline Builders & Designers Pty Ltd $500,001–$1 Million Winner: GJ Gardner Homes Hunter Valley Finalist: Buildcraft Constructions Finalist: Hall & Hart Homes Pty Limited $1 Million–$1.5 Million Winner: Gremmo Homes Pty Ltd Finalist: Chateau Architects + Builders Finalist: Futureflip $1.5 Million–$2 Million Winner: Chateau Architects + Builders Finalist: Gremmo Homes Pty Ltd $2 Million–$3 Million Winner: Gremmo Homes Pty Ltd Finalist: Chateau Architects + Builders $3 Million–$3.5 Million Winner: New South Homes $3.5 Million-$4 Million Winner: Chateau Architects + Builders $4 Million & Over Winner: Bakker Built Pty Ltd Contract Houses Up to $500,000 Winner: SHAWOOD by Sekisui House Finalist: JND Homes Pty Ltd $500,001–$650,000 Winner: Masterton Homes Pty Ltd Finalist: Better Built Homes Finalist: BlueTongue Homes Pty Ltd $650,001–$800,000 Winner: MJ Minard Pty Ltd Finalist: SHAWOOD by Sekisui House Finalist: Viva Living Homes $800,001–$1 Million Winner: Antara Homes Finalist: Buildcraft Constructions Finalist: Hall & Hart Homes Pty Limited $1 Million–$1.5 Million Winner: Young Homes Finalist: BCD Building Pty Ltd Finalist: Hamptons Homes Sydney $1.5 Million–$2 Million Joint winner: SQ Projects Pty Ltd Joint winner: Walter Homes Pty Ltd Finalist: Gremmo Homes Pty Ltd $2 Million–$2.5 Million Joint winner: Aspire Constructions Joint winner: Gremmo Homes Pty Ltd Finalist: Gremmo Homes Pty Ltd Finalist: Blue Eco Homes $2.5 Million–$3 Million Winner: Bau Group $3 Million–$4 Million Winner: Capital Construction & Refurbishing Pty Ltd Finalist: Bau Group Finalist: Graybuilt Pty Ltd $4 Million–$5 Million Winner: Renbar Constructions Pty Ltd

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

Finalist: Graybuilt Pty Ltd Finalist: MLP Co Pty Ltd $5 Million–$7 Million Joint winner: Kinn Construction Joint winner: PCM Projects Finalist: Critharis Constructions $7 Million–$8 Million Winner: Komplete Construction Pty Ltd $8 Million–$10 Million Winner: Pimas Gale Pty Ltd $10 Million–$11 Million Winner: Horizon $11 Million–$12 Million Winner: Lexpol Group Pty Ltd $12 Million–$18 Million Winner: Komplete Construction Pty Ltd $18 Million & Over Winner: Bellevarde Constructions Townhouses or Villas/ Dual Occupancy Up to $400,000 Winner: Futureflip Finalist: Worthington Homes $400,001–$600,000 Winner: Zedcon Projects Pty Ltd Finalist: Pioneer Building Group Finalist: SHAWOOD by Sekisui House $600,001 & Over Winner: Build Projects Finalist: Futureflip Finalist: Lux Building Pty Ltd Home Units Up to $400,000 Winner: Mono Constructions Pty Ltd Finalist: Cadence Construction Finalist: XL Build Pty Ltd $400,001–$600,000 Winner: Next Constructions Pty Ltd Finalist: Cadence Construction Finalist: Cuzeno Builders & Developers $600,001–$1 Million Winner: HELM Finalist: Ceerose Finalist: Pimas Gale Pty Ltd $1 Million & Over Winner: Impero Constructions Finalist: Growthbuilt Pty Ltd Finalist: Made Projects Pty Ltd Home Unit Renovation Up to $1 Million Winner: CMS Consulting Pty Ltd Finalist: Brianda Projects $1 Million & Over Winner: Constec Construction Finalist: Bellevarde Constructions Finalist: Kinn Construction Home Unit Renovation — External Open price category Winner: Buildcorp Asset Solutions Special Purpose Housing Project Open price category Winner: BA Murphy Constructions House Additions/Alterations/ Renovations Up to $250,000 Winner: Buildtech Homes

Finalist: Pin Point Construction Pty Ltd $250,001–$350,000 Winner: Pin Point Construction Pty Ltd Finalist: Beyond Build Constructions Pty Ltd $350,001–$450,000 Winner: JDW Construction $450,001–$550,000 Winner: Arc. Finalist: Advantage Construction Projects Pty Ltd $550,001–$650,000 Winner: JT Construct Pty Ltd Finalist: Avanti Projects Group Pty Ltd $650,001–$700,000 Joint winner: Avant Build Pty Ltd Joint winner: SQ Projects Pty Ltd $700,001–$800,000 Winner: Bakker Built Pty Ltd Finalist: JT Construct Pty Ltd $800,001–$900,000 Joint winner: BTM Constructions Pty Ltd Joint winner: Oikos Construction $900,001–$1 Million Joint winner: Base Projects NSW Pty Ltd Joint winner: CplusC Architectural Workshop $1 Million–$1.3 Million Winner: Construction Matters Finalist: Braeside Building Pty Ltd $1.3 Million–$1.4 Million Winner: Pride and Passion Pty Ltd Finalist: Constec Construction $1.4 Million–$1.5 Million Winner: Build By Design Pty Ltd Finalist: Peninsula Homes $1.5 Million–$1.7 Million Winner: Davina Homes Finalist: J2 Build Pty Ltd $1.7 Million–$1.8 Million Winner: Lawson & Lovell Building Services Finalist: Peninsula Projects $1.8 Million–$1.9 Million Winner: Beach Houses Australia Pty Ltd Finalist: AJP Constructions Finalist: Bau Group $1.9 Million–$2 Million Joint winner: Huntsman Constructions Joint winner: Williams Building Company P/L $2 Million–$2.3 Million Winner: Burmah Constructions $2.3 Million–$2.5 Million Winner: Probuilt Projects $2.5 Million–$3 Million Winner: Capcar Building Group Pty Ltd Finalist: MLP Co Pty Ltd $3 Million–$4 Million Winner: Matrix Additions Pty Ltd Finalist: Lawson & Lovell Building Services $4 Million & Over Winner: Re:Form Construction Restoration/Addition Up to $2 Million Winner: Bluestone Homes Pty Ltd

$2 Million & Over Winner: Platre & Deco Adaptive Re-Use Open price category Winner: Bau Group Energy Efficiency — Housing Up to $800,000 Winner: Viva Living Homes Finalist: Conor Murphy Finalist: Viva Living Homes $800,001–$2 Million Winner: Blue Eco Homes Finalist: Blue Eco Homes Finalist: Sekisui House $2 Million & Over Winner: Lawson & Lovell Building Services Finalist: Blue Eco Homes Energy Efficiency — Medium Density Open price category Winner: Steele Associates Environmental Management — Housing Up to $1 Million Winner: Blue Eco Homes Finalist: Sekisui House Finalist: Viva Living Homes $1 Million & Over Winner: Blue Eco Homes Finalist: Blue Eco Homes Environmental Management — Medium Density Open price category Winner: Steele Associates Best Use of Concrete Winner: Bellevarde Constructions Best Use of Timber Winner: Oikos Construction Best Use of Copper Winner: Pimas Gale Pty Ltd Best Use of Glass Winner: Kinn Construction Best Use of Steel Winner: DJB Construction and Carpentry Pty Ltd Best Use of Bricks Winner: Graybuilt Pty Ltd POOL AWARDS Traditional or Geometric Concrete Pools Up to $50,000 Winner: Crystal Pools Pty Ltd $50,001–$100,000 Winner: Artesian Pools Pty Ltd $100,001 & Over Joint winner: Artesian Pools Pty Ltd Joint winner: FreeStyle Pools Renovations Open price category Winner: Freedom Pools NSW Lap Pools Open price category Winner: Cronulla Pools Plunge Pools Open price category Winner: Freedom Pools NSW Spas/Portable Spas/Hot Tubs Open price category Winner: The Other Side Landscapes Commercial Pools Open price category Winner: Crystal Pools Pty Ltd Commercial Spas Open price category Winner: Crystal Pools Pty Ltd

Pimas Gale Pty Ltd

THE BUILDING INDUSTRY’S PREMIER AWARDS PRESENTATION The Master Builders Association of NSW’s Excellence in Housing and Pool Awards is the state’s most prestigious residential building awards. It celebrates excellence in construction, innovation and quality in the building and construction industry in NSW The Housing Awards showcases the very best in residential construction and attracts a broad cross-section of the residential building sector, including project home builders, contract builders, apartment constructors and contractors specialising in additions, alterations, and renovations. This year saw a record number of projects entered, with the judges not only recognising the amazing quality of construction, but also noting the challenges of the many building obstacles successfully overcome, while maintaining excellent relationships with clients, subcontractors, and design teams.

The MBA Excellence in Housing Awards is categorised into 23 divisions extending over a diverse range of residential projects. The entire residential building spectrum is covered — everything from multi-milliondollar design-and-construct projects, apartments, display homes, granny flats and townhouse developments to the best use of timber, energy-efficiency housing, and environmental management. The panel of judges faced the most challenging task of evaluating and selecting the very best projects from numerous categories, not to mention the impact of

the Pandemic and social distancing protocols. The winners were announced at a gala presentation on Friday 9 October with a formal virtual awards presentation, hosted by television personalities Johanna Griggs and Peter Colquhoun. The MBA congratulates all winners and acknowledges the Master Builder of the Year — Capital Construction & Refurbishing Pty Ltd, the Young Builder of the Year — Jake Kearns from Aspire Constructions, and the Display Home of the Year — Firstyle Homes. The MBA thanks its dedicated panel of judges and generous sponsors.

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DISPLAY HOMES UP TO $250,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ACTRONAIR

GRAND SPACE The Keswick display home at Spring Farm is an affordable modern home offering open-plan living. Suitable for narrow blocks, it presents relaxed simplicity and an upgraded character-filled living space. The design suits 12.5m-wide lot sizes, and the display is a beautifully presented family home which includes predominantly standard builders’ range inclusions. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: The objective of the Keswick display home is to showcase a market-relevant, single-level affordable home with distinctive features as an option. The open-plan living is suitable for a narrow block of 12.5m and features four bedrooms, two living areas, two bathrooms, a double garage and an alfresco. The skillion ceiling to the open family room demonstrates the

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

ease of expanding the vertical space, which creates a comfortable, airy and light-filled living area. A distinctive feature is the angled transom window, which increases the internal visual space, replicates the skillion ceiling design, adds valuable light without compromising privacy and, with the ceiling line continued through to the alfresco, a grand space is created. As with all of the winners, the builders’ craft and finishes are first class.

FIRSTYLE HOMES

Suite 6, Level 2, 138 Elizabeth Drive LIVERPOOL NSW 2170 Tel: 9731 9600 Licence number: 113412C Design: Keswick/Sorell

DISPLAY HOMES UP TO $250,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ACTRONAIR

THRIVE HOMES

Level 7, 5 Rider Boulevard RHODES NSW 2138 Tel: 1300 921 383 Licence number: 301349C Design: Vibe 21

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MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DISPLAY HOMES $250,001–$300,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ACTRONAIR

ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES The three-bedroom Alpha 18 is the ultimate flexible design for living, with a cleverly designed floorplan that makes it easy to adapt the home to changing life stages as the years go by. The single-storey home, designed for smaller, narrow blocks, is perfect for first homebuyers or those wanting to downsize without sacrificing quality and lifestyle. The Alpha 18 offers generous living spaces, plenty of storage, quality inclusions and easy indoor/outdoor living spaces that are synonymous with the great Australian lifestyle. There’s an abundance of privacy for the master suite, located at the front of the home. Here, large sleeping quarters are enhanced with a generous walk-in robe and a beautiful ensuite, creating a resort-style sanctuary. At the rear of the home is the wide, sunny family area, where kitchen, dining and living come together in a welcoming, inviting space opening onto a wide deck. It’s the perfect area

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

for entertaining, as well as quiet family time. Bi-fold doors open to the gorgeous deck. Contemporary and timeless, the modern design of the Alpha 18 is suited to the natural ambience of its interior. The soothing colour palette features warm, pale greys and browns for an earthy, natural tone that’s fresh and inviting. The master bedroom exudes a calm, luxurious feel and is almost hotel-like; with the ensuite to the side featuring hexagonshaped mosaic tiles and adding a geometric look to the contemporary scheme. The remaining two bedrooms lead off the lounge. The hall opens out to a spacious living area, with a huge bifold door bringing the outside in. The kitchen is a fresh design, with the same mosaic feature tile from the bathrooms used on part of the kitchen splashback. The reminder of the splashback is a huge window, which sits behind the cooktop. The kitchen also features 20mm stone benchtops.

JUDGES’ COMMENTS: The Alpha 18 is a single-storey home designed for the smaller block and fits the bill for a first homebuyer or those wishing to downsize. The three bedrooms are well positioned, with the main bedroom located to the front of the residence and including a generous walk-in robe and ensuite. The open-plan kitchen flows to the dining and living areas, which makes for functional entertaining. The clever design allows for either a formal lounge room or a fourth bedroom. The craftsmanship throughout complements the functional design.

MOJO HOMES

Level 4, 62 Norwest Boulevard NORWEST NSW 2153 Tel: 1300 006 656 Licence number: 269829C Design: Alpha 18 Photography: KMackay Photography

DISPLAY HOMES $250,001–$300,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ACTRONAIR

FIRSTYLE HOMES

Suite 6, Level 2, 138 Elizabeth Drive LIVERPOOL NSW 2170 Tel: 9731 9600 Licence number: 113412C Design: Nevada/Flinders

EDEN BRAE HOMES

Level 3, 22 Brookhollow Avenue, Norwest Business Park NORWEST NSW 2153 Tel: 8860 9222 Licence number: 120300C Design: Midland 21 “Leppington”

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DISPLAY HOMES $250,001–$300,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ACTRONAIR

EDEN BRAE HOMES

Level 3, 22 Brookhollow Avenue, Norwest Business Park NORWEST NSW 2153 Tel: 8860 9222 Licence number: 120300C Design: Midland 21 “Marsden Park”

FOWLER HOMES PTY LTD

405A Victoria Street WETHERILL PARK NSW 2164 Tel: 1800 606 675 Licence number: 113647C Design: Abode 21 Photography: Asset Photographers

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DISPLAY HOMES $250,001–$300,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ACTRONAIR

BEECHWOOD HOMES

Unit 2, 25-27 Redfern Street WETHERILL PARK NSW 2164 Tel: 9616 0999 Licence number: 207765C Design: Moselle Four 28

BEECHWOOD HOMES

Unit 2, 25-27 Redfern Street WETHERILL PARK NSW 2164 Tel: 9616 0999 Licence number: 207765C Design: Bardolino Three 25 — House only

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DISPLAY HOMES $250,001–$300,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ACTRONAIR

BEECHWOOD HOMES

Unit 2, 25-27 Redfern Street WETHERILL PARK NSW 2164 Tel: 9616 0999 Licence number: 207765C Design: Asti Three 24

THRIVE HOMES

Level 7, 5 Rider Boulevard RHODES NSW 2138 Tel: 1300 921 383 Licence number: 301349C Design: Aria 22

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DISPLAY HOMES $250,001–$300,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ACTRONAIR

MASTERTON HOMES PTY LTD

Corner Hume Highway and Sappho Road WARWICK FARM NSW 2170 Tel: 1300 446 637 Licence number: 35558C Design: Malibu 29 Photography: Tim Robinson

FIRSTYLE HOMES

FOWLER HOMES PTY LTD

EDEN BRAE HOMES

THRIVE HOMES

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DISPLAY HOMES $300,001–$350,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ACTRONAIR

MODERN AUSTRALIAN The large Midland 23 was created with the needs of today’s modern family in mind. This standout design is a beautiful home with an easy-feel Modern Australian theme. It enjoys bold contrasts executed with refinement, making it a style ideal for all ages — and one that will never go out of fashion. Practicality is the foundation of the fourbedroom home’s design. The Midland 23 excels in providing abundant open-plan living space, combining family and dining zones with a stunning kitchen. At the front of this exceptional home is the master bedroom, with generous walkin robe and beautifully appointed ensuite. A large living room acts as a buffer zone between spaces for children and parents, before a further three generous-sized

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

family bedrooms. Each enjoys built-ins and the bedrooms’ proximity to the family bathroom, with a separate WC, relieves congestion at busy times. The thoughtful central placement of the children’s rooms gives parents, particularly of young families, ease of supervision. The Midland 23 also offers an eclectic mix of finishes featuring render, brick and the richness of timber cladding, resulting in a façade that feels modern and contemporary JUDGES’ COMMENTS: This was a very keenly contested category and the Midland 23 was the winning entry by a small margin. The residence has an eclectic mix of finishes well carried out, with the impressive raised portico and the contrasting colours of the finishes along with the vertically clad garage surround. The choice of colours and material

finishes of the brickwork, roof tiles, windows and garage door stamps the façade as “impressive”. The layout, along with the generous walk-in robe and beautifully appointed ensuite to the master bedroom, is separated from the children’s spaces by the living room and feature a further three bedrooms. There is abundant open space living as well as a well-designed family, bathroom and a separate WC.

EDEN BRAE HOMES

Level 3, 22 Brookhollow Avenue, Norwest Business Park NORWEST NSW 2153 Tel: 8860 9222 Licence number: 120300C Design: Midland 23

DISPLAY HOMES $300,001–$350,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ACTRONAIR

FIRSTYLE HOMES

Suite 6, Level 2, 138 Elizabeth Drive LIVERPOOL NSW 2170 Tel: 9731 9600 Licence number: 113412C Design: Montara/Verge

MASTERTON HOMES PTY LTD

Corner Hume Highway and Sappho Road WARWICK FARM NSW 2170 Tel: 1300 446 637 Licence number: 35558C Design: Ascot Photography: Tim Robinson

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DISPLAY HOMES $300,001–$350,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ACTRONAIR

EDEN BRAE HOMES

Level 3, 22 Brookhollow Avenue, Norwest Business Park NORWEST NSW 2153 Tel: 8860 9222 Licence number: 120300C Design: Kew 25 MK2

FOWLER HOMES PTY LTD

405A Victoria Street WETHERILL PARK NSW 2164 Tel: 1800 606 675 Licence number: 113647C Design: Foxley 21 Photography: Asset Photographers

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DISPLAY HOMES $300,001–$350,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ACTRONAIR

CORAL HOMES

Level 3, 194 Varsity Parade VARSITY LAKES QLD 4227 Tel: 07 5585 2577 Licence number: 62084C Design: Noosaville 25

CORAL HOMES

Level 3, 194 Varsity Parade VARSITY LAKES QLD 4227 Tel: 07 5585 2577 Licence number: 62084C Design: Milan 29

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DISPLAY HOMES $300,001–$350,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ACTRONAIR

BEECHWOOD HOMES

Unit 2, 25-27 Redfern Street WETHERILL PARK NSW 2164 Tel: 9616 0999 Licence number: 207765C Design: Moscato Four Twist 27

BEECHWOOD HOMES

Unit 2, 25-27 Redfern Street WETHERILL PARK NSW 2164 Tel: 9616 0999 Licence number: 207765C Design: Veneto Four Guest 27

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DISPLAY HOMES $300,001–$350,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ACTRONAIR

BEECHWOOD HOMES

Unit 2, 25-27 Redfern Street WETHERILL PARK NSW 2164 Tel: 9616 0999 Licence number: 207765C Design: Chandon Four 34 — House Only

BEECHWOOD HOMES

Unit 2, 25-27 Redfern Street WETHERILL PARK NSW 2164 Tel: 9616 0999 Licence number: 207765C Design: Brunello Four 28

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DISPLAY HOMES $300,001–$350,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ACTRONAIR

KURMOND HOMES

10 Sovereign Place SOUTH WINDSOR NSW 2756 Tel: 1300 764 761 Licence number: 205457C Design: ‘Lincoln façade’

THRIVE HOMES

Level 7, 5 Rider Boulevard RHODES NSW 2138 Tel: 1300 921 383 Licence number: 301349C Design: Zepel 25

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DISPLAY HOMES $350,001–$400,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ACTRONAIR

coveted for its enduring, timeless street appeal. The façade expresses the current industry and market preference for mixed building materials, and the façade artfully demonstrates a blend of multiple materials and finishes. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: This was another keenly contested category and the standard of entry was exceptionally high, which made the task of choosing a winner difficult for the judges. In judging a display home, the judges essentially look at the design, the adaptability of the design to suit varying aspects and how it is put together (the workmanship). The Norwood/Delta ticks all boxes. The design features flexible open-plan living with three spacious ground floor living areas, four bedrooms, two first floor living areas and a stunning under-the-main-roof alfresco. The design suits the multi-generational family. The ground floor kitchen has a highly practical “butler’s” food prep workspace and ample storage in the walk-in pantry. The workmanship displays attention to detail, making the Norwood/Delta a worthy winner.

FIRSTYLE HOMES

Suite 6, Level 2, 138 Elizabeth Drive LIVERPOOL NSW 2170 Tel: 9731 9600 Licence number: 113412C Design: Norwood/Delta

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DISPLAY HOMES $350,001–$400,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ACTRONAIR

BEECHWOOD HOMES

Unit 2, 25-27 Redfern Street WETHERILL PARK NSW 2164 Tel: 9616 0999 Licence number: 207765C Design: Barossa Four Guest Loft 30

EDEN BRAE HOMES

Level 3, 22 Brookhollow Avenue, Norwest Business Park NORWEST NSW 2153 Tel: 8860 9222 Licence number: 120300C Design: Toorak 27

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DISPLAY HOMES $350,001–$400,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ACTRONAIR

EDEN BRAE HOMES

Level 3, 22 Brookhollow Avenue, Norwest Business Park NORWEST NSW 2153 Tel: 8860 9222 Licence number: 120300C Design: Forsyth 30 — Leppington

EDEN BRAE HOMES

Level 3, 22 Brookhollow Avenue, Norwest Business Park NORWEST NSW 2153 Tel: 8860 9222 Licence number: 120300C Design: Ellenbrook 24

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DISPLAY HOMES $350,001–$400,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ACTRONAIR

EDEN BRAE HOMES

Level 3, 22 Brookhollow Avenue, Norwest Business Park NORWEST NSW 2153 Tel: 8860 9222 Licence number: 120300C Design: Forsyth 30 — Marsden Park

FOWLER HOMES PTY LTD

405A Victoria Street WETHERILL PARK NSW 2164 Tel: 1800 606 675 Licence number: 113647C Design: Brookwater 28 Photography: Asset Photographers

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DISPLAY HOMES $350,001–$400,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ACTRONAIR

BEECHWOOD HOMES

Unit 2, 25-27 Redfern Street WETHERILL PARK NSW 2164 Tel: 9616 0999 Licence number: 207765C Design: Hayman Five Guest Twist 39

BEECHWOOD HOMES

Unit 2, 25-27 Redfern Street WETHERILL PARK NSW 2164 Tel: 9616 0999 Licence number: 207765C Design: Prosecco Four 34

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DISPLAY HOMES $350,001–$400,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ACTRONAIR

BEECHWOOD HOMES

Unit 2, 25-27 Redfern Street WETHERILL PARK NSW 2164 Tel: 9616 0999 Licence number: 207765C Design: Edgecliffe Four 29

ALLCASTLE HOMES

96-100 Toongabbie Road GIRRAWEEN NSW 2145 Tel: 1300 255 999 Licence number: 39371C Design: The Big Bannaby 33 Photography: Fiona Susanto

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DISPLAY HOMES $350,001–$400,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ACTRONAIR

FAIRMONT HOMES NSW

79 Lasso Road GREGORY HILLS NSW 2557 Tel: 02 4601 1981 Licence number: 113271C Design: Collaroy 25

ANSA HOMES

1 Winburg Drive EDMONDSON PARK NSW 2174 Tel: 1300 757 810 Licence number: 241220C Design: Arlo

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DISPLAY HOMES $350,001–$400,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ACTRONAIR

G J GARDNER HOMES TWEED HEADS & BALLINA

5/107 Minjungbal Drive TWEED HEADS SOUTH NSW 2486 Tel: 07 5523 0988 Licence number: 191221C Design: Parkview 286

MCDONALD JONES HOMES

Level 4, 62 Norwest Boulevard NORWEST NSW 2153 Tel: 1300 555 382 Licence number: 41628 Design: Tulloch 31 Two

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DISPLAY HOMES $350,001–$400,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ACTRONAIR

MASTERTON HOMES PTY LTD

Corner Hume Highway and Sappho Road WARWICK FARM NSW 2170 Tel: 1300 446 637 Licence number: 35558C Design: Brentwood Twin 33 Photography: Tim Robinson

MASTERTON HOMES PTY LTD

Corner Hume Highway and Sappho Road WARWICK FARM NSW 2170 Tel: 1300 446 637 Licence number: 35558C Design: Bel Air 37 Photography: Tim Robinson

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DISPLAY HOMES $400,001–$500,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY APOLLO KITCHENS

A MASTERPIECE OF MODERN DESIGN The Gallery is artfully built contemporary family living at its best. As you gaze upon the Gallery, a sophisticated, streamlined façade sets the tone for what awaits inside. Designer living is taken to a whole new level of luxury, with the Gallery’s innovative design ensuring that every corner of the home is filled with light and space. A modern glamorous interior with a bold and beautiful palette is expressed in dramatic flourishes of grey-brown stone benchtops distinguished by delicate white veining in the fully appointed kitchen. A stunning void over the expansive family area provides a sense of light and space in this distinctive family home, and allows

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

for seamless integration and connection between the upper and lower levels. Three separate living areas provide endless possibilities for entertaining in grand style. An impressive six-panel stacker door in the family space provides seamless access to the spacious alfresco area for indoor/outdoor living. Four generously proportioned bedrooms upstairs, including an enticing master bedroom with walk-in robe and sleek ensuite, continue the Gallery’s focus on contemporary family living. For a perfect balance of privacy and family connectivity, retreat to the mezzaninestyle upstairs living space overlooking the downstairs area, or enjoy the master suite or fifth bedroom at the front of the home. A masterpiece of modern design, the Gallery delivers 36.5 squares of picture-

perfect style and distinctive living. Spacious living areas, a stylish designer kitchen with walk-in pantry, separate media room and four large bedrooms — this is modern family living at its best. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: In another hotly contested category, the judges had to again look into every detail of construction. The Gallery façade sets the tone for what awaits inside. The living area has an impressive sixpanel stacker door, which provides seamless access to the expansive alfresco area and, when combined with the void over, offers an uninterrupted flow between the upper and lower levels. The home features an open-plan kitchen with a huge walk-in pantry. There are four generously proportioned bedrooms upstairs, with the master bedroom having a walk-in robe and sleek ensuite. The upstairs living space overlooks the downstairs area, making this a truly modern and well-designed residence. A very deserving winner.

ALLCASTLE HOMES

96-100 Toongabbie Road GIRRAWEEN NSW 2145 Tel: 1300 255 999 Licence number: 39371C Design: The Gallery Photography: Fiona Susanto

DISPLAY HOMES $400,001–$500,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY APOLLO KITCHENS

EDEN BRAE HOMES

Level 3, 22 Brookhollow Avenue, Norwest Business Park NORWEST NSW 2153 Tel: 8860 9222 Licence number: 120300C Design: Bristol 30 — Guest Suite

GJ GARDNER HOMES HUNTER VALLEY

100 George Street SINGLETON NSW 2330 Tel: 02 6572 2222 Licence number: 246822C Design: Sunbury

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DISPLAY HOMES $400,001–$500,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY APOLLO KITCHENS

FOWLER HOMES PTY LTD

405A Victoria Street WETHERILL PARK NSW 2164 Tel: 1800 606 675 Licence number: 113647C Design: Haven 30 Photography: Asset Photographers

BEECHWOOD HOMES

Unit 2, 25-27 Redfern Street WETHERILL PARK NSW 2164 Tel: 9616 0999 Licence number: 207765C Design: Seacrest Four 39

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DISPLAY HOMES $400,001–$500,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY APOLLO KITCHENS

BEECHWOOD HOMES

Unit 2, 25-27 Redfern Street WETHERILL PARK NSW 2164 Tel: 9616 0999 Licence number: 207765C Design: Bayswater Five Guest 37

BEECHWOOD HOMES

Unit 2, 25-27 Redfern Street WETHERILL PARK NSW 2164 Tel: 9616 0999 Licence number: 207765C Design: Marlborough Four Guest 36

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DISPLAY HOMES $400,001–$500,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY APOLLO KITCHENS

ALLCASTLE HOMES

96-100 Toongabbie Road GIRRAWEEN NSW 2145 Tel: 1300 255 999 Licence number: 39371C Design: The Crest Photography: Fiona Susanto

KURMOND HOMES

10 Sovereign Place SOUTH WINDSOR NSW 2756 Tel: 1300 764 761 Licence number: 205457C Design: Affinity 37 MK2 ‘Axis Façade’

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DISPLAY HOMES $400,001–$500,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY APOLLO KITCHENS

MOJO HOMES

Level 4, 62 Norwest Boulevard NORWEST NSW 2153 Tel: 1300 006 656 Licence number: 269829C Design: Tivoli 30

MOJO HOMES

Level 4, 62 Norwest Boulevard NORWEST NSW 2153 Tel: 1300 006 656 Licence number: 269829C Design: Lido 28

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DISPLAY HOMES $400,001–$500,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY APOLLO KITCHENS

HALL & HART HOMES PTY LIMITED

Suite 1, Level 5, 470 Church Street PARRAMATTA NSW 2150 Tel: 8662 0037 Licence number: 275897C Design: Mayfair 31 Contemporary Photography: Element Real Estate

MASTERTON HOMES PTY LTD

Corner Hume Highway and Sappho Road WARWICK FARM NSW 2170 Tel: 1300 446 637 Licence number: 35558C Design: Aston Premier Photography: Tim Robinson

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DISPLAY HOMES $400,001–$500,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY APOLLO KITCHENS

MCDONALD JONES HOMES

Level 4, 62 Norwest Boulevard NORWEST NSW 2153 Tel: 1300 555 382 Licence number: 41628 Design: Bridgetown 33

MCDONALD JONES HOMES

Level 4, 62 Norwest Boulevard NORWEST NSW 2153 Tel: 1300 555 382 Licence number: 41628 Design: St. Clair 34 Two

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DISPLAY HOMES $500,001–$600,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY APOLLO KITCHENS

A SPACE FOR EVERYONE With four bedrooms and two bathrooms, the single-storey Carrington 31 was designed to meet the requirements of the Hunter and Newcastle land sizes. Four separate living areas are placed throughout, including a retreat at the front, a spacious home theatre and relaxing alfresco positioned at the rear. The private master bedroom with a generous ensuite is nestled at the rear of the Hamptons-inspired home. Carefully considered interior design features include patterned wallpaper and a dark timber colour palette such as matte black tapware in the kitchen and bathrooms. These features bring a bold twist to the Hamptons look and feel. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: This category shows what a higher build cost can display primarily in the Hunter and Newcastle areas for lots 15m wide. This four-bedroom, twobathroom, single-storey home is cleverly

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

designed with four separate living areas placed throughout including a retreat at the front, a spacious home theatre and relaxing alfresco at the back meaning that there is space for everyone to enjoy on the one level. While the judges primarily look at the design and the craftsmanship, they could not help but be impressed by the Hamptons-inspired theme, as well as the patterned wallpaper teamed with oversized picture frames, textured cushions and throws and a dark timber colour palette including matt black tapware throughout the kitchen and bathrooms. A classic construction of a well-planned-and-built home.

CLARENDON HOMES NSW

21 Solent Circuit BAULKHAM HILLS NSW 2153 Tel: 13 63 93 Licence number: 2298C Design: Carrington 30 Photography: Maree Homer

DISPLAY HOMES $500,001–$600,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY APOLLO KITCHENS

FAIRMONT HOMES NSW

79 Lasso Road GREGORY HILLS NSW 2557 Tel: 02 4601 1981 Licence number: 113271C Design: Bellevue 36

MOJO HOMES

Level 4, 62 Norwest Boulevard NORWEST NSW 2153 Tel: 1300 006 656 Licence number: 269829C Design: Chevron 37

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DISPLAY HOMES $500,001–$600,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY APOLLO KITCHENS

MOJO HOMES

Level 4, 62 Norwest Boulevard NORWEST NSW 2153 Tel: 1300 006 656 Licence number: 269829C Design: Enigma 32

ANSA HOMES

1 Winburg Drive EDMONDSON PARK NSW 2174 Tel: 1300 757 810 Licence number: 241220C Design: Brooklyn

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DISPLAY HOMES $500,001–$600,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY APOLLO KITCHENS

FOWLER HOMES PTY LTD

405A Victoria Street WETHERILL PARK NSW 2164 Tel: 1800 606 675 Licence number: 113647C Design: St Tropez 33 Photography: Asset Photographers

MASTERTON HOMES PTY LTD

Corner Hume Highway and Sappho Road WARWICK FARM NSW 2170 Tel: 1300 446 637 Licence number: 35558C Design: Synergy Premier Twin (Option 5) Photography: Tim Robinson

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DISPLAY HOMES $600,001–$800,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY APOLLO KITCHENS

STYLE MEETS REVOLUTIONARY TECHNOLOGY The growing need for sustainable living has inspired innovative new construction methods that are not only eco-friendly, but also offer sizeable savings on power costs. Icon Homes’ newest display home, The Avora, demonstrates an intersection of style and revolutionary technology, signifying a shift in the future of construction through its net zero energy rating. Located in Sydney’s Northern Beaches, this Warriewood home takes its style inspiration from the city, coast and nature to create the

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

ultimate Australian home. Not only aesthetically stunning and functional for relaxed coastal living, the home is revolutionary in its use of technology to reduce carbon emissions and provide the opportunity for sustainable living with a net zero electricity bill. The design boasts a contemporary façade including the use of rendered Masterwall to incorporate a mix of square and rounded profiles in the two balconies, feature external awnings and the alfresco roof detail. A

cantilevered front façade and feature cladded parapet showcases complex structural-steel elements and mixed material cladding such as vertical and horizontal James Hardie Stria cladding, rendered Masterwall and vertical cedar shiplap cladding. Crackenback Freeform stone wall cladding adorns the front façade and feature piers to the alfresco. There’s also a motorised Vergola to the alfresco, and a Helioscreen motorised external venetian blind to the front façade. The feature staircase includes a sitefabricated structural-steel mono stringer, custom treads utilising mitred 15mm engineered flooring and a glass balustrade with stainless capping rail. The Avora has been designed to achieve a net zero rating for its use as a residential dwelling, achieving an overall balance between emissions produced and emissions taken out of the atmosphere during day-to-

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DISPLAY HOMES $600,001–$800,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY APOLLO KITCHENS

day use. To achieve this rating, the house utilised energy-efficient elements such as a 7.15KW solar array comprising 26 275W panels by Suntech, which make the most of the flat roof design. These panels cannot be seen from the street, which maintains the home’s aesthetics. A 5.0kwh Sonnen battery stores power for use when high loads are expected and energy is at its most expensive, usually in the afternoon/early evening. Cross-flow ventilation is achieved with balconies to both the east and west façade, and opening louvres and sliding windows on the north and south façades. This reduces the need for airconditioning.

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

JUDGES’ COMMENTS: This is a home that looks good from the rear as well as the front. The contemporary home uses a rendered Masterwall to incorporate a mix of square and rounded profiles in the two balconies. The cantilevered front façade and feature parapet showcases complex structuralsteel elements. The Crackenback Freeform stone wall cladding and feature piers is stunning. Internally, the mono stringer stair with custom treads and glass balustrade is set under the coffered ceilings with rounded coffers with LED lighting and cedar shiplap cladding. The custom cavity stacking door is a feature. The residence has aspects that

are not seen, but the benefits are present, such as the ‘net zero rating’ for emissions, solar panels, a NATHERS Star Rating of 5.1, cross-flow ventilation, motorised external venetian and Vergola, along with waterefficiency measures. A well-planned-andbuilt efficient home.

ICON HOMES

Suite 5.12, 32 Delhi Road NORTH RYDE NSW 2113 Tel: 1800 694 266 Licence number: 188457C Design: The Avora

DISPLAY HOMES $600,001–$800,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY APOLLO KITCHENS

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DISPLAY HOMES $600,001–$800,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY APOLLO KITCHENS

ANSA HOMES

1 Winburg Drive EDMONDSON PARK NSW 2154 Tel: 1300 757 810 Licence number: 241220C Design: Sierra

HALL & HART HOMES PTY LIMITED

Suite 1, Level 5, 470 Church Street PARRAMATTA NSW 2150 Tel: 8662 0037 Licence number: 275897C Design: Soho 35 Modern Photography: Element Real Estate

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DISPLAY HOMES $600,001–$800,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY APOLLO KITCHENS

CLARENDON HOMES NSW

21 Solent Circuit BAULKHAM HILLS NSW 2153 Tel: 136 393 Licence number: 2298C Design: Sheridan 36 Photography: Maree Homer

PRIVIUM HOMES

Level 2, Compton House, 54 Perrin Drive UNDERWOOD Qld 4119 Tel: 1300 002 268 Licence number: 254295C Design: Pollock 24/ Wellington

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DISPLAY HOMES $800,001 & OVER PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY APOLLO KITCHENS

CHIC YET CLASSIC The Boston 42 is the largest Boston design on display and the second granny flat built on display by Clarendon Homes, both styled in the ever-popular Hamptons look. The main home features five bedrooms and three bathrooms, while the granny flat at the rear features two bedrooms and one bathroom. Presenting the ‘best first impression’ to this Hamptons home started with the entry foyer, with V-joint wall panelling, chair rails, coffered ceilings and wall sconce lighting all reflecting a timeless and classic introduction to a carefully blended mix of subtle low-maintenance finishes. The herringbone floor pattern in timberlook tiling stretches from the porch through the home to the grand alfresco and

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

achieves a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living alongside the detailed wall panelling. The timeless Hamptons interior has a chic yet classic aesthetic with a coastal resort ambiance. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: This Hamptonsstyle residence is really two residences when the granny flat is taken into account. The Boston 42 features five bedroom and two bathrooms, while the granny flat to the rear features two bedrooms and one bathroom. Externally, the ‘homes’ have clean lines accentuated by the Hamptons-style façade, which combine the palette of winter white, sea green, warm greys, sand and the fine thread of black and tan throughout the theme of the

home. Internally, the V-jointed timber wall panelling, chair rails, coffered ceilings and wall sconce lighting all reflect a timeless and classic introduction to a carefully blended mix of subtle low-maintenance finishes. The relaxed living zones are enhanced by the soft colour tones with tactile elegant materials. A home that fills an owner’s desire.

CLARENDON HOMES NSW

21 Solent Circuit BAULKHAM HILLS NSW 2153 Tel: 136 393 Licence number: 2298C Design: Boston 42 Photography: Maree Homer

DISPLAY HOMES $800,001 & OVER PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY APOLLO KITCHENS

BLUE ECO HOMES

PO Box 4366 WINMALEE NSW 2777 Tel: 4754 5608 Licence number: 197017C Design: Sapphire

SEKISUI HOUSE

Ground Floor, 68 Waterloo Road MACQUARIE PARK NSW 2113 Tel: 1800 951 068 Licence number: 226045C Design: SHINKA House — SHAWOOD

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DISPLAY HOMES $800,001 & OVER PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY APOLLO KITCHENS

HALL & HART HOMES PTY LIMITED

Suite 1, Level 5, 470 Church Street PARRAMATTA NSW 2150 Tel: 8662 0037 Licence number: 275897C Design: Chelsea 42 Hamptons Photography: Element Real Estate

CLARENDON HOMES NSW

SEKISUI HOUSE

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

BLUE ECO HOMES

HALL & HART HOMES PTY LIMITED

DESIGN & CONSTRUCT — HOUSE UP TO $500,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ALINTA ENERGY

NEW LIFE This project was a real one of a kind and involved three types of construction in one — demolition, a renovation and a brand new home. Various people with different skillsets were on site every day to bring this sad and defective once dream home back to life. The biggest challenge was at the beginning — finding all the pieces of the puzzle, as the previous builder went into bankruptcy early in the build. As a result, the clients had to be shown that they could trust Berkley Homes and that there are many good builders out there. The next challenge was working to the budget — a lot of money had to be spent fixing problems and redoing work. Berkley Homes had to schedule in a start date to pull down the home by hand, piece by piece. Another difficulty was making the existing work of the previous builder look like

quality construction, ensuring that it met all standards and amending the colours and selections to give this luxury dream home some life once again. The final challenge was the hidden surprises around every corner from the previous builder. The clients are now truly happy and overwhelmed that their dream home nightmare is finally over. They love their home and can’t thank Berkley Homes enough. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: This house shows great street appeal with a tonne of natural light coming into the centre of the home. There are large living and entertaining areas and lots of clever design elements to maximise space while keeping the build cost down.

BERKLEY HOMES

Tel: 1300 034 077 Licence number: 315676C

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DESIGN & CONSTRUCT — HOUSE UP TO $500,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ALINTA ENERGY

COASTLINE BUILDERS & DESIGNERS PTY LTD

Tel: 02 4942 3474 Licence number: 309361C Design: Warners Bay Project Photography: Adams Photography

BERKLEY HOMES

COASTLINE BUILDERS & DESIGNERS PTY LTD COASTLINE BUILDERS & DESIGNERS PTY LTD

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

COASTLINE BUILDERS & DESIGNERS PTY LTD

DESIGN & CONSTRUCT — HOUSE $500,001–$1 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ALINTA ENERGY

GRAND HUNTER VALLEY LIVING These clients approached GJ Gardner Homes Hunter Valley with a clear vision of what they required — a grand home to accommodate groups of people, and be utilised as a holiday rental to attract high-end clients from the city. Their double lot has a notable cross fall. The main feature of the block is the slope, which projects a stunning outlook to the rear and north of the home over a picturesque golf course. The block is situated in an estate, which has very clear and specific guidelines that are strictly enforced and measured during the planning stage of the project.

Every bedroom boasts its own full ensuite with separately keyed rooms off a master key system. There are plenty of entertainment spaces including a fully equipped games room flowing out onto a long verandah, alfresco, pool and putting green. Two separate sitting rooms and an open-plan family/dining/kitchen area with a gas fireplace can also be enjoyed. To accommodate and maximise usage of the site fall, the games room and bedrooms on the north wing were set down to create a higher feature ceiling while keeping a clean roofline on the façade. The finished product is a grand home that epitomises life in the Hunter Valley. The outdoors is quietly incorporated into the home with highlight windows and carefully

positioned sliding doors, ensuring that this home will attract clients all year around, not just in the warmer months. The subtle internal colour palette works to truly showcase the quality architectural features of the home. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: The build met the clients’ brief by giving them a single-storey Hamptons-style home with large open-plan living. The house is great money value for the 420m² and has been finished with care and attention to detail.

GJ GARDNER HOMES HUNTER VALLEY

Tel: 6572 2222 Licence number: 246822C Design: Hamptons on Figtree

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

Certainty makes all the difference.

It’s not just our designs and people that sets us apart... It’s GJ+ Our GJ+ approach takes our engagement with you to a new level of certainty, trust and transparency. It ensures your new home features the very best design for your site, built according to a ﬁxed price contract (there may be rock exclusion in some areas) and a ﬁxed build time, to the highest possible standard and the sharpest possible price.

Ask about GJ+ when you choose to build.

GJ+ it’s our unique assurance of quality service to you and all our valued customers. Contact G.J. Gardner Homes on 132 789 Or visit gjgardner.com.au

DESIGN & CONSTRUCT — HOUSE $500,001–$1 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ALINTA ENERGY

BUILDCRAFT CONSTRUCTIONS

Tel: 8814 7701 Licence number: 162141C Design: Hunters Hill

HALL & HART HOMES PTY LIMITED

Tel: 8662 0037 Licence number: 275897C Design: Madison 33 Custom Photography: Element Real Estate

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DESIGN & CONSTRUCT — HOUSE $500,001–$1 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ALINTA ENERGY

BERKLEY HOMES

Tel: 1300 034 077 Licence number: 315676C

COASTLINE BUILDERS & DESIGNERS PTY LTD

Tel: 4942 3474 Licence number: 309361C Design: Raworth Project Photography: Adams Photography

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DESIGN & CONSTRUCT — HOUSE $1 MILLION–$1.5 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ALINTA ENERGY

TO GROW AND THRIVE Cedar House has a striking modern design, which is evident from the street. The design brief provided by the clients was to take advantage of the wide block and create a contemporary living space that suits their busy, evolving lifestyle. The home acts as a provider and protector for its inhabitants, granting a young family with a sanctum in which to grow and thrive. With a unique street presence of a recessed entry door unit, cleverly designed with privacy glazing, organic dry-stone walling and soft white walls, the building reads like a physical feature in an urban landscape. Upon entry, the home reveals a lofty, open and inclusive arrangement. A light-filled gallery highlights a central staircase with spotted gum open treads, which sit on a steel mono-string spine, and an oversized void area with six metres of architectural glazing. The house presents with a combination of modern and contemporary style. The internal courtyard was designed as an architectural feature, which also maximises the sunlight which can be seen flooding the double-height living area with light during the day. Clever design and layout have addressed the sloping block seamlessly. The design has two subtle level changes, with a third up to

the master suite, bedrooms and retreat. The maximisation of breeze and light were integral throughout the entire design and construction process. Staying true to the overarching design concept, a clean, simple and robust materials palette, taking cues from Nordic design, features light timbers, natural concrete tones and an abundance of glazing. The kitchen is the area demanding the most attention due to the monochromatic style. Here you will see contrasting finishes, reflective surfaces and a bounty of secret, integrated passageways, which cleverly lead to the working areas of the home. One of the most valued inclusions of this build is a spacious mudroom with a wall dedicated to custom joinery and clever storage. Successfully achieving a strong sense of style throughout a home requires thoughtfulness and balance. This has been achieved in all spaces by cleverly combining modern finishes with touches of warmth and softness. Luxurious inclusions and key features of this home include; substantial plunge pool, boutique appliances, large-format porcelain flooring, gas fireplace and underfloor heating. Undoubtedly though, the hero is the glazed kitchen splashback which allows for clear viewing and natural light during the day, and privacy, with translucent glazing

for evening. This is thanks to the thoughtful inclusion of Switch Glass. Environmentally driven inclusions are abundant throughout the home, such as a 10,000-litre rainwater tank, solar hot water system, individual room-controlled energy-efficient air conditioning system, double-glazed windows which incorporate performance glass and high-level insulation, ensuring thermal and acoustic comfort. The owners’ desire to create a completely contemporary home was forefront of the design process, a home that fulfilled the brief of modern family living. Gremmo Homes has ensured that the clients’ own ideas of a perfect lifestyle have been brought to life with the finest finishes and excellent craftsmanship. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: With a variety of materials that sit well together, this house has great street appeal. The designer has done an excellent job in getting so much natural light into this large home. The choices of materials and finishes throughout have been installed with care and detail. Great job.

GREMMO HOMES PTY LTD

Tel: 9629 9509 Licence number: 125862C Design: Cedar House

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DESIGN & CONSTRUCT — HOUSE $1 MILLION–$1.5 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ALINTA ENERGY

CHATEAU ARCHITECTS + BUILDERS

Tel: 9634 6888 Licence number: 6323 Design: Brookvale Residence

FUTUREFLIP

Tel: 9540 9973 Licence number: 239666C Design: Brolga

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DESIGN & CONSTRUCT — HOUSE $1 MILLION–$1.5 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ALINTA ENERGY

GREMMO HOMES PTY LTD

Tel: 9629 9509 Licence number: 125862C Design: Bardwell Residence

CONSTRUCTION BY DESIGN (NSW) PTY LTD

Tel: 8882 9012 Licence number: 221981C Design: Sunden Way Residence

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DESIGN & CONSTRUCT — HOUSE $1 MILLION–$1.5 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ALINTA ENERGY

ARTICO CUSTOM HOMES

Tel: 1300 512 205 Licence number: 304585C Design: Project 102

SYDNEY BEACH HOMES

Tel: 9939 2592 Licence number: 98065C Design: Nth Curl Curl Beach House Photography: Lime Photography

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

2019 WINN ER

2020 WINN ER

Every Home, Custom Designed, & Master Built Since 1970

ER 2020 WINN

DESIGN & CONSTRUCT — HOUSE $1.5 MILLION–$2 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ALINTA ENERGY

ESCAPE TO THE CHATEAU These clients had lived in a custom Chateau Architects + Builders-designedand-built home that still looked as good as the day that it was built decades ago. The home was located on a site close to the Showground Metro Station, where it is planned to be used in the future development of the precinct. This prompted the homeowners to embark on a new design and build experience with Chateau Architects + Builders. Their new site is located on a westernfacing slope within a historic landslide area that was recently remediated. The slide plane material within the shale bedrock was removed by the land developers, and a series of drains for permanent groundwater pressure relief was laid and backfilled using controlled fill. Chateau worked closely with the geotechnical engineers to address the site constraints to the development from the early stages of design and throughout the build.

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

The clients wished to maximise site cover, which was challenging as the council’s guidelines of 30 per cent cover contradicted the 60 per cent that was more suitable for smaller lots. Council was aware of this and Chateau had to justify the difference by addressing the site with a well-resolved design concept that was well considered. The corner site offers great views towards the Blue Mountains and is an idyllic setting for a retirement home where westerly views are captured from a wraparound timber deck. Sliding screens offer protection from glare. The deck is framed in steel beams that recess at piers to create rhythm and style, enhancing the presence in form and evoking a scene of permanence in style. The style of the home is contemporary, with a reference to modern homes from the turn of the century. Steel, timber and stone create warmth and a pleasant, welcoming feel. The single-storey residence with basement garage and storage underneath accommodates the homeowners and their visiting extended family, with four bedrooms, a home office and two separate

interconnected living zones. The kitchen connects the zones and offers direct access to the north-facing outdoor living area with views towards the swimming pool. Upon opening the sliding doors, indoor and outdoor spaces flow freely for large family gatherings. Lift access is provided directly from the garage for ease of access and mobility on a sloping site. The home is also built to BAL29 construction to protect the occupants in the event of a brushfire emergency. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: This project was for an older couple and the design incorporates a lift from the garage to the main living area. Good use of stone, timber and glass gives it presence as it sits on the corner block. Throughout the project, great attention to detail blends these materials well. Great value for money.

CHATEAU ARCHITECTS + BUILDERS

Tel: 9634 6888 Licence number: 6323 Design: Castle Hill Residence

DESIGN & CONSTRUCT — HOUSE $1.5 MILLION–$2 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ALINTA ENERGY

GREMMO HOMES PTY LTD

Tel: 9629 9509 Licence number: 125862C Design: Terrace House

CHATEAU ARCHITECTS + BUILDERS

CHATEAU ARCHITECTS + BUILDERS GREMMO HOMES PTY LTD

GREMMO HOMES PTY LTD

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DESIGN & CONSTRUCT — HOUSE $2 MILLION–$3 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ALINTA ENERGY

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DESIGN & CONSTRUCT — HOUSE $2 MILLION–$3 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ALINTA ENERGY

A TRUE HAVEN The core concept of this private residential project is about maximising the opportunity for the lighting interaction with the house surface. With this interaction, the house can be highlighted within the environment in a much clearer way. The intentional architectural layering of dry pressed brickwork, colossal glazing and a conspicuous roofline aids in the intent to create a distinct and noteworthy dwelling. Internally, an oversized and vast entrance is shadowed by double-height windows, allowing natural light to flood into the main passageway. Features such as wide engineered timber flooring, stark walling and a monotone kitchen palette, all favoured by the client, add exciting layers to the interiors.

The Haven offers a functionally designed house with a focus on passageways that allow fluidity within the home. An emphasis on the outdoor surrounds, through the use of large glass sliding panels, are receptive to cool and warm temperatures and create a space that is consistently adaptable to the family’s needs. Modern design and contemporary styling give character to the home and offer a comfortable living environment for the family to enjoy for years to come. The clients had a strong desire to maximise the authentic rural setting and maintain a clear connection to the landscape. This has been achieved through the epic glazed panels, which enable viewing points from every aspect of the property.

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DESIGN & CONSTRUCT — HOUSE $2 MILLION–$3 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ALINTA ENERGY

The build came with bushfire-related challenges. The property contains the highest Flame Zone (FZ) rating and as such, an extensive amount of effort, research and intentional design choices were meshed into the build. It was the clients’ desire to maintain a truly integrated and flawless finish with regards to the required bushfire items. This has been achieved seamlessly while combining the Flame Zone components. Environmentally, the build included a double-glazing system to all windows and doors, and incorporated a Flame Zonecompliant custom entry door unit, which stands an impressive 5m tall. The home was designed with the natural contour of the land in mind. This presents as a level entry, which subtly tiers down to the rear of the block. The Haven seamlessly includes passageways and concealed doors,

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

all of which allow for smart living. There are numerous indoor and outdoor alcoves, which offer the dwellers individual and private spaces. Allowing a functional use of communal areas and a clever juxtaposition of finishes, The Haven is characterised by fluidity and thoughtfully created environments. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: This house, located in Sydney’s northwest nestled in a bush setting, incorporates a contemporary design that is sympathetic to its environment. Exceptional detailing and impressive finishes have resulted in another award-winning home for the designer and builders.

GREMMO HOMES PTY LTD

Tel: 9629 9509 Licence number: 125862C Design: The Haven

DESIGN & CONSTRUCT — HOUSE $2 MILLION–$3 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ALINTA ENERGY

CHATEAU ARCHITECTS + BUILDERS

Tel: 9634 6888 Licence number: 6323 Design: Kings Langley Residence

CHATEAU ARCHITECTS + BUILDERS

Tel: 9634 6888 Licence number: 6323 Design: Seaforth Residence

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DESIGN & CONSTRUCT — HOUSE $3 MILLION–$3.5 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ALINTA ENERGY

OPULENCE AND LUXURY This palatial French Provincial-inspired home has been carefully crafted to meticulous specifications. The home is superbly designed for entertaining, with a true-to-life Tuscan-inspired central courtyard, a large alfresco open to the living areas, and resortstyle pool and cabana. From the moment you walk into the openplan formal living and dining area, and see the parquetry floors, gas fireplace, curved staircase with wrought-iron balustrades, coffered ceilings and view of the Tuscan courtyard, you will immediately be transferred to a sense of opulence and luxury. The home also contains a custom-built wine cellar to suit the most fastidious wine connoisseur. The gourmet Caesarstone kitchen with a custom-built rangehood is at the centre of the home with a large scullery and laundry space behind, open to the large living area with coffered ceilings and a second fireplace. Energy efficiency was a key consideration of this home, with additional foam insulation installed to all external walls, and double glazing to the western and northern windows. This is a home that has to be seen to be truly appreciated for its regal quality and superiority. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: European style is carried throughout this home, which includes an amazing Tuscan-inspired courtyard that could be straight from Florence. As you enter and to the side of the foyer, a magnificent spiral staircase features, with beautiful detailing. A very grand house in every way. Well done!

NEW SOUTH HOMES

Tel: 9481 7443 Licence number: 319502C

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DESIGN & CONSTRUCT — HOUSE $3.5 MILLION–$4 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ALINTA ENERGY

A SITE-SPECIFIC HOME SOLUTION This contemporary home with a subtle touch of Versace detailing is located immediately alongside the bay at Rodd Point, one of Sydney’s most popular walking destinations. The site is located on a street corner and while of ample width, was limited in depth. With a 700m² site area, various restrictions and a major Sydney Water mains to negotiate, having private amenity located at the rear of the home was neither feasible nor a good design outcome. The result is a unique, site-specific home solution. The living areas are of an open-plan design, located towards the front of the home to optimise solar access and ensure uninterrupted views across the bay. Similarly, primary outdoor amenities including terraces, balcony, pool and yard are located forward of the home, towards the public domain. Landscaping and fencing in front offer security and some level of privacy without compromising bay views. Living areas at ground level are slightly elevated above the public domain to ensure views to the bay. Living areas wrap around a pool integrated into the structure of the home, which serves as a central feature

viewed from the entry and both formal and informal living areas. The first floor is primarily bedrooms, with an additional living area that adjoins a generous balcony terrace. This area primarily serves as a play area for children, but also as another more private area for entertaining, offering more elevated views across the bay. A basement level underneath, effectively obscured from view, accommodates storerooms, a three-car garage and vehicular turntable. The location of these non-habitable rooms below ground ensures that the living levels above are free to enjoy uncompromised views, improved cross-flow ventilation, unimpeded solar access and greater energy efficiency. The basement level is below the water table. As water was continually coming from the neighbouring property, Sydney Water, extreme engineering and waterproof membranes were required to ensure that the basement is watertight. Premium finishes and inclusions to complement the home include semicommercial windows and external door units to optimise views and sun; a wroughtiron custom-made front door; concealed pelmets with roll screening to ensure privacy at night; combination render and

paint/Scyon Matrix panelling/Mini Orb to external wall linings; a three-storey internal lift; upgraded thermal and acoustic insulation; frameless glass balustrading to stairs and terraces; marble and porcelain floor tiling and Black Japan Synteko timber flooring to the first floor and selected areas. The homeowners also opted for a gas fireplace; ceiling-mounted showerheads; freestanding baths; a steam shower to the ensuite; a basement wine cellar; external barbecue kitchen; wall, steam and steam-combi ovens to the kitchen; gas and induction cooking appliances; coffee machine; wine conditioner and more. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: Not a job for the faint hearted. With a basement wanting to fill with water at high tide, this project was full of problems that the builder had to deal with to get it out of the ground. The house features spectacular tiling and marble work in the bathrooms and impressive joinery throughout. The quality and workmanship are excellent and of great credit to the builder.

CHATEAU ARCHITECTS + BUILDERS

Tel: 9634 6888 Licence number: 6323 Design: Rodd Point Residence

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

DESIGN & CONSTRUCT — HOUSE $4 MILLION & OVER PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ALINTA ENERGY

UNDERSTATED AND IMPRESSIVE Bakker Built started the Oyster Bay House project after the first builder’s contract was terminated and a plea from the clients and designer. After meeting the clients and hearing their story, Bakker Built literally couldn’t say no and put his own house on hold to help them out. The clients had lived on the site for a number of years before deciding to rebuild. The peaceful waterfront location, with outstanding views, surpassed anything else available in the area. The client is also a keen gardener, and wanted to be able to showcase his gardening skills in the new home. The location is spectacular, demanding an exceptional home that is both understated and impressive. High-quality finishes complement a pared-back design, with impressive spaces and views.

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

The house is built over three levels, connecting the upper-level street entry to the living area and garden on the lower floor. From the street, a long driveway leads to a simple concrete archway with concealed garage and entry doors in a timber screen. A walkway from the front gate leads through the garden, passes by a pond and across a bridge to the main entry of the house. Through the oversized glass pivot door, the view is perfectly framed. A large central void acts as the singular organising space for the house. As well as containing the circulation, this space draws light deep into the centre of the house, and effortlessly connects the various levels. Bedrooms are located on the middle level, and living areas on the ground floor. Lift access has been integrated to future proof the house for the owners. Both the external and internal materials used connect harmoniously, as do the spaces. These materials include concrete, blackened

oak, natural oak, stone and bamboo. A mineral pool of Sukabumi stone tiles connects seamlessly with the living space and sits effortlessly against the backdrop of a natural landscape of bay and bushland. The home contains a number of spaces that the architect refers to as “moments of delight”. These unexpected glimpses and outlooks elevate life in the house above the mundane and normal. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: There is nothing worse than taking over a project that’s been started by another builder. This job was full of problems, access being one, together with the design details. The end product is full of high-quality finishes and features. A great job.

BAKKER BUILT PTY LTD

Tel: 0413 418 854 Licence number: 248031C Design: Oyster Bay House

DESIGN & CONSTRUCT — HOUSE $4 MILLION & OVER PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ALINTA ENERGY

BAKKER BUILT PTY LTD BAKKER BUILT PTY LTD

BAKKER BUILT PTY LTD

0413 418 854

stacy@bakkerbuilt.com

www.bakkerbuilt.com

House Additions/ Alterations/Renovations $700,001-$800,000 Design & Construct – House $4 Million & OVER

Licence No: 248031C

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

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CONTRACT HOUSES UP TO $500,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MBIB

JAPANESE HERITAGE

This master architect-designed, singlestorey, four-bedroom Type J SHAWOOD home has been planned to perfection to suit the needs of the modern family and delivers unique innovations. A strong Japanese heritage permeates the design, giving the home an organic sense of consideration. The use of natural materials and sophisticated internal and external colour palettes ensures that this striking residence is in harmony with the natural environment in which tranquility resides. Integrated living spaces connect seamlessly to the outdoor landscaped yard, creating a calming sense of continuity. The interior of the home is immaculately designed, with carefully considered window and door positioning and extended ceiling heights, flooding the dwelling with natural light and ventilation.

The thoughtful spatial design also makes the home feel much larger than its 249m², with well-defined zones offering ample storage and making everyday activities effortless and stress free. The distinctive architectural pitched ceiling creates an uplifting sense of spaciousness and connectivity between the kitchen, dining, living and lounge rooms. The covered alfresco area and dedicated children’s rumpus retreat add to the appeal of this supremely comfortable home. The residence affords a wonderful sense of outdoor living and unique innovations that make a SHAWOOD home so

distinctive, including quality appliances and contemporary finishes throughout. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: This house is a Japanese-design building with an interesting external panelling system. The quality of the build is excellent and great value for money. It is a great system to get quality into low-cost building.

SHAWOOD BY SEKISUI HOUSE

Tel: 1800 951 068 Licence number: 226045C Design: SHAWOOD Type J

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

CONTRACT HOUSES UP TO $500,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MBIB

JND HOMES PTY LTD

Tel: 0422 097 664 Licence number: 329109C Design: San Donato

WORTHINGTON HOMES

Tel: 1300 301 138 Licence number: 222440C

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

CONTRACT HOUSES UP TO $500,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MBIB

VIVA LIVING HOMES

Tel: 1300 929 111 Licence number: 229457C Design: Blackheath ‘Stepping Stone’

SHAWOOD BY SEKISUI HOUSE

JND HOMES PTY LTD WORTHINGTON HOMES

VIVA LIVING HOMES

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

CONTRACT HOUSES $500,001–$650,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MBIB

PERFECT SYNERGY Vibrant and contemporary, the Synergy is a double-storey design that oozes architectural style and elegance both on the outside and within. Like its name suggests, the Synergy Premier Twin masterfully combines all the best features that Masterton is famous for and puts them under the same roof to create the perfect synergy. Designed to help ease the financial squeeze being placed on Australian families, the Synergy Premier Twin offers dual comfort, functionality and style with an integrated granny flat. The ingenious floor plan means two independent yet intimate dwellings that maximise space and cater to the growing trend in multigenerational living. The new design also provides customers with a unique investment opportunity, with the potential to earn extra income by renting out the granny flat. With access to the granny flat at the side of the home, the design ensures that both households have ample privacy. The main residence of the home is equipped with a two-car garage on the main floor as well as a living/home theatre

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

and study. The open-plan living on the ground floor is spacious and allows for great entertainment capabilities. The first floor has four bedrooms with a master suite to impress, its own walk-in wardrobe and bathroom. A second main bathroom on the first floor and lounge room allows for a spacious second open-plan living area. An integrated granny flat with a bedroom, full-capacity kitchen, bathroom and laundry makes it easy for multigenerational living, and open-plan living gives a spacious feel to a whole separate living space. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: This is not the average project home that we were expecting. The design was the first thing that stood out as more of an architectural home. The quality of finishes and materials used were put together with excellent workmanship. Well done!

MASTERTON HOMES PTY LTD

Tel: 1300 446 637 Licence number: 35558C Design: Custom Design Photography: Tim Robinson

2020 MBA Excellence in Housing Awards Winner Contract Houses $500,001 to $650,000 2020 National Excellence in Building & Construction Awards Finalist

Award-winning custom home designs Our custom design service allows you to build a tailor-made home that’s truly one-of-a kind, designed for your lifestyle, your neighbourhood and your land. We all know a beautiful home when we see one, but designing one from scratch can be tricky. That’s where Masterton can help. We integrate innovative, superior quality design with affordable construction services, allowing you to build a home with unique features. Let us help you realise your dream, today.

1300 44 66 37

masterton.com.au

CONTRACT HOUSES $500,001–$650,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MBIB

BETTER BUILT HOMES

Tel: 1300 100 922 Licence number: 244242C Design: Glenbrook 45

BLUETONGUE HOMES PTY LTD

Tel: 9046 8000 Licence number: 195792C Design: The King 41 GF Photography: Hand In Hand

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

CONTRACT HOUSES $650,001–$800,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MBIB

DREAM BUILD According to Matthew Minard of MJ Minard, this house was a dream to build — it was finished under the tender price, was completed three weeks early and also took the team back to its roots as carpenters. It’s a house just like their fathers would have built, but with a few modern twists. The majority of the house was built by Matthew’s team of carpenters. They formed the concrete slab, kerb, gutter and footpath; built and installed the hand-cut wall, floor and roof frames; installed the roofing, gutter guard, all window hoods and cladding; installed and set the plasterboard; installed the fireplace heater and flue; completed all the carpentry fitout including decking; and all soft and hard landscaping. Standout features include the powdercoated window hoods, blackbutt staircase with blackbutt screen and V-joint ceilings throughout. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: One of the smallest houses to be judged this year, with nowhere to hide any mistakes, but showing great detailing. The tight site proved challenging and gave another set of problems. Outstanding workmanship throughout. An excellent job.

MJ MINARD PTY LTD

Tel: 0407 017 706 Licence number: 206364c

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

CONTRACT HOUSES $650,001–$800,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MBIB

SHAWOOD BY SEKISUI HOUSE

Tel: 1800 951 068 Licence number: 226045C Design: SHAWOOD Type NE22

VIVA LIVING HOMES

Tel: 1300 929 111 Licence number: 229457C Design: Hampton Heights Photography: Simone Cottrell

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

CONTRACT HOUSES $650,001–$800,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MBIB

Avanti Projects Group Pty Ltd

Tel: 0412 315 725 Licence number: 297184C Design: Casa Gauci Photography: Connor Duncan

Hall & Hart Homes Pty Limited

Tel: 8662 0037 Licence number: 275897C Design: Elyse 36 Custom Hamptons Photography: Element Real Estate

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

CONTRACT HOUSES $650,001–$800,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MBIB

CONSTRUCTION BY DESIGN (NSW) PTY LTD

Tel: 8882 9012 Licence number: 221981C Design: Parsons Circuit Residence

MJ MINARD PTY LTD

SHAWOOD BY SEKISUI HOUSE

HALL & HART HOMES PTY LIMITED

AVANTI PROJECTS GROUP PTY LTD

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

CONTRACT HOUSES $800,001–$1 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MBIB

SIMPLE YET STUNNING Located in Harrington Grove is this stunning two-storey home with four large bedrooms, a three-car garage, five bathrooms/toilets, 2.7m-high ceilings on the ground and first floors, a floating staircase and an 8m x 4m in-ground pool. External finishes include a flat roof design with parapet walls and a combination of face brick and render. To help overcome construction difficulties, Antara Homes used Masterwall polystyrene wall cladding, a fibreglass-reinforced insulating system specifically developed to meet Australian conditions. The complete system includes the application of approved acrylic render systems, frame wraps, trims, sealants and opening flashings that combine to create a lightweight, weather-tight building envelope. The lightweight construction allowed Antara Homes to span a 11m steel beam, creating seamless flow to the corner bi-fold door leading out to the alfresco without the need for a corner support post.

JUDGES’ COMMENTS: This is a wonderful family home with impressive living spaces and good use of natural light. It has attractive street appeal with the use of different materials. The house is a simple construction but with good use of quality finishes throughout.

ANTARA HOMES

Tel: 0438 609 904 Licence number: 265939C Photography: Emanuel Colompar

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

CONTRACT HOUSES $800,001–$1 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MBIB

BUILDCRAFT CONSTRUCTIONS

Tel: 8814 7701 Licence number: 162141C Design: Concord

HALL & HART HOMES PTY LIMITED

Tel: 8662 0037 Licence number: 275897C Design: Elyse 48 Modern Photography: Element Real Estate

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

CONTRACT HOUSES $800,001–$1 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MBIB

Hall & Hart Homes Pty Limited

Tel: 8662 0037 Licence number: 275897C Design: Elyse 42 Contemporary Photography: Element Real Estate

Boerma Brothers Construction

Tel: 0433 345 504 Licence number: 314269C Design: Burraneer Hamptons House

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

CONTRACT HOUSES $800,001–$1 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MBIB

SLD PROJECTS PTY LTD

Tel: 9606 2101 Licence number: 252316C Design: Austinmer Residence

ANTARA HOMES

HALL & HART HOMES PTY LIMITED

100 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

BUILDCRAFT CONSTRUCTIONS

BOERMA BROTHERS CONSTRUCTION

CONTRACT HOUSES $1 MILLION–$1.5 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MBIB

EARTHY ELEGANCE This Young Homes’ creation was designed to capture tactile sophistication while also reflecting some key elements of Hamptons style. The earthy elegance of the home is immediate from its street presence. Balance has been achieved through the use of mixed materials including a tailored Colorbond roof, a beautiful stone porch and the extensive use of glass. Two large chimneys add to an impressive roofline that takes its multi-planed shape from the considered architecture of the internal spaces. The home wraps around a 13m-long pool at the rear, repeating the use of stone in the external fireplace of the cabana. The interiors of the home have been finished to the high level of specification required by the clients. The front door opens to a double-height stepped foyer that draws the eye up to a custom-designed, streamlined glass and timber balustrade — clean-lined, high-spec materials that are repeated in the home’s staircase design. The extent of the custom build is further

reflected in the ribbed timber panelling that sits within the double-height niches of the foyer. Lighting was incorporated within the niches at the time of design to ensure that the niches make a strong aesthetic statement from both levels of the home. The library features a multi-planed vaulted ceiling that was constructed on site. Floating and open custom shelving also feature as the library steps down to the dining room and its 4m-high vaulted ceiling. Two internal fireplaces abut to separate the dining room from the large family room. A dwarf wall ensures that an impressive glass wine cupboard can be seen from both the dining and family rooms. The cabinetry throughout the kitchen, butler’s pantry and four bathrooms has been constructed to a very high-end, customdesigned specification. The kitchen’s island bench features the same ribbed detailing that is seen in the foyer and provides highly tactile elegance to the space. Miele and Schweigen appliances, Silestone benchtops, floating cabinetry in the bathrooms and

high-end tiling throughout assist in providing sophisticated flow throughout the home. The home’s five bedrooms embrace both the simple lines of modernity and the sophistication of clever tactile design. It is a home that is at once both warm and highly liveable for family, and a sophisticated space for entertaining guests. While it is a large home at 68 squares, it has been designed with environmental responsibility in mind. Seventeen solar panels were strategically installed on the roof; plus there’s also a 10,000-litre water tank; insulation to the walls, ceiling and roof and low-E smart glass to windows. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: A well-appointed large five-bedroom family home of approximately 640m², the design has great living aspects and mix of materials throughout. Excellent finishes and great value for money.

YOUNG HOMES

Tel: 9836 2255 Licence number: 4850

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 101

CONTRACT HOUSES $1 MILLION–$1.5 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MBIB

BCD BUILDING PTY LTD

Tel: 9487 5715 Licence number: 209636C Design: Project Wahroonga Photography: Hannah Blackmore Photography

HAMPTONS HOMES SYDNEY

Tel: 0422 129 184 Licence number: 201005C Design: Davidson

102 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

CONTRACT HOUSES $1 Million–$1.5 Million PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MBIB

Customconstruction Pty Ltd

Tel: 0416 255 441 Licence number: 242783C Design: Narraweena Project Photography: Simon Whitbread

Better Built Homes

Tel: 1300 100 922 Licence number: 244242C Design: Mayfair Springs

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 103

Construction by Design (NSW) Pty Ltd

Tel: 8882 9012 Licence number: 221981C Design: Womurrung Avenue Residence

Gremmo Homes Pty Ltd

Tel: 9629 9509 Licence number: 125862C Design: Abbott Residence

104 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

CONTRACT HOUSES $1 Million–$1.5 Million PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MBIB

TCM Construction Group P/L

Tel: 0405 451 880 Licence number: 294713C Design: Driftwood

Customconstruction Pty Ltd

Hamptons Homes Sydney Better Built Homes

Construction by Design (NSW) Pty Ltd

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 105

CONTRACT HOUSES $1.5 MILLION–$2 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MBIB

BAYSIDE BEAUTY This contemporary new build residence, designed by Fox Johnston Architects, is comprised of four storeys cut into a very steep sandstone site, with limited access and neighbouring building directly on the boundaries. The architecture consists of a striking mix of off-form concrete, polished structural slabs, painted face brickwork, birch veneers, accoya-framed timber windows, cedar batten screening, aluminium window canopies and heavily textured render, all overlooking Mort Bay with views of the city skyline. Many of the finishes within the house are structural elements, with minimal finishes increasing the challenge and need for precise services coordination during the construction phase. These elements include polished structural concrete slabs, brickwork left either exposed or paint finish over, off-form

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concrete soffits, and exposed sandstone excavation in the garage. Challenges included construction over a Sydney Water sewer main which required concrete encasement in very close proximity to the top of the driveway to the garage. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: A very interesting project on a tight site with deep excavation into rock. This initially caused a few drainage problems but this was rectified. The house has impressive detailing and materials have been blended well with great skill and expertise. The house satisfied the client’s expectations.

SQ PROJECTS PTY LTD

Tel: 9555 5190 Licence number: 235585C Design: Birchgrove Residence Photography: Nick Smith

PROJECTS

BUILDING, CONSTRUCTION & PROJECT MANAGEMENT SQ PROJECTS MULTI AWARD WINNING, MULTI-DISCIPLINARY B7+.&ERS

What makes us different is our trusted relationships with our partners – clients, architects and developers – and our great customer service. For us, building strong relationships is just as important as delivering outstanding results. www.sqprojects.com.au

CONTRACT HOUSES $1.5 MILLION–$2 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MBIB

NEW BEGINNINGS On the corner of two streets in East Lindfield sat an original dwelling, a 1960s white painted brick-veneer home at the end of its lifespan, and the family who owned it were looking for a new beginning. The family had architectural plans drawn up, with dreams of knocking down their existing home and constructing a new two-storey home in its place. The home, as designed, is a modern two-storey rendered split-level residence. The ground floor is brick-veneer spilt level and the first floor is Hebel veneer, with a flat Colorbond Basalt roof. The home takes full advantage of the block size, its corner position and slope of the land. The entry door and double garage were cleverly placed central in the home design, and in close proximity to the ground floor split-level stairs and the first floor stairs. Walking out to the hallway/foyer and down the split-level spotted gum staircase

108 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

is the dining, kitchen and lounge areas, with spotted gum flooring and 3.6m-high ceilings. The lower living area is spacious, open and flowing, and is an entertainer’s delight, with the lounge area opening out onto the tiled landing, covered merbau timber terrace deck and pool areas through glass bi-fold doors. A Vergola, with adjustable louvres and rain censors, helps to maximise the use of this area by enabling the living area to be extended far beyond the bi-fold doors.

JUDGES’ COMMENTS: Great value for money, this house sits on a large corner block. It comprises many levels that fit with the slope of the land. This is an expansive house with excellent detailing throughout. Great job!

WALTER HOMES PTY LTD

Tel: 9420 0833 Licence number: 93979C Design: Seto Custom

TO BUILD YOUR SIGNATURE MASTERPIECE ...

CONTRACT HOUSES $1,500,001 TO $2,000,000

... YOU WILL NEED SOME HELP FROM A MASTER BUILDER

Specialists in constructing exceptional homes of building excellence, distinction and style, that are tailored to our clients individual needs. So, if you are looking to build, give us call today to arrange your complimentary consultation meeting with us. What have you got to lose?

5/9-11 Chaplin Dr, Lane Cove West NSW 2066 | 02 9420 0833 dwalter@walterhomes.com.au | 0409 285 284 (David)

www.walterhomes.com.au

CONTRACT HOUSES $1.5 MILLION–$2 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MBIB

GREMMO HOMES PTY LTD

Tel: 9629 9509 Licence number: 125862C Design: The Maison

RAYFIELD CONSTRUCTIONS

Tel: 0402 127 897 Licence number: 205667C Design: Robinson Residence Photography: David Griffen Photography

110 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

CONTRACT HOUSES $1.5 MILLION–$2 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MBIB

Wales Built Pty Ltd

Tel: 0419 760 745 Licence number: 177586C Design: Ka-Nalu

Avalon Constructions

Tel: 0414 264 208 Licence number: 260858C Design: Tessellated House Photography: Clinton Weaver

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 111

CONTRACT HOUSES $1.5 MILLION–$2 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MBIB

Build By Design Pty Ltd

Tel: 0404 009 534 Licence number: 207183C Design: Coerabel House Photography: Brett Boardman

J Corp Construction

Tel: 0404 898 999 Licence number: 300675C Design: Biscoff Residence

112 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

CONTRACT HOUSES $2 MILLION–$2.5 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MBIB

BLOOD, SWEAT AND TEARS

Kiama Bends is the biggest project that Aspire Constructions has undertaken to date. It has also been the most challenging build that the company has done, and as a team has been rewarded with the amazing outcome. This was a stunning site, and due to its location on the South Coast, Aspire Constructions had to deal with natural elements that it has previously never dealt with. The main weather condition was that the location was subject to high winds and gusts, and at one point early in the build, a site container was lifted and moved by a strong gust! The site was also virgin farmland, so Aspire Constructions was engaged to manage the civil works of site access road into site. The team had never built a road before, so this was a great learning experience. Site access was very difficult for trades and trucks. The shape of the land itself was an issue to overcome — the building is on four different levels. The master bedroom was built into the hill with a grass roof over the top. The board-form walls that the client wanted presented a huge challenge for the Aspire

team. They loved the look of the beautiful board-formed walls, using Oregon planks to have the rough grain finish come through, and didn’t want to use the standard tie system that would leave 30mm-40mm holes every half a metre. The team wanted a clean wall where you could see feature of the board-form concrete. They found innovative fibreglass ties, the Canzac Supertie Fibreglass Form Tie System, which were smaller than the standard ties here and imported them from the United States. This allowed for minimal sight of ties with the board-form concrete to create a more seamless finish. Aspire struggled to find form workers within budget who could work with the system and deliver a high level of finish, so after much deliberation, decided to do the board-form walls themselves. This was a huge learning curve for the team. Dealing with a major design change of converting the now lower bedroom from the garage and coming up with the new garage and pool for the client midway through the build reminded Aspire that builders always need to flexible to help clients build the home that they want. As the client sought to add more rooms within the original garage

space below, Aspire Constructions conveyed its design ideas to the client and then the architect was engaged to bring those plans to life. The build was then extended with an underground garage built into the hill and stunning horizon pool over the top. Looking back on the Kiama Bends project, Aspire Constructions invested a lot of blood, sweat and tears that in turn brought this special build to life. The entire team is so proud of this project and the clients also love their new home on the beautiful South Coast. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: This house is built on the green coastal slopes of southern NSW with magnificent views of the ocean. The large cantilevers in off-form concrete made it a very difficult project and comprised many complicated details. These have been executed with quality craftsmanship and the attention to detail is second to none. Excellent job.

ASPIRE CONSTRUCTIONS

Tel: 7903 0282 Licence number: 221063C Design: Kiama Bends Photography: Ben Mackay

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 113

CONTRACT HOUSES $2 MILLION–$2.5 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MBIB

OCEAN ESCAPE The ocean is a vital part of Australia’s heritage and culture and with such a vast coastline, the draw of the ocean is inescapable for most Australians. These clients approached Gremmo Homes with a desire to create a sophisticated dwelling that celebrated the magnificent ocean position. The chosen aesthetic was one of honest material clarity and expression, allowing for fundamental rawness within the selected materials of glass, stone and natural timber. Contemporary styling complements the raw texture of the finishes and brings a casual purity to the home. From the façade, Greenhills Escape encompasses a pair of rectilinear volumes stacked atop one another, giving the home the identity of true contemporary design. Internally, the home offers naturally illuminated spaces that provide functionality and carefully considered zoning. Greenhills Escape provides an introspective aspect and a welcoming home to an adult family of three. Incorporating the use of open spaces by using full-height glazing and an entrance that demands visual continuity from the front door through to the back fence, Greenhills Escape is a carefully considered dwelling with choreographed lines and dimensions. With

114 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

several volumes and heights, the orientation allows for an abundance of natural light to fill the main living areas and a continuous flow of form between zones. Clutter-free and seemingly spare joinery is warm and inviting thanks to the use of tactile finishes. The monumental island defining the kitchen responds directly to the client’s brief for a highly contemporary living experience. The butler’s pantry delivers an abundance of concealed appliances, while beautiful craftsmanship delivers a jewel-like interior. On the first floor are spacious sleeping quarters, dedicated and completely private bathrooms, and a master suite that opens to an outdoor terrace overlooking the ocean. Meanwhile, the second floor is a luxurious haven designed for entertaining and celebrating. Every detail has been considered, including integrated appliances, seamless joinery and wine storage. Designing and building amid the changing nature of the sea presents with challenges for house design. For Greenhills Escape, this included a difficult building site, high winds, sea salt spray, and ensuring privacy while enhancing the 360-degree view. Gremmo Homes incorporated a thoughtful and articulated design to avoid immense walls and

address the issue of wind loads. Through the modular design and the inclusion of custom louvred screens, it was able to aesthetically soften the exterior as well as reduce the wind impact. From the joinery through the dwelling, to the honest and robust materials, timeless layout, quality fixtures and fittings and exquisite pool, no detail has been forgotten in the design and build of this magnificent home. It is a true celebration and representation of the clients’ personalities and desire to create a sophisticated home where family could entertain with loved ones in a flexible, innovative space. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: The glass, stone and natural timber used on this build have come together with an infusion of colour to create a modern home that takes full advantage of the stunning coastal views. A complex and challenging site but with a high standard of craftsmanship resulted in an award-winning build and perhaps more importantly, happy homeowners.

GREMMO HOMES PTY LTD

Tel: 9629 9509 Licence number: 125862C Design: Greenhills Escape

CONTRACT HOUSES $2 MILLION–$2.5 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MBIB

GREMMO HOMES PTY LTD

Tel: 9629 9509 Licence number: 125862C Design: The Pavillion

BLUE ECO HOMES

Tel: 02 4754 5608 Licence number: 197017C Design: Wentworth Falls

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 115

CONTRACT HOUSES $2 Million–$2.5 Million PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MBIB

Ferrocon (Aust) Pty Ltd

Tel: 0409 729 312 Licence number: 68220C Design: Hideaway House Photography: Tom Ferguson

HP Constructions Pty Ltd

Tel: 0400 516 096 Licence number: 282978C

116 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

CONTRACT HOUSES $2 MILLION–$2.5 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MBIB

GRAYBUILT PTY LTD

Tel: 0419 606 592 Licence number: 193797C Design: 2X2 HOUSE Photography: Simon Whitbread

NEWMARK CONSTRUCTIONS

Tel: 9188 0708 Licence number: 218398C Design: Palm Beach Blue Photography: Tom Ferguson

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 117

CONTRACT HOUSES $2 MILLION–$2.5 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MBIB

MILESTONE BUILDING PTY LTD

Tel: 0412 366 551 Licence number: 262299C Design: Tree House — Bronte

M / 0425 288 390 E / INFO@BAUGROUP.COM.AU A / 9/10 PROSPERITY PARADE, WARRIEWOOD NSW 2102 WWW.BAUGROUP.COM.AU

118 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

CONTRACT HOUSES $2.5 MILLION–$3 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MBIB

THE BEAUTY OF TIMBER This two-storey, architecturally designed home is timber clad and completely reliant on the carpentry to the house, with the timber features being key to the architectural design. With the carpentry being the hero of this build, exposed timber was used, both internally and externally. Internally, V-grooved ceilings and wall linings feature throughout. Highly detailed coffered ceilings were created, along with sandstone-clad fireplaces and an in-ground swimming pool. Externally, oversized trim detailing was exposed and the home clad with Scyon cladding. All rafters were exposed and there was tricky detailing required, with aluminium that mimicked the exposed timber finish. With a strict budget in place, Bau Group worked closely with the architects and clients as the original design incorporated an underground basement that was removed. The finished project was brought in ahead of schedule, and took just 11 months to complete. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: The external cladding of the home achieves a timber look using Scyon lining boards incorporating stone

panels. The interior has a mix of plasterboard walls, timber floors and stairs, along with timber windows and coffered timber ceilings, all beautifully executed with exceptional attention to detail. The home design captures a lot of natural light that flows out into the external entertainment area, including a pool.

BAU GROUP

Tel: 0425 288 390 Licence number: 172656C Design: Wallis Pde Nth Bondi

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 119

CONTRACT HOUSES $3 MILLION–$4 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MBIB

120 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

have steel reinforcement core holed through to allow them to act as a retaining wall. Every block was numbered, set out and marked prior to on-site drilling and assembly. The main house’s structural-steel frame was fabricated, fully erected and tested off site to ensure it could be installed on site to within millimetre accuracy as the architect would not allow structural grout between the concrete and steel connections. The site’s extreme coastal environment also meant no cutting and welding of structural steel on the site; a full 3D computer model of the complete structure was drawn up prior to fabrication to avoid this. The internal walls that divide the space were set out exactly to suit the width of the 130mm boards which did not allow for expansion and contraction from room to room. The skill and knowledge of the carpenters was tested to introduce some form of movement control into the building. The treads of the stair to the mezzanine are supported by a structural timber wall only 76mm thick and are set out at 260mm wide to match the adjoining vertical timber boards. The complex curve of the main structural roof created challenges — both in the copper roofing above and the ceiling below. Standing seam sheets were individually hand cut as required to allow even spacing of the seams and compensate for the bi-directional curving of the roof. The plywood sheets that form the ceiling below were individually hand cut by the carpenters on site to create the even shiplap pattern that aligns to key grid lines. The ceiling sheets were delivered pre-finished and it took five carpenters wearing cotton gloves to press each sheet to the curve of the roof.

The ceiling-to-glazing details and changing roof pitch to the north side meant a reversal of the standard building process was required. The finished ceiling was required to be installed before the highlight glass that sealed the building. The bespoke nature of the joinery and the integration of finishes to the structure of the house meant that some finished joinery items were installed as the building was closed up. The salt-laden environment and constant sand blowing through the house made protecting finished elements extremely challenging. The design of the house allowed did not allow typical flashings or details to stop water ingress; all timber door jambs were installed with a hidden weather bar routed into the concrete behind in place of traditional storm moulds. The fixed glazing to the ground floor was installed directly to the structural concrete against exposed brass weather bars cut directly into the concrete. The large amount of custom finishes meant that a lot of the finishing work on site was carried out using Capital Construction & Refurbishing’s own direct labour. The company’s own carpenters formed and poured all off-form concrete; including both structural works and non-structural benchtops. They installed all sliding doors and raked windows and also directly worked with all sub-contractors on site to ensure work was carried out to the highest standards. This format allowed Capital Construction & Refurbishing to have control over the quality of finishes, ensuring both client and architect satisfaction. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: Named the ‘Basin Beach House’, this is one of those building designs that would challenge even the best builders, but Capital Construction nailed it. The structural design and installation required expertise, attention to detail and extreme accuracy to achieve the desired outcome of both the owner and architect. The interior also had its challenges due to the structural shape that required expert skill and craftsmanship, all of which was captured and executed with precision. Capital Construction has delivered a magnificent eye-catching building that will be admired for years.

CAPITAL CONSTRUCTION & REFURBISHING PTY LTD

Tel: 9437 6222 Licence number: 24018C Design: Basin Beach House

CONTRACT HOUSES $3 MILLION–$4 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MBIB

BAU GROUP

Tel: 0425 288 390 Licence number: 172656C Design: Woorak House Photography: Prue Ruscoe

GRAYBUILT PTY LTD

Tel: 0419 606 592 Licence number: 193797C Design: Church Point House Photography: Katherine Lu

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 121

CONTRACT HOUSES $3 Million–$4 Million PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MBIB

3Corp Pty Ltd

Tel: 0418 184 444 Licence number: 129783C Design: Killara

Capital Construction & Refurbishing Pty Ltd

Bau Group 3Corp Pty Ltd

Graybuilt Pty Ltd

122 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

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1800 150 888

CONTRACT HOUSES $4 MILLION–$5 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY TOYOTA

124 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

72 Shortland Avenue, Strathﬁeld NSW 2135 m 0411

RENBARCONSTRUCTIONS Development | Design | Construction

173 492

www.renbar.com @renbarconstructions

CONTRACT HOUSES $4 MILLION–$5 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY TOYOTA

NATURAL BEAUTY The design of 2ma House intends to blend the soft lines and contrasting textures in respect to the natural beauty of the locality. The balance between the solid and void optimises the site views across the Parramatta River while insulating private spaces from the adjoining large dwellings. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: This home consists of off-form concrete and stonework, all beautifully fused and executed to achieve a wonderful combination of different materials. The builder achieved excellent quality control of the interior finishes throughout, incorporating design complexity without compromise to the interior finishes.

RENBAR CONSTRUCTIONS PTY LTD

Tel: 0411 173 492 Licence number: 185564C Design: 2ma House Photography: Murray Harris Photography

126 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

CONTRACT HOUSES $4 MILLION–$5 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY TOYOTA

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 127

CONTRACT HOUSES $4 MILLION–$5 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY TOYOTA

GRAYBUILT PTY LTD

Tel: 0419 606 592 Licence number: 193797C Design: Bangalley Photography: Michael Nicholson

MLP CO PTY LTD

Tel: 9417 2000 Licence number: 262329C Design: Freshwater Residence Photography: Simon Wood

128 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

CONTRACT HOUSES $4 MILLION–$5 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY TOYOTA

3CORP PTY LTD

Tel: 0418 184 444 Licence number: 129783C Design: Balmoral

RENBAR CONSTRUCTIONS PTY LTD

MLP CO PTY LTD

GRAYBUILT PTY LTD

3CORP PTY LTD

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 129

CONTRACT HOUSES $5 MILLION–$7 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY TOYOTA

NO PLACE TO THROW STONES This recently completed project is the ultimate Sydney beach house, located in a prime position overlooking Bronte and Tamarama beaches. From the street, this residence is a commanding four-level structure, built predominantly in concrete and masonry. The lower ground and ground floors of the house feature sandstone and rammed earth walls. The project involved a very complex demolition of the existing house, which was elevated from the street on a steep site. Once the existing house was demolished, rock excavation began, with approximately 1500m³ of rock removed. The lift shaft was constructed out of glass blocks, which were a challenge to work with. The structural steel had to be set out to work to brick courses as the glass blocks cannot be cut. Surrounding the lift

130 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

shaft over the four levels is a steel-framed staircase with glass treads. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: Kinn Construction has again produced an excellent home which includes unique design challenges. The construction consisted of off-form curved concrete with large spans over openings and curved glass. The quality of the interior finishes not only looks fantastic but was also executed with perfection. Some of the glass features include glass treads to the stairs, glass panels in the floor and glass blocks encapsulating the lift. The design and finishes capture exceptional views to the ocean and incorporate a balance of natural light throughout the upper floors.

KINN CONSTRUCTION

Tel: hello@kinn.com.au Licence number: 131439C Design: Pacific View Point House Photography: Nicholas Watt (external photos) and Prue Ruscoe (internal photos)

CONTRACT HOUSES $5 MILLION–$7 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY TOYOTA

A REWARDING RESULT The overall extremely difficult build of this beautiful home was as a result of its location. Not only were bus stops located on either side of the street fronting the site, which made life difficult for deliveries and access, but the site also fell dramatically from street level down to the existing home. Demolition and simply removing material was never an easy task. The site was all sand, so the excavation/shoring/piling component of the works brought plenty of headaches that required much attention to prevent slippages and issues with neighbours. A sewer line running deep across the rear of the site transferred vibrations from excavation machinery up to 100m in either direction of the pipe, requiring a huge amount of time and resources to manage the neighbours and local council. The changes of design for contiguous piling, shoring and screw piles kept the project team busy for several months. Once the foundations of the home were in place, steady progress was achieved

through the concrete and masonry structure works. Given the nature of the site, access was very restrictive, and labour in order to transfer materials around the site was enormous. Some of the real challenges, apart from shoring up the site and removal of materials during demolition, were in the installation of marble slabs in the master bedroom ensuite and to the fireplace surround. The vertical and horizontal movement of many of the slabs required up to eight people, along with ramps and hoists to move the slabs into place without damaging materials or people. Landscaping and the pool on the lower level of the home again created access and material handling issues. This required a large amount of management, however, the pool and stone surrounds look stunning from all levels of the home. With the finish line clearly in sight for the team, approximately six months from completion, a hailstorm damaged the zinc roofing, which unfortunately resulted in the

entire house having to be re-roofed in the final stages of construction. Regular design improvements throughout kept everyone on their toes. The nature of the site and complex build required much more labour than was expected, and the administration was also very time-consuming, however, the final result was very rewarding. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: PCM Projects had its fair share of difficulties with this build, design and execution due to the nature of the substructure and slope of the land. The build included the demolition of the original home and all external landscaping, including the pool. The external cladding comprises different materials complementing the finished look. The interior consists of a range of materials including marble, some being full-sized slabs to minimise joints.

PCM PROJECTS

Tel: 9979 8528 Licence number: 228139C

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 131

CONTRACT HOUSES $5 MILLION–$7 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY TOYOTA

CRITHARIS CONSTRUCTIONS

Tel: 9531 2312 Licence number: 32814 Design: Hill House Photography: Anson Smart and Nicholas Watt

KINN CONSTRUCTION

CRITHARIS CONSTRUCTIONS

132 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

PCM PROJECTS

CONTRACT HOUSES $7 MILLION–$8 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY TOYOTA

A TRULY MASTER -BUILT HOME The architecture of the Calabro Residence, designed by TKD, brought about some challenging yet great aspects to this build, which made the job of Komplete Construction even more exciting. The house was designed around having boardform feature walls both internally and externally, a concept that came from the client seeing Komplete Construction’s completed Short Lane apartments at Bourke Street, Surry Hills. The main internal boardform wall runs from the basement up to the first floor as the balustrade. Due to the staircase’s 100mm shadowline rebates on each side of the stairs, Komplete had to build “in reverse” as the extensive formwork required to build the stairs would damage the finished boardform wall. This meant that the stairs were built before the wall. The wall then required additional formwork engineering as the stairs were technically breaking the wall into several sections. Komplete had its skilled carpenters spend weeks on lining the formwork with roughsawn oregon, which was hand selected by Komplete’s director and the team and specifically monitored to give the client the best possible finish to the boardform. The end result is, according to Komplete, some of best examples of boardform concrete that you will ever see. The external corners line up beautifully, with no slurry loss, and the attention to detail is superb. The boardform walls continue outside in the lanai entertaining area, where at opposite ends one wall houses an open wood

fireplace, while the other is the barbecue. This area was quite challenging as the soffit is off-form concrete. This soffit was also complex due to the mass concrete required to make floor levels work above, and the need to cast two huge 9m beams into this soffit above the off-form deck. These beams hold the pool deck roof cantilever. Another great feature was perfecting the mechanically fixed stone wall cladding at the front of the house. Great set out and time was taken to ensure a perfect random pattern was maintained among the sharp open joint lines. The house is a truly master-built home — with a very happy architect and an even happier client. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: Although this building may look quite simple from the

exterior, Komplete Construction had numerous design challenges to overcome. The external finishes incorporate a mixture of off-form concrete, tiles, stone and zinc cladding, not only achieving the desired look but with excellence. One of the many challenges meant that Komplete had to build the internal stairs during the construction phase to retain the overall designed appearance of the stairwell. The quality, execution and level of detailing of the external and interior finishes were excellent.

KOMPLETE CONSTRUCTION PTY LTD

Tel: 0410 555 646 Licence number: 60830C Design: Calabro Residence

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 133

CONTRACT HOUSES $8 MILLION–$10 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY TOYOTA

SENSE OF RETREAT Elevated on a dramatically sloping site at Point Piper, Wingadal House is a luxury residence providing a sense of retreat while maximising the potential of its prominent location and spectacular panoramic views across the city and harbour. The new building reconciles intricate planning with a complex site, and is characterised by its three terraced floors that step and splay down the sloping terrain. Situated at the end of a narrow cul-desac, visitors arrive through an intimate front sculpture court slipping past the curved boundary wall of Wondabyne sandstone into the upper level of the house. Perched atop the sandstone volumes below, this open-plan, predominantly steel and glass structure encompasses the living, dining and kitchen areas under a curved barrel-vaulted roof, with a unique ceiling of hand-woven copper held delicately aloft by bands of frameless glazing. Full-height sliding windows allow the external boundaries to peel away, opening onto landscaped terraces and maximising views of Sydney Harbour. Connected through a series of recycled karri stairs suspended with copper rods, the two floors below within the sandstone volumes encompass the bedrooms, stonelined bathrooms, laundry facilities and service spaces. Integral to the design is this continually increasing sense of intimacy, privacy and retreat experienced descending through the house. These three storeys are continuously linked through a triple-height stepped courtyard and a series of terraced spaces

134 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

that serve to bring daylight and fresh air into the centre while visually connecting the individual levels and volumes. The external works also include extensive new landscaping, a lap pool, a Japanese outdoor bath, and a cabana/external study. Wingadal House is predominantly constructed in concrete and clad in locally sourced Wondabyne sandstone. The building form is characterised by its thick monolithic perimeter walls with a system of large-scale openings punctured through to selectively frame views. Contrasted against this is an overlaid copper brise soleil, creating a veiled shaded appearance to the perimeter glazing, while controlling views into and out from the building, and modulating light entering into the individual rooms and spaces. Internally, the natural stone detailing is complemented by the rich dark recycled karri hardwood that lines the floor, ceiling, solid timber full-height doors and joinery, and contrasted against the crisp white plaster walls and large clear glass panel windows. Copper is utilised throughout as accents and panelling, most strikingly as a textured weave lining for the barrel-vaulted roof. Bespoke brass light fittings, stone vanities, illuminated ribbed glass splashbacks, and copper door hardware are all custom designed to further enhance the artisanal nature of Wingadal House. The success of these processes can be attributed to collaboration between the builder, architect and many skilled fabricators resolving and testing solutions. A prime example is the custom copper woven vaulted ceiling which

required extensive prototyping to identify the correct patterning, bandwidth, tonality, construction methodology and panel size to achieve its shape and textured outcome. These collaborations were continuously drawn upon throughout the three-year construction process of Wingadal House. This was integral to reach the high level of design outcome expected by the clients, and resolve the complexities with building on a prominent harbourside location with a steep terrain and incorporating a series of existing built footings. The site required extensive geotechnical investigations into deriving a piling system and excavation process that would allow for the terracing of the form. This meticulously crafted nature of Wingadal House is due to its carefully sequenced experiences transitioning from exterior to interior environments, wandering between uninhibited landscapes and intimate sanctuaries. Wingadal House is a celebration of artisanal technique and a return to the bespoke. The house is an ode to the enrichment and craftsmanship that can be achieved through the persistence and collaboration of builders and architects striving to achieve the highest level of design quality. Every moment is carefully choreographed with perfectly framed views, a rich material palette that heightens the changing qualities of light through the day, and the delicate intimacy of every hand-crafted detail. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: Positioned at Point Piper with sweeping views of the harbour, this project had its difficulties, including building design, tight restricted access and material-handling issues due to the steep slope of the land. The structure incorporates a selection of materials including locally sourced Wondabyne sandstone, copper and recycled karri hardwood timber floors, walls and full-height doors. One of the main features of this home is the vast use of copper, not only in the external roofing but also the interior ceiling lining on the first floor of individual 50mm strips hand woven to achieve a plaited finish. The level of craftsmanship and quality of finishes were exceptional including the pool and landscaping at all levels.

PIMAS GALE PTY LTD

Tel: 9436 2299 Licence number: 292743C Design: Point Piper Photography: Rory Gardiner

CONTRACT HOUSES $10 MILLION–$11 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY TOYOTA

NOTHING STRAIGHT, SQUARE OR OFF THE SHELF Horizon was contracted to construct an exciting five-storey pair of luxury residences at Darling Point. The project was instantly identified as being very special due to its astounding location with an unobstructed city view; unique wave-like mosaic-tiled roof; and distinctive design details to make the overall design incredibly challenging, yet simple and clean to the observer. The structure of the home from the basement to Level 2 is a combination of offform concrete slabs and core-filled blockwork. The rest of the home, from Level 2 to the roof, is a combination of core-filled blockwork, fire-rated steelwork and reinforced concrete, forming window arches and part of the attic floor structure. The wave-like roof and upper level walls are a combination of steel frames, ply sheeting, multiple layers of membrane, CFC sheet and mosaic tiles. The floors feature tiles with underfloor heating, plus carpet and timber flooring, all framed for acoustic separation. Internal wall and ceiling finishes combine off-form concrete ceilings, hard-set walls, extensive glazing and joinery wall panels. The living room features a fireplace suspended from the ceiling and all joinery throughout the home is oak veneer accentuated with stone benchtops.

The two garages either side of the property are a highlight of the build, with custom curved walls fitted with motorised sliding panels, and all trims site templated, custom made and powder coated. As there is an option for a separate apartment to the Ground Floor, the building had to be built as a Type A construction, which required a substantial proportion of the building to be non-combustible or fire rated. As many of the features of Type A construction present bulky and unsightly building fabrics, the architect wanted to reduce these impacts with no compromises to room sizes. This was a challenging build for Horizon due to many site conditions. This included tight street access for removal of material and deliveries; deep excavation below street level and neighbouring floor levels involving caisson piles and capping beam and tight side boundaries. The site also fell away from the street and all deliveries had to be passed down; and there were minimal areas for storage, particularly until the building was enclosed. Many incumbent services mains are also directly adjacent to the front boundary. Integrating all fire rating, acoustic rating, waterproofing and thermal insulation elements made construction incredibly complicated on the roof, walls and floors. The roof was technically the most challenging element of the build — the

structure is a custom-formed steel portal frame with steel purlins fitted between the curved rafters. A layer of carefully bent plywood sheet and a proctor wrap moisture barrier was fixed onto the steel frame. Approximately 500 M12 bolts were fixed to the purlins and passed through the ply sheet to support the outer layer of the roof. Overall, the build’s key challenges included the tight site; highly detailed design with incorrect, incomplete or no detail; no room for error; off-form concrete ceilings and walls, with lights, showerheads, sensors and even windows and curtain tracks recessed into the slabs and walls; a complicated steel roof structure and highly detailed joinery throughout. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: For this five-storey complex build on a steep block in Darling Point with views over Sydney Harbour, the design had its challenges — not just because of the steep land, but due to the building structure itself. The curved design of steel and concrete had to be built with tight tolerances and incorporate the interior finishes. Horizon delivered an excellent building that met both the clients’ and architect’s expectations.

HORIZON

Tel: 9388 1050 Licence number: 50218C Design: Darling Point Residence

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 135

CONTRACT HOUSES $11 MILLION–$12 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY TOYOTA

MOSMAN MAGNIFICENCE Mosman House is a luxury home spread over four extensive levels including a 300m² basement level containing a gym with a pool viewing window, sauna, four-car garage and laundry room. The home also features an internal wine cellar with a natural sandstone backdrop; five oversized bedrooms; doubleheight entertainment room; multiple living areas; a large Italian-made kitchen; 90,000-litre pool; an indoor spa with a retractable skylight; an outdoor spa and expansive landscaped areas at the front, rear and sides of the property. Ground works included approximately 3000m³ of rock excavation on a steep sloped site with restricted laneway access and close-set neighbouring properties. This difficult phase was well managed, especially with the surrounding neighbours. The super-structure consisted of very detailed Class 2 off-form concrete to the external/internal walls. Key features of this included double-height double-sided walls, intricate fillets, rebates and cone tie details plus a true work of art at the front entry. This consisted of different-sized columns and beams, which has been likened to a modern day ‘Stonehenge’. This was formed and poured in one go to ensure consistency. The glazing was one of the biggest challenges and pushed many boundaries,

136 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

due to the architectural detailing. Aluminium doors by Vitrocsa were mainly pocket sliding and pivot doors. The remaining glazing by Reynaers Aluminium included a custom-designed operable flap. This allowed the entire home to naturally ventilate while maintaining security. Also supplied was a curtain wall that extended over three levels. The 20m customdesigned skylight was challenging due to the height restrictions and long spans. It integrated double-glazed panels, aluminium panels and operable sides. A custom 6.6m-long, stainless-steel ‘T’ beam was designed to replace the very deep steel beam. This was the main support for the pocket sliding doors below, plus with the two vertical struts above, they were used to set three very large pieces of fixed glass. Another highlight is the 12mm-thick aluminium balustrade, which spans over four levels and curved in both the rake of the flight and rolled under the stair. These were site welded together and hand painted on site. Each panel weighed more than 100kg, which made the installation process even more difficult. Main services include CBUS lighting, VRV air conditioning system and a ring circulating hot water system. High-level European finishes were sourced including imported Italian/Spanish tiles, Italian imported kitchens and joinery, Italian imported internal doors,

frameless “Sky Glass” balustrades and retractable sliding skylight roof. Another challenge was managing a non-English speaking client based abroad. However, this was overcome with great communication with the client’s representative. Despite the many challenges and intricate custom details, the project was still finished almost three weeks ahead of schedule. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: Primarily an off-form concrete structure with large spandrels and large cantilevered floor and roof panels over full-height glass windows and doors, this Mosman home spans over four levels with large glass panels to capture magnificent water views. The interior portrays a seamless design between the different elements. Many services had to be designed within the structural elements, with minimum tolerances down to the millimetre to ensure the desired outcomes and finishes were not compromised. The quality of finishes highlights the expertise and craftsmanship of all trades engaged on this project, an exceptional build.

LEXPOL GROUP PTY LTD

Tel: 9415 6255 Licence number: 285057C Design: Mosman House Photography: Simon Whitbread

CONTRACT HOUSES $12 MILLION–$18 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY TOYOTA

GREAT EXPECTATIONS Construction of this project was challenging, yet rewarding, due to the extremely high expectations and details set by the architect. The house consists of internal and external off-form concrete, which was specified to be as close to a Class 1 finish as possible. This included a strict inspection of each formboard, back screwing the sheets so there is no nail impregnation in the concrete, and having a maximum 1mm face step tolerance on the finished product at the sheet joins. After construction had already commenced, a late change by the client had the pool moved from the balcony to underground, turning one of the main structural walls beside the spiral staircase to a glass structural side wall of the pool. A section of the pool roof was also made in glass, level with the backyard to let natural light into the space. The steel spiral staircase running from the basement to the second floor was custom made and imported from Portugal. This was installed at an early stage of the build, and lowered down in pieces before the concrete rooftop was constructed. The staircase showcases excellent workmanship, and complements the glass pool wall, roof and a large fixed window looking into the backyard. This window was made overseas as local glass companies could not manufacture it locally due to its sheer size.

One of the most challenging aspects of the build was the 3mm shadowlines between the ceiling to the walls, walls to skirting, skirting to floor and joinery details, which took extensive time and set out. Another challenge was the vein/flow matched 800mm x 800mm Pietra marble slabs on the basement and ground floors. Banded parquet tallowwood was used on the first and second floors. No installer was willing to supply or guarantee select-grade timber for the specified lengths used, so Komplete sourced and installed it themselves. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: The structure is off-form concrete Class 1 design, which required extreme quality controls to achieve the brief of the architect and clients. The

interior required particular attention to detail, especially the transition between the different building elements and material finishes. There is an internal pool with glass viewing panels and specialised mechanical ventilation systems to maintain air quality from moisture and chemicals produced by the pool. The staircase is a masterpiece of design and construction, incorporating steel with timber treads and a handcrafted handrail featuring a central spiral core and seamless finishes throughout.

KOMPLETE CONSTRUCTION PTY LTD

Tel: 0410 555 646 Licence number: 60830C

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 137

CONTRACT HOUSES $18 MILLION & OVER PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY TOYOTA

IMMACULATELY CRAFTED House Taurus, designed by Durbach Block Jaggers Architects and located in Point Piper, boasts a 25m water frontage to Sydney Harbour. The site is an extreme battleaxe block and sits between Wolseley Road and the harbour, with a 30m height differential between the two ends. The handle of the axe from the street is 30m long, but only 3m wide. A three-storey concrete house and inclinator existed on the site previously and had to be demolished to create the new residence. House Taurus itself is curved off-form concrete. The design is punctuated by double-storey voids that run through the four levels of the main building. Irregular angled balconies and awnings protrude from the building around the façade. A large glass roof, more than 7m wide and made from a single pane of glass, was craned into position. It sits over one of the voids, which allows light in below and creates an architectural terrace above. A tunnel that links the house and street has a curved ceiling, starting at 2.5m high and becoming 6m in height, creating a spectacular entrance. The interiors, designed by Richards

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Stanisich Design, include bespoke finishes and details, many of which are one-off creations. House Taurus also involved a high level of co-ordination for the installation of a multitude of high-tech equipment. The house is fitted with a smart home system, including the front motorised sliding panel gate with an ornate iron design made in France. There are two lifts and an escalator, all commercial grade by Kone. House Taurus also features a triple-level car stacker, a sauna, jet spa, cool room and two Sub-Zero fridges. A 17m-long pool was built under one of the house voids and has an in-floor cleaning system, and a floating cover that can be automatically retracted to a well within the pool’s base. A boatshed is housed on the harbour beach. The careful execution of House Taurus demanded a high level of foresight, planning, detail resolution and strict attendance to building tolerances throughout every stage of the project. To achieve the construction program, Bellevarde Constructions provided management and trade resources to a number of workfronts concurrently to ensure that a highly integrated architectural design was built as well as it could be. To create the foundation for House Taurus, a substantial excavation had to be undertaken.

At the street entry, an 18m-deep shaft was cut out. A tunnel was dug, linking the main water frontage of the site to the street entry. The tunnel is 30m long, and at its deepest is more than 16m under natural ground level. The harbour frontage area of the site also had to be shored on three sides, anywhere from 3m to 9m deep. As the gradient was so significant, and access so restrictive, a piling rig could not be brought onto site. Instead, the shoring was undertaken by digging hand piles, rock anchoring these, then underpinning the piles, anchoring the underpinning in a sequence that went through the initial 4m of sand and then into rock. Two Sydney Water sewer mains ran through the site and had to be relocated. Both had to kept live during the works, with only a six-hour shutdown for the swapover. A new sea wall was built under the high tide mark. Overall, this residence is an immaculately crafted home and a prime example of an achievement made possible when many parties work together towards a central goal. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: An extremely difficult build on a battle-axe block spanning from an upper street level down to the Sydney Harbour foreshore, with more than 30m of height variance between the entry and harbour frontage. Manual handling and construction activities required the use of water barges, tower cranes, and complex machinery to create the base foundations. The property only has a small piece of land of about 40m² at street level, which incorporates a threecar stacker below ground. There’s a narrow strip of land for the external stairs linking the upper level to the foreshore, more than 30m long x 3m wide. A lift accesses the home at street level, with an 18m drop to a horizontal underground tunnel complete with an escalator at the lower end to access the home — an amazing concept and execution of building ingenuity. The build is of Class 1 off-form concrete, with curves and cantilevers to achieve the required outcomes. For accuracy, Bellevarde Constructions designed and manufactured the formwork in its own joinery shop and incorporated all services with precision. The overall project highlights the skills and expertise of Bellevarde Constructions and its team. BELLEVARDE CONSTRUCTIONS

Tel: 02 6295 2928 Licence number: 31493 Design: House Taurus Photography: Brett Boardman

TOWN HOUSES OR VILLAS/DUAL OCCUPANCY UP TO $400,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY APOLLO KITCHENS

SCANDI STYLE This contemporary Scandi-barn custom duplex was designed and built for a young and growing family and truly maximised their narrow block. Built in only 12 weeks, it also set a record sale price for the area. Sophisticated interiors in the Port Hacking duplex were designed by the Stables, and feature custom joinery throughout, matte black tapware and a state-of-the-art kitchen. Futureflip chose to a combination of James Hardie Axon cladding on the ground floor to create a sleek and contemporary feel, paired with James Hardie Linea weatherboard to give a coastal and classic look. Cladding the entire exterior meant that Futureflip was able to wrap the house in two days, saving at least two weeks when compared to other building methods. This was an extremely fast build time due to adopting commercial building principles and applying them to a residential project. A thorough build schedule was mapped out before the project began, ensuring that every day, trades were on-site to complete their part. This was overseen by a team of skilled

site supervisors who ensured a very highquality outcome in a short timeframe. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: This contemporary duplex in Caringbah was designed and built for a young growing family. To carry the clean, contemporary lines through, externally, the dwellings are finished with James Hardie Axon cladding downstairs and Linea weatherboard to the first floor and gables. Both homes are sleek and sophisticated and feature elegant fixtures and fittings throughout. Of course, the quality of finish has not gone unnoticed and the judges compliment the builder on achieving this on what is today a budgetpriced residence. The construction process, tight tolerances and transition between design elements, along with excellence in finishes, is magnificent.

FUTUREFLIP

Tel: 9540 9973 Licence number: 239666C Design: Port Hacking Photography: Lucas Muro

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 139

TOWN HOUSES OR VILLAS/DUAL OCCUPANCY UP TO $400,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY APOLLO KITCHENS

WORTHINGTON HOMES

Tel: 1300 301 138 Licence number: 222440C

FUTUREFLIP

Tel: 9540 9973 Licence number: 239666C Design: Yuruga Photography: Lucas Muro

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THE MBA CODE OF CONDUCT AND FAIR BUSINESS PRACTICE

Consumers and homeowners who deal with members of the Master Builders Association of New South Wales (MBA) can take comfort in knowing that all members of the MBA are required to subscribe to the association’s Code of Ethics and Code of Business Practice By joining the MBA, members give a commitment to adhere to the following principles:  Deal honestly and fairly with clients.  Recognise that fair and genuine competition is a fundamental service to which prospective clients are entitled.  Maintain a high standard of work and comply with the plans and specifications in the execution of all works undertaken.  Comply with prevailing building and construction codes for construction and work towards their improvement in the interests of structural efficiency, safety, and health.  Deal justly with employees and with those with whom members contract.  Conduct business so the health and safety of employees, of those with whom they contract and their employees, and of the community, are safeguarded.  Avoid all conduct or practice likely to discredit or do injury to the building construction industry and the MBA.  Cooperate in aiding the advancement of the building construction industry.



Take every opportunity to render community service.

In addition to subscribing to the Code of Practice, members who carry on a business are required to subscribe to a Code of Fair Business Practice. The guiding principles are:  Fair and equitable dealings with clients and other industry participants at all times.  Compliance not only with the law, but with the minimum industry standards of conduct prescribed in this code.  Accountability for any transgressions of this code.  Promotion of an efficient, competitive, and ethical building and construction industry.  Providing the client with the confidence that using an MBA member is a better way of building.  Provision of the framework to continue industry reform and, in particular, change the adversarial nature of commercial dealings to that of the partnering concept of utmost faith and fairness in all such dealings.

MBA members commit themselves to:  Act at all times with honesty, integrity, and responsibility, and in the spirit of good faith and fair dealing.  Engage in no conduct that is unfair, harsh, or unconscionable.  Engage in no practice which might tend to lower the standards applicable in the building and construction industry.  Observe both the spirit and the letter of the relevant laws of the Commonwealth, states, and territories in which they operate.  Understand the principle of fair trading legislation, including, but not limited to, the Trade Practices Act, by ensuring that all key management participate in appropriate educative training and compliance programs.  Bring any known breach of the code by a member to the attention of the MBA without delay.  Seek to further the objectives of the code.  Observe the principles of the code.

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 141

TOWN HOUSES OR VILLAS/DUAL OCCUPANCY $400,001—$600,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY APOLLO KITCHENS

BOUTIQUE COASTAL TOWNHOUSE This winning Woolooware townhouse, the front townhouse in the complex, comprises three oversized bedrooms, all with built-ins; master bedroom with designer ensuite and walk-in robe; two separate living areas; a private internal lift; double garage with internal access; gourmet kitchen and sun-drenched outdoor barbecue/entertaining area. There were a number of design difficulties with the project. The site is located over the top of an existing 1070mm x 1370mm concrete-lined sewer tunnel, which services the entire suburb, and the tunnel is directly located under this winning townhouse in the development. Extensive consultation occurred between Zedcon, its consultants and Sydney Water engineers was required to derive a suitable engineering solution. A piering solution was adopted to overcome excessive loads to the Sydney Water Asset. Maintaining the existing tree canopy on site, as well as mature trees on neighbouring sites, resulted in a reduction of the building footprint to avoid interfering with the tree protection zone. Considerable care was taken during construction to avoid any

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root damage under the supervision of an arborist. A permeable paving solution for the driveway was adopted to ensure the existing mature tree is maintained in good health. There were also privacy issues as the adjoining house on the southern elevation overlooks the site, in addition to this townhouse overlooking the northern neighbours. This was overcome with the subtle use of shutters to windows adjacent to boundaries. The construction of the townhouse was a combination of CSR Rediwall (200mm) and masonry veneer construction on the ground level. Level one used a combination of Hebel Powerpanel and James Hardie Scyon linear claddings along with a metal roof. The internal lift shaft was constructed out of 110mm CSR Rediwall. Innovation adopted on the project involved the use of CSR Rediwall (200mm) for a four-hour fire separation between all units. This was acoustically treated in habitable areas with an approved CSR Gyprock system.

JUDGES’ COMMENTS: The entry is part of a boutique coastal townhouse complex of three in Woolooware. The townhouse ideally suits a “downsizer” who does not want to compromise on room sizes and home comforts but does want to forgo the restrictions that a large home and garden put on one’s retirement lifestyle. The builder certainly had his challenges with an existing concrete-lined sewer tunnel traversing the block and existing tree canopies from this and neighbouring blocks that needed to be maintained. The quality of build, fixtures and fittings make this townhouse a worthy winner in this highly competitive category.

ZEDCON PROJECTS PTY LTD

Tel: 9531 7860 Licence number: 198798C Design: Driftwood Photography: Anthony Warry

An unwavering focus on quality workmanship and value for money across all our projects. Zedcon is a construction and civil contracting business operating out of the southern suburbs of Sydney since 2006. For construction we specialise in quality custom builds and developments both for clients and in house. We have a team of experienced and knowledgeable people on site and in house, who are the backbone of all our projects. Our process is designed to help customise individual requirements, avoid cost traps and make sure we achieve our clients vision. With an in house Civil Construction Division we are able to apply seamless vertical integration on all our projects from demolition to handover.

www.zedcon.com.au

Unit 2/139 Woolooware Road, Woolooware NSW 2230 P. 02 9531 7860 M. 0410 625 631

TOWN HOUSES OR VILLAS/DUAL OCCUPANCY $400,001—$600,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY APOLLO KITCHENS

PIONEER BUILDING GROUP

Tel: 9728 9885 Licence number: 215847C Photography: Mr Boyatte Zapata

SHAWOOD BY SEKISUI HOUSE

Tel: 1800 951 068 Licence number: 226045C Design: Donohue’s View — Parkside Terraces

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TOWN HOUSES OR VILLAS/DUAL OCCUPANCY $400,001—$600,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY APOLLO KITCHENS

WORTHINGTON HOMES

Tel: 1300 301 138 Licence number: 222440C Design: Town Homes on Lavender

KING HOMES NSW

Tel: 8795 0022 Licence number: 255669C Design: The Avenue Photography: Marian Riabic

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 145

TOWN HOUSES OR VILLAS/DUAL OCCUPANCY $400,001—$600,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY APOLLO KITCHENS

CONSTRUCTION BY DESIGN (NSW) PTY LTD

Tel: 8882 9012 Licence number: 221981C Design: Wade Street Duplex

ARCADIA PROJECTS & DESIGN PTY LTD

Tel: 0416 290 835 Licence number: 299142C Design: Paddison Ave

146 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

TOWN HOUSES OR VILLAS/DUAL OCCUPANCY $400,001—$600,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY APOLLO KITCHENS

FUTUREFLIP

Tel: 9540 9973 Licence number: 239666C Design: Church Photography: The Palm Co

PIONEER BUILDING GROUP

SHAWOOD BY SEKISUI HOUSE

CONSTRUCTION BY DESIGN (NSW) PTY LTD

ARCADIA PROJECTS & DESIGN PTY LTD

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 147

TOWN HOUSES OR VILLAS/DUAL OCCUPANCY $600,001 & OVER PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY APOLLO KITCHENS

DYNAMIC DUO Due to the unique diamond shape of this site, it was very difficult to design a duplex that satisfied the Development Control Plans. Thanks to the clever work of a good architect, Build Projects decided on this design, which created unique-style homes built around centrally positioned pools. The street frontage for each house is 33m, which allowed the homes to flow across, and for open-plan living to link the pool to the lounge room, kitchen, dining and onto the rear yard. Build Projects demanded no posts to support the suspended slab, to allow for

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a seamless look when the stacker doors around the pool are opened. This meant increasing the size of the steel bats and thickness of the concrete. The stacker doors close into each other and on a corner, while the stacker doors to the rear yard close into a pocket. Elliptical louvres maintain privacy in the courtyards between both homes. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: This Kingsgrove duplex was designed and constructed on a diamond-shaped block of land that formed the corner of two streets and required the homes to have two separate frontages. The two homes are built around centrally located private swimming pools and have

four very generous-sized bedrooms, two with private ensuite bathrooms and a ground floor guest suite. The homes feature an eclectic range of external cladding that surprisingly works well together and looks amazing. The judges made special mention of the sun-drenched entry and stairwell, the complexity of the construction and the splendid liveability of the homes.

BUILD PROJECTS

Tel: 0411 587 111 Licence number: 289279C Design: The Kingsway

TOWN HOUSES OR VILLAS/DUAL OCCUPANCY $600,001 & OVER PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY APOLLO KITCHENS

FUTUREFLIP

Tel: 9540 9973 Licence number: 239666C Design: Kirkwood Photography: Alexander Hoy

LUX BUILDING PTY LTD

Tel: 0409 833 166 Licence number: 248095C Design: Beach Retreat Photography: Grant Trouville

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 149

TOWN HOUSES OR VILLAS/DUAL OCCUPANCY $600,001 & OVER PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY APOLLO KITCHENS

PATTERSON BUILT PTY LTD

Tel: 8046 1311 Licence number: 277084C

BUILD PROJECTS

FUTUREFLIP

PATTERSON BUILT PTY LTD

LUX BUILDING PTY LTD

150 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

HOME UNITS UP TO $400,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY CBUS

AFFORDABLE LUXURY Cima is an affordable boutique development located in Sydney’s thriving Glenmore Park community, offering a superb selection of luxuriously appointed apartments and townhouses. Catering to the city’s growing demands, lifestyle balance and work requirements; Cima fashionably combines one- and two-bedroom units, two- and three-bedroom split-level units and two- and three-bedroom townhouses. Nestled high on the ridge, these spacious apartments have been thoughtfully and superbly designed to maximise space and to provide an abundance of natural light, while incorporating open-plan living. One of the biggest challenges faced by Mono Constructions was creating the perfect balance of space and size. The task was to go back to council to negotiate less apartments on the block — but at a much bigger size to create larger living spaces. Mono Constructions’ plea was successful, which resulted in superb apartments and townhouses where space is in abundance. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: High on the ridge of Glenmore Park boasts one- and two-bedroom units, two- and three-

bedroom split-level units and two- and three-bedroom townhouses — the Cima Glenmore Park complex. The two-bedroom apartment is located on the ground floor and demonstrates the superb selection of luxurious apartments that Mono Constructions can offer. The builder encountered challenges during the construction, which included going back to council to negotiate fewer apartments on the block, but still created a perfect balance of space and size when it came to putting

the end-user at the forefront, for larger living spaces. The judges were particularly impressed with the quality of the finish and the builders’ attention to detail, especially in the creation of a beautifully presented private courtyard, an extension to the living room.

MONO CONSTRUCTIONS PTY LTD

Tel: 9686 8899 Licence number: 158360C Design: Cima Glenmore Park

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 151

HOME UNITS UP TO $400,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY CBUS

CADENCE CONSTRUCTION

Tel: 1300 808 158 Licence number: 245809C Design: Summit Apartments

XL BUILD PTY LTD

Tel: 0419 398 444 Licence number: 190563C Design: 537 Elizabeth Photography: Trevor Mein

152 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

HOME UNITS UP TO $400,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY CBUS

BUILDFORM PROJECTS PTY LTD

Tel: 8596 8000 Licence number: 253138C Design: Gallerie Apartments Photography: Michael Anderson

DOSAN PTY LIMITED

Tel: 9150 5688 Licence number: 94606C Design: Breeze

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 153

HOME UNITS UP TO $400,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY CBUS

TQM DESIGN & CONSTRUCT PTY LTD

Tel: 9556 1046 Licence number: 123722C Design: Clarence Apartments

IMPERO CONSTRUCTIONS

Tel: 9400 0888 Licence number: 251100C Design: Lunar Apartments Photography: Dan Gosse

154 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

HOME UNITS $400,001–$600,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY CBUS

HERITAGE HARMONY Next Constructions undertook the design and construction of The Hensley, a mixeduse residential development in the heart of the city at Potts Point. The Hensley’s architectural intent is to coexist harmoniously with the heritage architecture of buildings in surrounding streets. The eight-level luxury development comprises of 44 apartments with a mix of one, two and three bedrooms. The building also has a two-level basement carpark and a commercial tenancy located on the ground floor. A communal rooftop terrace with three distinct areas was created to provide private nooks for entertaining or quiet relaxation, and has extensive views of the city skyline. Premium-quality internal finishes including porcelain benchtops, herringbone floors, exposed brick feature walls and elegant cabinetry, which capture the age of elegance of modernist styles with fine craftsmanship and rich materials. A major challenge for the project team was the tight, corner block site, which had limited access for materials handling and storage. Traffic management was paramount with the project team in sequencing works and

deliveries to mitigate the majority of traffic disruption to the busy neighbourhood. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: This eight-level luxury development comprising 44 apartments with a mix of one, two and three bedrooms, in the heart of the city at Potts Point, combines heritage architecture to the streetscape in surrounding streets. The Hensley development is located in a high-density living area surrounded by large residential buildings. The challenges the builder experienced were naturally the tight, corner block site, which had limited access for material handling

and storage. Even more challenging was to mitigate traffic disruptions to this busy neighbourhood with strict traffic management cycles. The judges were impressed with the quality of finish, attention to detail and the cordial relationship that still exists between the owner, builder and building manager.

NEXT CONSTRUCTIONS PTY LTD

Tel: 9550 6100 Licence number: 207853C Design: The Hensley

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 155

HOME UNITS $400,001–$600,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY CBUS

CADENCE CONSTRUCTION

Tel: 1300 808 158 Licence number: 245809C Design: Bayview 360

CUZENO BUILDERS & DEVELOPERS

Tel: 8708 4750 Licence number: 90079C Design: Allawah Central Photography: Brett Boardman

156 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

HOME UNITS $400,001–$600,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY CBUS

DIVERSIFIED GROUP PTY LTD

Tel: 1800 099 880 Licence number: 318622C Design: The Heights Photography: Emmet Bollard

NEXT CONSTRUCTIONS PTY LTD

CUZENO BUILDERS & DEVELOPERS

CADENCE CONSTRUCTION

DIVERSIFIED GROUP PTY LTD

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 157

HOME UNITS $600,001–$1 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY CBUS

TRANQUIL TREASURE Trésor, which means ‘Treasure’ in French, has just 17 apartments, specifically been designed for owner-occupiers, and comprises five oversized three-bedroom garden apartments, 10 oversized upper-level three-bedroom apartments (three of which enjoy city and harbour views) and two onebedroom apartments. Enveloping Trésor is a landscaped oasis, including large garden areas on title for the ground floor apartments and a 4m x 8.5m-high evergreen wall with highly articulated façades. There is a large area of communal open space, in a quiet location with a high level of privacy. This 255m² space is dedicated to the previous owners, the War Widows Guild of Australia. Because Trésor is on a corner site, HELM was able to maximise the design so that 12 of the 17 apartments have aspects on three sides. Not only does this improve natural cross-flow ventilation, but it also provides greater opportunities for views. The floorplans are designed to be highly functional, rational and efficient. Corridor and circulation space is limited to increase usable

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living space, services and wet areas are located close together where possible, and each apartment includes generous storage. A major attraction of living at Trésor is its natural leafy setting, giving residents the benefits of a tranquil oasis. Street trees and new trees to the street frontages of the site create an appropriate balance of landscaping and built form, and also complement and integrate with the existing treed streetscape. The project overcame significant development challenges, most notably a 4m fall across the site, the requirement to maintain existing ground levels to support significant trees on adjoining properties, council’s requirement for the two-level basement entry to enter from the highest point on either street, and responding to the surrounding heritage-listed items and heritage conservation zone. The design response was to divide the built form into two elegant three-storey buildings, separated by a welcoming centralised landscaped piazza and an impressive entry, incorporating the three-storey-high evergreen wall. The highly articulated façade has eye-pleasing recessed

elements, deep balconies, and a subtle, sophisticated colour palette. Substantial construction issues were overcome through sound pre-construction planning, negotiation and communication with adjoining and adjacent neighbours, all of whom were extremely complimentary of the process and have confirmed that they love the new addition to their street. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: A number of engineering challenges arose during the construction, mainly a 4m fall across the site, and having to maintain existing ground levels to support significant trees, while responding to the surrounding heritage-listed items and heritage conservation zone. The judges were most impressed with the ability of the builder to deliver quality of construction, with value for money and use of materials, to offer Trésor a beautiful natural leafy setting, giving residents the benefits of a tranquil oasis.

HELM

Tel: 8036 7400 Licence number: 227579C Design: Trésor Drummoyne

HOME UNITS $600,001–$1 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY CBUS

CEEROSE

Tel: 9571 9999 Licence number: 110672C Design: Atelier

PIMAS GALE PTY LTD

Tel: 9436 2299 Licence number: 292743C Design: Le Papillon

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 159

HOME UNITS $600,001–$1 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY CBUS

JAWARO GROUP PTY LTD

Tel: 8006 0002 Licence number: 272019C Design: Stark

TQM DESIGN & CONSTRUCT PTY LTD

Tel: 9556 1046 Licence number: 123722C Design: Billyard Apartments

160 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

HOME UNITS $600,001–$1 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY CBUS

GROWTHBUILT PTY LTD

Tel: 0419 637 465 Licence number: 182204C Design: The Surry Photography: Brett Boardman

IMPERO CONSTRUCTIONS

Tel: 9400 0888 Licence number: 251100C Design: On Bourke

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 161

HOME UNITS $1 MILLION & OVER PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY CBUS

A BOUTIQUE WORK OF ART The Crescent Darling Point is a multi-dwelling residential development comprising of exclusive, whole-floor apartments, and its design and construction provides owners and occupiers with an exceptional level of luxury and elegance. The boutique three-storey new residential building includes a new swimming pool, landscaping and basement car park following the demolition of an existing building and garages. Each unit is spread out over approximately 200m² of floor area consisting of large openplan living, three bedrooms with ensuites, guest powder room, internal laundry and a large designer kitchen with butler’s pantry overlooking open-plan living. This opens to wraparound terraces with dual sliding full-height Vitrocsa sliding doors. The ground floor unit has a rear landscaped courtyard and plunge pool overlooking the harbour. All units have secure and direct lift access to the unit as well as the basement car park. POCO Designs created sophisticated bespoke interiors that encapsulate opulence and highlight the site’s connection and proximity to Sydney Harbour. The interiors consist of the highest-quality luxury finishes including carved fluted marble benchtops, kitchen islands and feature walls; state-ofthe-art European Gaggenau, Liebherr and Miele appliances; home automation and European oak timber floors.

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The open-plan living areas and use of fluted Calacatta marble, curves and enormous Vitrocsa windows create a sense of movement and fluidity in the space while maintaining a sense of intimacy and sanctuary in the bedrooms. The result is an exceptional and luxurious interior. The exterior finishes are of the same level of quality as the interiors, with fluted precast concrete façade elements, sandstone cladding, travertine and bluestone paving and landscaped gardens. The Crescent presents modern excellence with a level of quality and luxury that has to be seen to be believed. The result is a boutique apartment building that sets a new standard for Darling Point. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: The Crescent Darling Point is the epitome of luxury and design. The high quality of these state-of-theart apartments highlights Impero’s constant efforts to produce projects that raise the bar even when faced with numerous challenges that had the potential to impact on the end product. This demonstrates Impero’s constant striving for excellence in construction. The

Crescent Darling Point is located in the heart of one of Sydney’s most prominent and affluent eastern suburbs, consisting of a multidwelling residential development comprising of exclusive, whole-floor apartments. But the development had its share of challenges — having to deal with latent conditions undermining neighbours’ building structures, innovative shoring solutions to reduce any risk of damages, and working with authorities and around live power. From the very outset of the project, the focus of the design has been on the ‘whole of life’ of the development. The judges were most impressed in how the interior is influenced by the streamlined silhouettes, meticulous craftsmanship and contrasting congruence of Sydney Harbour’s super yachts. Clearly a deserving winner for its category.

IMPERO CONSTRUCTIONS

Tel: 9400 0888 Licence number: 251100C Design: The Crescent Photography: Tom Ferguson Photography

HOME UNITS $1 MILLION & OVER PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY CBUS

GROWTHBUILT PTY LTD

Tel: 9212 7811 Licence number: 182204C Design: The Surry Photography: Brett Boardman

MADE PROJECTS PTY LTD

Tel: 0415 730 996 Licence number: 256614C Design: Shoreline

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 163

Cbus is a proud sponsor of the 2020 Master Builders Excellence in Housing Awards, recognising projects and progress in NSW

Congratulations to the award winners. Contact Tim for your business super needs Tim Waterson – Business Development ManagH U, 16: 0413 636 750

tim.waterson@cbussuper.com.au

cbussuper.com.au

You should read the Employer Handbook, Cbus Industry Superannuation Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and other relevant documentation to decide whether Cbus is right for you. Call 1300 361 784 or visit www.cbussuper.com.au Cbus’ Trustee: United Super Pty Ltd ABN 46 006 261 623 AFSL 233792 Cbus ABN 75 493 363 262.

HOME UNIT RENOVATION UP TO $1 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ACTRONAIR

NAUTICAL-THEMED RENOVATION This 24-unit, three-storey, walk-up building was constructed in the 1960s on Narrabeen Beach. The clients own a two-bedroom apartment on the top floor, boasting uninterrupted views of the entirety of Narrabeen Beach. The brief was to strip out the existing apartment, undertake a full design package, and deliver a bespoke renovation exactly to the clients’ specifications. Reminiscent of the clients’ experience in boating, the design brief was a nauticalthemed renovation featuring construction and materials similar to those used on a boat. CMS Consulting relied on the expertise of a number of consultants for this fitout including an interior designer, lighting designer, kitchen designer and structural engineer. The scope of works included the complete stripout of the existing apartment; new

services including plumbing for the kitchen, bathrooms and ducted air conditioning; a drop ceiling with shadowline feature; new doubled-glazed windows and balcony sliding door; new kitchen including splashback and appliances; bathroom retiling; new bath and shower; custom joinery; wall removal; new engineered timber flooring with custom routing; curved hallway ceiling along the corridor and entry with upward-facing lightrail. The fitout was of a very high standard, which is reflected in the selection of products, finishes, joinery and standard of workmanship. The existing building presented a number of challenges to overcome including a sagging ceiling. Dimensions of existing walls along the hallway were also out of parallel, making the v-join wall panelling, light rail and curved ceiling difficult. The old carpet was replaced by an engineered timber floor with acoustic underlay. The new system was much

thicker than the old carpet and the difficulty was to ensure the entire apartment, including bathrooms, bedrooms, hallways and dining room, had a seamless finish with no steps. The other challenge was meeting the client brief. The clients were not happy with a vinyl sheet boat deck imitation product, so CMS Consulting routed the edge of every floor plank off site before it was laid, then taped every joint and applied a highperformance silicone to emulate a boat deck. This was extremely time consuming and took longer than the program allowed. The nautical brief involved the corridor ceiling to be curved, with a LED light rail illuminating upward across the curved section. There is no off-the-shelf system that fitted within the corridor space, so to overcome this, CMS Consulting had to make the ceiling on site. The clients loved the solution. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: The builder encountered challenges during construction which included sagging in the existing ceilings, the usual limited access and non-compliant construction of the existing bathroom and toilet drainage. The brief was to strip out the existing apartment, undertake a full design package and deliver a bespoke renovation to the clients’ nautical-themed specification. The judges were particularly impressed with the quality of the finish and the builder’s attention to detail, particularly in the new timber floor where each of the engineered timber floorboards were first routed, laid and then the joints taped and filled with charcoalcoloured silicone to emulate a boat deck.

CMS CONSULTING PTY LTD

Tel: 9905 3511 Licence number: 256688C Design: Home Unit Renovation Photography: Tom Henderson

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 165

HOME UNIT RENOVATION UP TO $1 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ACTRONAIR

BRIANDA PROJECTS

Tel: 0414 671 979 Licence number: 194784C Design: Elizabeth Bay Apartment

CMS CONSULTING PTY LTD

CMS CONSULTING PTY LTD BRIANDA PROJECTS

BRIANDA PROJECTS

166 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

HOME UNIT RENOVATION $1 MILLION & OVER PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ACTRONAIR

AN ELEGANT HAVEN Boasting quite possibly some of the best views on offer in Sydney, this near-original 1970s apartment on the 18th floor has been transformed into an elegant, stylish and restful home for the client and their family when in the harbour city. A complete strip out utilised an external hoist due to recent building rules. All new materials were brought up the same way. The location is well known for being windy even when there are minimal wind conditions. Working with and understanding these high wind loads, plus water ingress and drainage when building living space into existing external areas, were further construction challenges. Restricted work hours also meant tight timelines.

Furnishing the project also proved difficult. Small lifts meant that the external hoist had to be utilised for most furniture before the project was complete. Only once construction finished could the final window be installed, and the hoist removed. Planning around daily weather conditions; investing in specialised tools and thorough and regular site meetings, inductions and toolbox talks allowed Constec Construction to overcome the numerous challenges of the build. Working with strata and building management was also crucial. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: This 18th floor apartment boasts probably the best views that Sydney can offer. The project involved the complete strip out and renovation of the apartment, designed by architect

Michael Suttor and interior designer Michael Love. The challenges the builder experienced were that of access, which he overcame through the construction of an external hoist and a swinging stage, and the cooperation of very tolerant and understanding neighbours. The judges were impressed with the quality of finish, attention to detail and the cordial relationship that still exists between the owner, builder and building manager.

CONSTEC CONSTRUCTION

Tel: 0414 859 301 Licence number: 183991C Design: Harbour Apartment Photography: Jason Gracia (Core Photography)

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 167

HOME UNIT RENOVATION $1 MILLION & OVER PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ACTRONAIR

BELLEVARDE CONSTRUCTIONS

Tel: 02 6295 2928 Licence number: 31493 Design: Point Piper Tranquility Photography: Felix Forest

KINN CONSTRUCTION

Email: hello@kinn.com.au Licence number: 131439C Design: Darling Point Penthouse Photography: Dave Wheeler

168 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

HOME UNIT RENOVATION — EXTERNAL OPEN PRICE CATEGORY PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ACTRONAIR

A LOCAL ARCHITECTURE ICON Following its involvement with essential fire safety upgrade works to the Nevada Building at Darling Point in 2017, Buildcorp was aware of the owners’ plans to restore a piece of late 1940s local iconic architecture. A prominent part of the Darling Point skyline at the time of its construction, the building had inevitably succumbed to time and required remediation and revitalisation works to position the building for years to come. The initial works focused largely on remediation to the external façade and balconies. The key items included demolition of existing brick balustrades and replacement with new aluminium and glass balustrades; concrete remediation works to existing balconies followed by new waterproofing and tiling; replacement of copper downpipe systems and full-scale render repairs and painting to external walls. Additional items were added such as the remediation of existing 70-year-old steel windows including removal of corrosion, lead paint, replacement of specific members, painting with micaceous oxide coating and

replacement of existing glass with Low-E glass; and painting to the roof fascia and soffits. Additional structural problems involving undocumented engineering challenges were discovered as the project progressed. These included balcony elements that required full reconstruction due to the severe state of corrosion of reinforcing bars, coupled with an original structural design that was noncompliant with modern standards. Due to the original design of the windows, the original framing couldn’t be replaced without removing large portions of the façade. A bespoke solution was developed to remediate the windows in-situ including full removal of the existing coating to the frames; replacement of original glazing with Low-E glass and recoating the steel framing with high-performance paint. To Buildcorp’s knowledge, this represents one of the largest in-situ heritage steel window frame renewal projects in Sydney. Accurate project planning and early stakeholder engagement enabled the works to be planned, executed and handed over with the residents remaining in-situ for the duration. Given the nature of the project scope, in particular the window repainting,

this is a testament to the excellent working relationship established between the site team and the residents. Thanks to considered planning and communication, the works were completed over 76 weeks. This iconic building has now been refurbished and ready to hold its place on the skyline for many years to come, while also benefitting from improved energy performance. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: The project primarily involved the renovation and replacement works to the external façade and balcony balustrades and shortly grew to the full remediation of the existing 80-year-old steel windows, which included the removal of corrosion and lead paint and the replacement of the existing glass with Low-E glass. A number of engineering challenges arose during the balcony renovations that meant the full reconstruction of some balconies due to the severe corrosion of reinforcing bars and the later assessment that the original structural design of the balconies was non-compliant. Excellent project planning and communication with the owners and tenants meant the work was completed with all residents remaining in situ for the duration of the works. The judges were impressed with the overall finish of the project, in particular, the rejuvenation of the steel windows.

BUILDCORP ASSET SOLUTIONS

Tel: 0402 293 258 Licence number: 217504C Design: Nevada Photography: Aran Anderson Photography

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 169

GRANNY FLATS UP TO $100,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MAKITA

ALL THE BELLS AND WHISTLES This custom-designed, two-bedroom granny flat has all the bells and whistles of a modern apartment. The clever use of three different external building materials, a modern colour palette inside and out, and a contemporary front fence/privacy screen sets the benchmark for great design and comfortable living. Through simplicity comes great beauty, and through simple design comes great cost savings, making this a quick, easy and affordable home to build. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: This customdesigned, two-bedroom granny flat has it all, including a modern walk-in wardrobe to the main bedroom, a study nook which the

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judges found quite novel, a walk-in pantry, breakfast bar, modern bathroom, raked ceilings, square-set cornices throughout and a large stacker door opening out onto the alfresco. The builder employed the clever use of three different external building materials, a modern colour palette inside and out and a contemporary front fence/privacy screen which set the benchmark for the great design. The simplistic design is the basis for the great cost savings and speed of construction. Big benefits in a small package.

GRANNY FLAT SOLUTIONS

Tel: 9481 7443 Licence number: 245810C

GRANNY FLATS UP TO $100,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MAKITA

GRANNY FLAT SOLUTIONS

Tel: 9481 7443 Licence number: 245810C

BEECHWOOD HOMES

Tel: 9616 0999 Licence number: 207765C Design: Blanc One — Granny Flat

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 171

GRANNY FLATS UP TO $100,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MAKITA

BEECHWOOD HOMES

Tel: 9616 0999 Licence number: 207765C Design: Cabernet One — Granny Flat

GRANNY FLAT SOLUTIONS

BEECHWOOD HOMES

172 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

GRANNY FLATS $100,001–$150,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MAKITA

BLENDING INTO THE LANDSCAPE There’s a certain majestic beauty that comes from seeing a simple building blended into its natural landscaped environment. The most unique part of this one-bedroom, split-level unit is its trapezoidal-shaped roof. It posed some real construction challenges in making the roof angles work, but through persistence comes great reward, and this well-designed unit is sure to impress. The granny flat design contains a large bedroom, galley-style gourmet kitchen, modern bathroom finishes, an abundance of storage, raked ceilings and a large open deck nestled among natural rock, planting and even some farm animals. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: The biggest part of a granny flat is the roof and this one-bedroom, split-level unit has a trapezoidal-shaped roof where no four sides are on the same angle. This posed a real challenge to make the roof angles work but work they do, and in the process, impressed the judges with not only the design, but the tradesmanship exhibited. It blends into the natural landscaped setting, with plants chosen to enhance the final product, which is a true example of the builder’s skill and craftsmanship.

GRANNY FLAT SOLUTIONS

Tel: 9481 7443 Licence number: 245810C

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 173

GRANNY FLATS $100,001–$150,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MAKITA

GRANNY FLAT SOLUTIONS

Tel: 9481 7443 Licence number: 245810C

MASTER GRANNY FLATS

Tel: 1300 643 528 Licence number: 210072C Design: The Boutique

174 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

GRANNY FLATS $100,001–$150,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MAKITA

BLUETONGUE HOMES PTY LTD

Tel: 9046 8000 Licence number: 195792C Design: The King 41 GF Photography: Hand In Hand

BUNGALOW HOMES

Tel: 9984 8950 Licence number: 198581C Design: Dee Why Granny Flat

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 175

GRANNY FLATS $150,001–$200,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MAKITA

SENSE OF SPACE NJK worked together with these clients to design and construct a 60m² granny flat with the sense of space and finishes of a larger luxury home. As a result, this small luxury home has all the bells and whistles that one would expect in a property that’s more substantial in size. The construction method chosen was a slab on ground construction, with cut-on-site timber framing, and CSR Hebel PowerPanels for the external walls to ensure optimal acoustic and thermal qualities. To achieve a sense of internal space, the ceiling height is 3m, and door and window head heights are 2.4m. As storage is always an issue, NJK made the most of the high ceilings and provided custom joinery from floor to ceiling in all areas. On the client’s wish list was a bathtub in an area of only 2700mm x 2700mm which also included a fully functional laundry with washing machine, separate dryer and laundry tub. Finishes include Italian tiles and tapware throughout. The kitchen and all joinery was designed, built and installed by multi-awardwinning joiner Maluna Joinery. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: Apart from the high degree of quality finishes, the living area has sliding aluminium-framed glass doors which slide into the cavity at both sides to create a complete “indoor alfresco”. The use of large floor tiles further enhances the spaciousness of this

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two-bedroom dwelling. The customdesigned kitchen cabinetry with a flat black finish also adds depth and spaciousness and, when combined with the light fittings, gives a comfortable feel to the main living area. The bespoke wood heater is a welcome inclusion, especially in the colder months.

NJK PROPERTY GROUP

Tel: 0416 113 285 Licence number: 249263C

GRANNY FLATS $150,001–$200,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MAKITA

BLUE GUM GRANNY FLATS PTY LTD

Tel: 1300 060 651 Licence number: 247388C Design: Castle Hill Project

BlueGum Granny Flats is one of Sydney’s most respected granny ßat builders, our ßexibility and originality have cemented our solid reputation as a leading Sydney granny ßat builder.

1300 06 06 51 info@grannyßatsydney.com.au

grannyßatsydney.com.au

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 177

GRANNY FLATS $150,001–$200,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MAKITA

BUNGALOW HOMES

Tel: 9984 8950 Licence number: 198581C Design: Allambie Heights Granny Flat — Cliffside Oasis

BUNGALOW HOMES

Tel: 9984 8950 Licence number: 198581C Design: Narraweena Granny Flat

178 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

GRANNY FLATS $150,001–$200,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MAKITA

BUNGALOW HOMES

Tel: 9984 8950 Licence number: 198581C Design: Newport Executive-Style Granny Flat

GRANNY FLAT SOLUTIONS

Tel: 9481 7443 Licence number: 245810C

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 179

GRANNY FLATS $150,001–$200,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MAKITA

GRANNY FLAT SOLUTIONS

Tel: 9481 7443 Licence number: 245810C

GRANNY FLAT SOLUTIONS

Tel: 9481 7443 Licence number: 245810C

180 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

GRANNY FLATS $200,001 & OVER PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MAKITA

AN ENVIRONMENTALLY CONSCIOUS COTTAGE The clients’ and architect’s brief for The Cottage was to make the project as environmentally and energy efficient as possible. Souter Built proposed to use the principles of a certified Passivhaus, a German science practise, to heat and cool the dwelling using minimal energy. This was achieved by going above and beyond the minimum BASIX requirements. The timber structure, entirely made of LVLs and including walls, floor and roof, rests on four steel beams bridging over Sydney Water assets. This two-storey handmade onsite structure consists of 40-degree hand-cut pitched roofs with dormer windows on both sides, exposed hardwood rafter tails with V-grooved lining soffits, 95 per cent recycled timber Weatertex boards and accoya timber windows and doors with double glazing and Low-E coatings on both sides. All floors, walls and roof have excellent insulation, with only ceiling fans and a heat extraction fan (that automatically turns on when the building reaches 30 degrees)

needed. No air conditioning was installed in this project, and the hot water is heated by a 6-star energy-efficient electric heat pump. A custom-made kitchen with recycled eucalyptus blackbutt benchtops complements the V-joint wall panelling and secret-nailed eucalyptus blackbutt floors and stairs. All onsite rainwater is kept within two 5000-litre rainwater tanks to be used onsite. A challenge before getting out of the ground was the secondary dwelling being built over not one but two Sydney Water easements. Efficient, compact machinery was used in all the earthworks to remove, replace and encase with concrete the two sewer easements servicing the entire block. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: This house not only looks good, it is also highly efficient and overcame difficult site problems. The Cottage is nestled in a conservation area in the city suburb of Ashfield and was built over two Sydney Water easements so there was a lot of work underground and careful consideration both in design and the carrying out of the works so as not to encroach on the ‘zone-ofinfluence’ of the renewed easements. A further difficulty was the site access plus

a camphor laurel tree with large stumps and roots that engulfed the entire work site. The timber structure, made of LVLs including walls, floor and roof, rests on four steel beams bridging over the Sydney Water assets. The house is ‘topped’ with a 40-degree hand-cut pitched roof with dormer windows. The building envelope is entirely sealed with an extremely high diffusion permeability combined with a continuous cavity on all walls and roof between the building envelope, with the cladding creating another level of insulation while maintaining correct moisture content and humidity within the dwelling. The timber windows and doors, apart from looking excellent, are made of accoya timber, with double glazing and special foam sealed and taped, thereby eliminating thermal loss or gain through the building envelope. SOUTER BUILT PTY LTD

Tel: 0419 261 332 Licence number: 302909C Design: Hector Abrahams Architects/ The Cottage Photography: Mark Syke Photography

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 181

GRANNY FLATS $200,001 & OVER PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MAKITA

P & R HOMES NSW PTY LTD

Tel: 1300 559 471 Licence number: 292153C Design: The Cottage @ Picton

BUNGALOW HOMES

Tel: 9984 8950 Licence number: 198581C Design: Hamptons Style Newport Granny Flat

182 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

GRANNY FLATS $200,001 & OVER PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MAKITA

BUNGALOW HOMES

Tel: 9984 8950 Licence number: 198581C Design: Church Point Granny Flat

GRANNY FLAT SOLUTIONS

Tel: 9481 7443 Licence number: 245810C

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 183

GRANNY FLATS $200,001 & OVER PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MAKITA

GRANNY FLAT SOLUTIONS

Tel: 9481 7443 Licence number: 245810C

MCGARRY CONSTRUCTIONS

Tel: 0405 812 517 Licence number: 259322C Design: Avon Studio

184 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

GRANNY FLATS $200,001 & OVER PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MAKITA

NEWMARK CONSTRUCTIONS

Tel: 9188 0708 Licence number: 218398C Design: CLT Auxiliary Photography: Tom Ferguson

SOUTER BUILT PTY LTD

BUNGALOW HOMES

GRANNY FLAT SOLUTIONS

MCGARRY CONSTRUCTIONS

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 185

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS UP TO $250,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY VOLKSWAGEN

PERFECT BLEND For this first floor addition, a priority of Buildtech Homes was to ensure that the new addition and existing front façade blended as one. The existing façade had a complex design to match, and the different lines and directions of the existing façade roof had to blend into the new rooflines, however, this was well executed to make the overall project appear as one. The addition includes three bedrooms, all with mirrored built-in wardrobes fitted with custom shelving and drawers; and a large bathroom with floor-to-ceiling tiles, double

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vanity, freestanding bath and open frameless shower. The living area features beautiful raked ceilings, and Buildtech Homes also constructed the gorgeous Victorian ash staircase with open riser and custom Victorian ash posts, to connect the two levels. Outside, the company incorporated external features such as James Hardie Scyon Stria 405mm profile cladding boards and Boral contour roof tiles into the finished product. The weather was one of the difficulties throughout the build, with torrential rain encountered when the project was being completed. To overcome any water issues,

Buildtech Homes had to ensure that it was on top of its water barrier management system at all times. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: A high standard of workmanship and excellent value for money were hallmarks of this project. The level of finish achieved on all elements was outstanding. Excellent work by a young builder.

BUILDTECH HOMES

Tel: 4648 2154 Licence number: 273824C Design: First Floor Addition

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS UP TO $250,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY VOLKSWAGEN

PIN POINT CONSTRUCTION PTY LTD

Tel: 0424 100 200 Licence number: 247530C Design: Erskineville Terrace Photography: The Guthrie Project

DJB CONSTRUCTION AND CARPENTRY PTY LTD

Tel: 0430 058 944 Licence number: 236752C Design: Kite Deck

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 187

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $250,001–$350,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY VOLKSWAGEN

ON POINT In leafy Willoughby East, on Sydney’s lower north shore, Pin Point Construction was engaged to add a significant extension to the rear of a classic Californian bungalow. The design added a new dimension to the small home with an expansive living area and open kitchen downstairs and an impressive master bedroom, with ensuite, along with an enviable walk-in wardrobe on the upper level. The construction required significant demolition works to the rear of the house and, as access was extremely limited, the entire demolition had to completed by hand. With a tight budget, and just 16 weeks to complete the project before a Christmas deadline, this was just one of many challenges that had to be overcome.

188 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

The completion of excavation works was followed by a week of consistent rain, and then intermittent rain. As the majority of soil on the site was clay, it took more than two unscheduled weeks until it was sufficiently dry to pour the foundation slab. Although causing a significant delay to the schedule, it was essential that the clay be completely dry to avoid any potential for shrinkage of the clay to create cracks in the slab, which would be finished as a showpiece in polished concrete. To further reduce any possibility of cracking, additional steel was added. Understanding that meeting the completion deadline would require many trades to be working on site at the same time, Pin Point assembled a proven team, who had worked together before, and carefully planned their

schedules. To allow as much time as possible for joinery, precise measurements were taken immediately after the frames were erected rather than waiting until they were sheeted. Several other unique requirements added to the appeal, and complexity, of the completed project. Limited documentation regarding the junction of the new and existing rooflines required the development of a box guttering design onsite. To stay within the tight budget constraints, a powered pergola system was sourced and installed, for significantly less than the costly Vergola system, with no compromise to quality or functionality. Hands on throughout the project, the owner also sourced glow-in-the-dark glass stones to be incorporated into the polished concrete floor to create a distinctive and attractive finish. The finished extension was delivered on time, and on budget, despite the challenges presented by weather and site conditions. It is a stunning addition that blended beautifully with the style of the original dwelling and transformed the liveability of the home. The finished product is a great example of what can be achieved through clever design, careful planning and the support of an enthusiastic and motivated owner. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: Finishes and attention to detail were of a very high standard. A lump sum contract and excellent value for money were features of this project.

PIN POINT CONSTRUCTION PTY LTD

Tel: 0424 100 200 Licence number: 247530C Design: Willoughby East Addition Photography: The Guthrie Project

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $250,001–$350,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY VOLKSWAGEN

BEYOND BUILD CONSTRUCTIONS PTY LTD

Tel: 0413 937 623 Licence number: 313865C Design: Tamba Photography: Escape State Creative/Peak Creative

LIGHTHOUSE BUILDING PTY LTD

Tel: 0414 012 090 Licence number: 209958C Design: Erby Project Photography: Nio Photography

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 189

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $250,001–$350,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY VOLKSWAGEN

DAVE NORTON CONSTRUCTIONS

Tel: 0411 100 766 Licence number: 124611C

APEX ALTERATIONS & ADDITIONS PTY LTD

Tel: 1300 654 380 Licence number: 41276 Photography: Dave Whiteman

190 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $250,001–$350,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY VOLKSWAGEN

KERRARN BUILDERS P/L

Tel: 0417 445 626 Licence number: 31264C

PIN POINT CONSTRUCTION PTY LTD

BEYOND BUILD CONSTRUCTIONS PTY LTD

LIGHTHOUSE BUILDING PTY LTD

APEX ALTERATIONS & ADDITIONS PTY LTD

KERRARN BUILDERS P/L

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 191

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $350,001–$450,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY VOLKSWAGEN

STEP BY STEP This Willoughby renovation has been an ongoing project of JDW Construction, with three renovations carried out over the past eight years. The house was built in 1914 of Federation character and owned by the same family until it was purchased by the current owners in 2011. The objective of the final renovation was to create a warm, homely feel to the house and incorporate a Provincial/ Hamptons look. This would tie the new works and style of the house to the existing section. To do this, JDW Construction was required to remove all aluminium windows and doors in the house and pool room, plus all joinery, decking and framework. The bathroom

192 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

vanities, benchtops, toilets and basins were all replaced, and the window and door openings were also altered to suit the new timber windows and door joinery. All skirtings were removed to the rear and hallway to allow the installation of the wall panelling, and JDW was also required to make and install door blocks for the architraves. The plate rails were continued throughout the rear of the house. The new fireplace was built into the living room and the existing joinery was relocated to the playroom. All internal doors were changed to four-panel doors, with the study and ensuite having French doors. All hinges and door hardware were changed

to match the new window and door joinery. The floor stain was sanded back and refinished with a clear coating. The joinery is a major factor in these works to create the style and feel that the clients hoped to achieve. JDW worked closely with the designer to ensure that the clients’ needs were met. New joinery was installed to all rooms, with new wardrobes to the bedrooms, new kitchen, new fireplace mantle and cupboards, vanities, laundry and study. The pool room joinery was also updated. Externally, the rear of the house and front fence were re-rendered and a new block pattern scored into the works. The rear deck was rebuilt to take new paving and sandstone steps to match the front verandah. The gates and side pool fence were rebuilt to match the style of the house, and the front garden walls were replaced with new sandstone walls. The house was also painted inside and out. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: Finely detailed finishes across all trades and excellent workmanship were prominent on this large addition to a Victorian bungalow. Outstanding work by a young builder.

JDW CONSTRUCTION

Tel: 0423 826 919 Licence number: 240029C Photography: Ben Guthrie — The Guthrie Project

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $350,001–$450,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY VOLKSWAGEN

RENOTECH BUILDING PTY LTD

Tel: 0426 800 810 Licence number: 303229C Design: Bath Box Terrace Photography: Nat Spadavecchia — The Palm Co

AS & KB CONSTRUCTIONS

Tel: 0419 291 407 Licence number: 31984C Design: Harrow Road

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 193

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $350,001–$450,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY VOLKSWAGEN

BASE PROJECTS NSW PTY LTD

Tel: 0406 111 727 Licence number: 312256C Design: Leichhardt Photography: The Palm Co

TIMBERWORX UNLIMITED PTY LTD

Tel: 02 4577 6758 Licence number: 302796C Design: East Ryde

194 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $350,001–$450,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY VOLKSWAGEN

CAPE COD AUSTRALIA

Tel: 9849 4444 Licence number: 5519

AS & KB CONSTRUCTIONS

BASE PROJECTS NSW PTY LTD

CAPE COD AUSTRALIA

TIMBERWORX UNLIMITED PTY LTD

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 195

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $450,001–$550,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY VOLKSWAGEN

HEART OF GLASS Glass Book House was renovated for a literary academic and her collection of books and took its name from the two unmistakable features of the addition — the doubleheight façade of glass blocks and wall of books. Maintaining the original character of the existing house, the architect’s design concentrated the work at the rear of the humble single-storey brick bungalow. The tired bathroom and kitchen were replaced with a split-level addition that was designed to maximise light into the new spaces and existing living room. The unconventional approach to a rear extension is defined by its exposed structure, bold colours and rigid grid, which made for a difficult but highly rewarding build. Having both the client and architect based in Melbourne meant that much of the communication during the project happened over the phone or via email. With the front section of the house being retained and only one side path less than 900mm-wide access was going to be the greatest challenge of this project. That was until the client mentioned that her sister owned the house behind and they had

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bought the properties to retire together. The house behind had a long driveway from the street around the corner and all that stood between the long driveway and this project was a dilapidated fence. Discussions and negotiations began between the sisters, Arc. and the architect, until it was decided that the neighbouring property could be used during construction. Following the completion of the build, the fence was to be left removed and new landscaping was to connect the two backyards — a great result for everyone. While the change in site access was a huge help, there were still challenges that come with an exposed structure inside and out. The architect’s vision demanded minimal tolerances and concealed fixings. The project was set out by two defining features — the glass blocks and the internal structural shelves. These two perpendicular components demanded the accuracy and alignments of the stairs, kitchen cupboards, tiles and exposed floor joists. The grid repeats itself throughout the project, the perforated mesh floor and wire mesh balustrade all a nod to the glass blocks. The rigid pattern is softened by the playful colours, and you don’t notice the lack of fixings, joist hangers, brackets and bolts.

These have all been carefully considered and detailed to be hidden. Stripped of connection clutter, all the focus is on the glass blocks. The exacting set-out is forgotten when the blocks reflect the light during the day and illuminate the interior at night. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: Once again, this young builder has produced a beautifully crafted work to exacting design requirements. Set out and planning were exceptional, a most impressive addition to a growing portfolio of award-winning projects.

ARC.

Tel: 0422 751 754 Licence number: 294491C Design: Glass Book House

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $450,001–$550,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY VOLKSWAGEN

ADVANTAGE CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS PTY LTD

Tel: 0450 345 443 Licence number: 274788C Design: November1 Design Photography: The Unfold

SCOPEVIEW PROJECTS PTY LTD

Tel: 1300 882 124 Licence number: 263176C Design: Henderson Photography: Vikram Hingmire

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 197

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $450,001–$550,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY VOLKSWAGEN

BCD BUILDING PTY LTD

Tel: 9487 5715 Licence number: 209636C Design: Project Pymble Photography: Hannah Blackmore Photography

COMPLETEHOME

Inspiration room by room

Comp lete Home is th e mu st vi si t hom e imp rov em en t d e sti n a ti on 100% AUSTRALIAN

198 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $550,001–$650,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY VOLKSWAGEN

GRAND OLD DAME Major renovations and additions to a grand old Federation house were required for this project. The architect’s plan was to utilise the volume originally hidden in the roof space and to create an extra-high cathedral ceiling over a large open-plan living area. JT Construct was brought onto the project by the client as they knew it was a difficult project that required specialised services in line with JT Construct’s expertise. The block had its difficulties, especially with access, with only a very narrow walkway down each side boundary and no rear access. This required careful planning, methodical and complex construction techniques, handling of materials and specialised excavation techniques involving machinery. Cost management and budget maintenance were integral to a build of such complexity. JT Construct was responsible for, in consultation with engineers, the design of the cathedral ceiling concept required for the structure. Innovative steel and engineering design made it structurally sound as well as meeting the architectural and aesthetic appeal. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: A complex roof structure, with exposed rafters, were features on this project. A superbly executed renovation in every respect. Fine work by a young builder.

JT CONSTRUCT PTY LTD

Tel: 0432 219 119 Licence number: 286298C Photography: JCNS Photography

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 199

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $550,001–$650,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY VOLKSWAGEN

AVANTI PROJECTS GROUP PTY LTD

Tel: 0412 315 725 Licence number: 297184C Design: Sugi Ban House

CAPE COD AUSTRALIA

Tel: 9849 4444 Licence number: 5519

200 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $650,001–$700,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY VOLKSWAGEN

TO THE RESCUE Avant Build took over this project from another builder to finish the job, and had to fix all the previous defects before commencing. However, with very good time management, the company could work on other items at the same time and was able to finish the home in less than five months. The team completed the first floor external walls, windows installation, electrical and plumbing works (rough-in and fit-out), waterproofing, tiling, joinery, carpentry fit-out and landscaping. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: A challenge for this builder was to complete a project that was the subject of a HBCF insurance claim. An exceptionally high standard of workmanship is evident throughout this challenging project. The clients greatly appreciated the efforts of the builder to achieve completion of a stalled project.

AVANT BUILD PTY LTD

Tel: 8484 5898 Licence number: 313203C

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 201

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $650,001–$700,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY VOLKSWAGEN

KEEPING IT IN THE FAMILY Redfern Terrace was a special project for SQ Projects. It was purchased and built specifically for the owner of SQ Projects, Joe Sidoti, and his wife. It is being held to become a housing option for their two children when they leave high school, and will hopefully provide them with excellent inner-city living in a thriving area. The terrace was purchased directly from the children of the original owner who grew up in the house, and was in original condition and dilapidated after not having been lived in for some time. The owner’s children remained interested and part of the project, visiting often during construction and being particularly pleased upon seeing the completed home. SQ Projects had a vision for the terrace and worked collectively with the architect to complete the design and lodge the Development Application within the heritage and conservation controls of Sydney City Council. As with all inner-city terrace projects, access was a site constraint, as was demolition, party wall challenges, fire ratings and in-ground conditions. SQ Projects chose to design a ground slab that would be used as the finished product

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following grind and seal at completion. No topping slab was used. In lieu of loading common party walls with new structure, SQ Projects decided to expose CHS structural support and include it as a finished element. From the outset, it was important for both the end product and cost control to be able to reuse materials and finishes where possible. All bricks from demolition were retained, cleaned and reused in the completed house. These are proudly displayed as an internal feature in the living room. Bricks were left exposed and as original where possible, and used as another feature in the attic conversion and laundry. Timbers were salvaged and reused in the entry sitting room area flooring and laundry flooring and benchtop. Fireplaces and mantles were also restored. The aim of SQ Projects was to pay respect to original detailing with a modern twist to the front/retained section of the terrace and deliver a sharper and more contemporary finish to the rear while still including some rustic finishes. It was also important to the team that stair and circulation space was improved in the house, as converted terraces often do not achieve this. SQ Projects worked very closely with the architect on this aspect.

Bringing as much internal light in on tight budgets was a challenge. Once again, SQ Projects believes that it worked very well with the designer to achieve this, especially for a south-facing terrace. Natural air flows and cross ventilation is always a challenge in attached terraces. In this instance, the layout and selection of windows, including breezeway louvres, works well. SQ Projects says that it loves how the various building materials work well together in the completed home, and loves the respect that has been paid to small items in the original building. Lastly, it loves overall that a modern, warm, well-functioning and serviced converted terrace has been delivered. Its particular favourite aspect is the warm white textured render to the party wall in the living room. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: A most accomplished result on a challenging site. Many creative solutions to updating a dilapidated inner-city terrace were evident in this exceptionally well-executed project.

SQ PROJECTS PTY LTD

Tel: 9555 5190 Licence number: 235585C Design: Redfern Terrace Photography: Natalie Sidoti

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $650,001–$700,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY VOLKSWAGEN

AS & KB CONSTRUCTIONS

Tel: 0419 291 407 Licence number: 31984C Design: Kepos House

CONSTRUCTIVE BUILDING PROJECTS

Tel: 0415 073 360 Licence number: 198263C

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 203

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $700,001–$800,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY VOLKSWAGEN

ULTIMATE TREE HOUSE This ambitious project resulted in the transformation of a tired and poorly modified 1970s brick veneer dwelling on a challenging site into a luxurious and spectacular contemporary two-level home. Working with architect Robert Harwood, Bakker Built transformed the ground level of the original home into a spacious area with family bedrooms and a new internal granny flat — retaining cabinetry, window features and remodelled bathrooms. A new open riser internal staircase custom made by Bakker Built connects the old lower level to the brand-new upper living level. Working with site levels, this level,

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surrounded by tree foliage, is connect by a level walkway to the site frontage. The project featured clever resolution of the complex site constraints of slope, vegetation and noise. Sited in a hazardous bushfire-prone location, raised BAL ratings required design and construction considerations. In the valley beyond the house, a four-lane arterial road generates a background hum to be suppressed by use of Hebel wall panels, increased insulation and a quality glazing system. The main living level features a raked ceiling that extends out to cover the balcony area in a flush line. Fine construction detailing accentuated the aircraft wing-like look.

The clients, with Swiss and Japanese backgrounds, also requested a Tatami room in the brief, which features near the entry to the home. Bakker Built utilised its signature craftsmanship skills for the detailing of timber flooring, carefully considered carpentry framing and finishes set out throughout. While the project brought with it challenging circumstances, the end result is a seamless and comprehensive solution to the clients’ brief and expectations. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: The judges were impressed with the Japanese-influenced detailing. The finish required for the raked ceiling was exacting. A fine execution of a sophisticated and demanding design.

BAKKER BUILT PTY LTD

Tel: 0413 418 854 Licence number: 248031C Design: Epping Tree House Photography: Thomas Dalhoff

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $700,001–$800,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY VOLKSWAGEN

JT CONSTRUCT PTY LTD

Tel: 0432 219 119 Licence number: 286298C Design: Heritage Terrace Refurbishment Photography: Brigid Arnott Photography

MANAGED BUILD

Tel: 0414 499 422 Licence number: 322610C

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 205

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $800,001–$900,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY VOLKSWAGEN

THE GRAND ENTERTAINER BTM was employed to complete an extensive renovation to an original, outdated, early 1990s home in Glenhaven set on a 4452m² block. The house, now known as The Grand Entertainer, was purchased by the new owners and throughout discussions with the architect Sydesign, the client expressed their desire to maintain the external façade to keep the exterior integrity of the original home, and stay in line with the streetscape. However, the internal layout did not cater to their needs.

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The clients had the intent to alter the layout on the ground floor and first floor for a bigger office space, larger open-plan living/kitchen for family and friends, a cinema room, master bedroom layout reconfiguration, and as a whole wanted to put a fresh touch on the entire internal space and surfaces. It was also finally decided by all parties that the exterior of the house was to be revitalised. The height of the existing ceiling within the main living area was not grand enough for this luxury home, so the floor was dropped from bearers and joists to a slab-on-ground construction, to create a split-level feel.

This came with its own challenges such as removing structural walls and replacing with structural steel; removal of the entire floor; excavating and re-running services and pouring the new concrete slab within the footprint. Perhaps one of the biggest construction tasks involved the largest structural steel beam, weighing one tonne, which had to be taken through the front door and lifted into position, while the remains of the house were propped temporarily. A significant amount of work was also involved to convert the three-panelled garage door into a double and a single door for the owners’ convenience. The use of high-end quality finishes included Italiana stone, natural limestone tiles, designer hardware and handles, light fittings, and feature LED strip lighting. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: A masterclass in building by a young builder taking on work of such complexity and scale. The level of finish of all elements was outstanding.

BTM CONSTRUCTIONS PTY LTD

Tel: 9652 1385 Licence number: 288435C Design: The Grand Entertainer Photography: Kellen Bush

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $800,001–$900,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY VOLKSWAGEN

SKILLED CARPENTRY This winning house additions project consisted of internal demolition of the ground floor area and strip out of all bathrooms. During the demolition process, a large area was discovered that had been subjected to water leaks and which displayed a significant amount of dry rot. Approximately 30 per cent of the existing floor frame had to be replaced. The removal of several internal and one external load-bearing wall required a steel frame to be installed. The architect, Matt Elkan, had very definite ideas about the use of hardwood and its integration into the whole building fabric; from major structural elements down to joinery items, skirtings and furniture. This concept was welcomed and quickly adopted by the Oikos Construction team.

The rather enthusiastic approach by the carpenters, together with the owner, resulted in a very constructive relationship between architect, owner and builder. A lot of detailed design was developed during construction with the input of all involved. One difficulty was to integrate different building elements such as windows, joinery, flooring and other hardwood items, so as to give the appearance of seamless continuity. The need for continuous hardwood posts exceeding a length of 8m created a construction difficulty which was solved by implementing simple traditional connections: long scarf joints with butterfly locks. The employment of traditional carpentry methods, the results of which was readily discernible, added interesting elements to the finished building. Simple physics was used to achieve

a solution for a naturally cooled, on-site, custom-built wine cabinet. The incorporation of hardwood features, as designed by the architect, enabled the achievement of a completed building in which the alterations and additions could not be distinguished from the original house content. The clever use of certain concrete elements and visually expressed stainlesssteel connection details added a sense of contemporary design without compromising the conservative homeliness of the project. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: Exceptional structural carpentry using Australian hardwoods, coupled with solid timber joinery, were prominent features of this project. The bespoke detailing is a credit to the builder.

OIKOS CONSTRUCTION

Tel: 0422 691 099 Licence number: 186534C

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 207

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $900,001–$1 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY VOLKSWAGEN

BIG, BOLD AND DRAMATIC Nestled in the heart of Marrickville, this elegant 1927 Federation house remained in the same family since 1927 before these clients purchased the house in 2015. They were keen to keep the original features of the historical home, but wanted an addition to the building that would accommodate their two young children and serve their love of entertaining. Their vision was for a light-filled sanctuary that was big, bold and dramatic, without compromise and would enable sustainable living by reducing energy consumption. The design of the addition is bold, modern and light filled — in juxtaposition to the ornate, moody original building. Clever design blends these two elements. The original house is elegant and well designed, so the clients wanted to retain as much of the character of the existing house as possible which included all fireplaces and ornate ceilings. The new building addition incorporates 4m-high ceilings, giving plenty of natural light to the open-plan design that focuses on the kitchen as the heart of the home and flows easily to the rear garden and outdoor entertaining area.

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Oak veneer joinery and polyurethane adds texture and the full-height joinery adds to the drama, as does the huge bookend-matched marble splashback in the kitchen. Large roof overhangs and side walls to the rear of the terrace give the house shade, weather protection and privacy from overlooking neighbours. A larger master suite was created as a parents’ retreat and an attic study area is a ‘creative’ space for parents and children to enjoy away from the rest of the family while still giving view to the activity in the living room and garden from a large picture window. The clients wanted a house with impact. Height was important, and it was difficult to make that liveable. The sheer height and scale was challenging in both the design and build, as the clients wanted a lot of natural light. The design also needed to keep the feeling of a cosy family home without being in a big warehouse. This was overcome by introducing a central courtyard to bring more of the outside into the house and including softer materials palette such as timber ceilings and soffits. A dramatic 4m to 6m-high Tasmanian oak timber ceiling was created with acoustic backing to ensure that the space did

not sound cavernous. The small central courtyard between the existing house and new rear living pavilion acts as a transition from old to new. This gives the living space a feeling of being surrounded by landscaping and open space and reduces the sense of a long, dark corridor. Base Projects NSW also built the 9m x 3m lap pool with automated cleaning system that runs completely on solar power. As the client insisted on not losing an old established tree at the side of the house, and with the only access to the rear site through the garage door, the excavator was driven through the sliding door openings of the house. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: The polished concrete floor and fine timber batten ceiling were standout features of this addition, an outstanding alteration to an Edwardian bungalow. Finishes were sophisticated and faultless.

BASE PROJECTS NSW PTY LTD

Tel: 0406 111 727 Licence number: 312256C Design: Marrickville Photography: The Palm Co

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $900,001–$1 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY VOLKSWAGEN

PAVILION PERFECTION Oye Mi Canto is an alterations and additions project on a terrace house located in the leafy suburban streets of Newtown, nestled into a narrow site backing onto the Carriageworks cultural precinct. While retaining the heritage-significant street-facing façade and front bedroom, extending the rear building line and introducing an internal courtyard, the house has been holistically transformed into three pavilions. The bedroom and bathroom front pavilion consists of four modest bedrooms and two bathrooms and sits beneath the existing gable roof form of the home. An extension to the first floor provides spatial relief needed for the young family of five to be able to live comfortably, allowing the children room to grow older and gain independence. An internal courtyard, lush with vegetation, separates the more traditional private part of the home from the shared living space pavilion, with a hallway connection providing access beside the courtyard. The courtyard provides both natural light to the centre of the site, as well as screening windows to the neighbour's home through native vegetation. Living, dining and kitchen spaces are integrated to this central pavilion beneath the striking skillion roof, making efficient use of the tight floor space to provide all the comforts of exceptional architectural space within a modest footprint. The third pavilion stands alone at the rear of the site, but through form, material and proportion is inherently linked to the central living pavilion. Functioning as an open-air artists' studio as well as a covered outdoor dining space, this art shed becomes a conduit for both creativity and entertaining for the family. Bespoke architectural details appear throughout the home, and with near-zero

tolerance available, every square centimetre has been built to an exceptional standard. The corrugated galvanised iron ceiling in the living pavilion butts up to frameless glazing all around, giving the illusion of a continuous sheet floating above, while providing ample natural lighting to the space below. Louvred windows allow heat to escape the space in the summer, and a thermal mass concrete slab keeps the home both cool in summer and warm in winter. The timber-framed sliding door to the north-facing courtyard allows the kitchen/dining space to fully open to the outdoor space and art shed, providing an abundance of space to enjoy warm summer nights. Through carefully calculated engineering and precise manufacturing and installation, sliding doors meet at one corner of the internal courtyard and when both open, allow the living pavilion to further connect to the front of the house. A custom-formed concrete step invites connection between the living space and hallway to the front of the house, in which recycled wide-format kauri pine floorboards meet the spotted gum treads and risers of the new staircase. Western red cedar shiplap cladding lines both the external face of the building in the courtyard, as well as the internal wall of the new hallway extension. The cladding was stained dark to provide a warm, honest material palette to the space as well as minimise maintenance. From the front edge of the internal courtyard through to the rear of the home, a galvanised steel planter bed composes the roof of the hallway, providing a green outlook upwards from the living pavilion, and spilling over into the courtyard. From the upstairs bedroom, the roof planter provides a view of greenery in the foreground and the industrial Carriageworks beyond.

A stainless-steel mesh balustrade serves the staircase and upper hallway, allowing the skylight above to funnel natural light down the stairwell and into the hallway below. A second internal skylight raked to match the external roof comprises half the ceiling of the ensuite, flooding what would otherwise be a dark internal bathroom with natural light. The joinery to the living pavilion sees a central unit with kitchen facilities facing the rear, and entertainment unit facing the internal courtyard, providing an internal division of the space to allow children and adults to both entertain without disturbing each other. Hardwood plywood encases the joinery, providing a robust and durable lining to withstand the wear and tear of a young family. Trying to maximise the potential of the site while having to adhere to intense council scrutiny resulted in several issues throughout the build that had to be carefully managed to be able to arrive at the exemplary finished home that stands today. Coordination between CplusC building and architectural teams, as well as through subcontractor relationships, resulted in the project's design intent being executed to the highest possible standard. The clients couldn't be more thrilled with the result. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: An excellent result for this architect/builder. The junction between the corrugated ceiling and the glass highlight is seamless, giving the impression of a floating roof. Bespoke detailing, beautiful timber joinery and creation of indoor/outdoor spaces were admirable features.

CPLUSC ARCHITECTURAL WORKSHOP

Tel: 9690 2211 Licence number: 173945C Design: Oye Mi Canto House Photography: Murray Fredericks

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 209

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $900,001–$1 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY VOLKSWAGEN

HISPEC CONSTRUCTIONS PTY LTD

Tel: 1300 342 190 Licence number: 258724C Design: Bondi Brighton Photography: Tom Ferguson

MJ MINARD PTY LTD

Tel: 0407 017 706 Licence number: 206364c

210 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $900,001–$1 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY VOLKSWAGEN

RENOTECH BUILDING PTY LTD

Tel: 0426 800 810 Licence number: 303229C Design: Summer Hill House Photography: Nat Spadavecchia — The Palm Co

BASE PROJECTS NSW PTY LTD

CPLUSC ARCHITECTURAL WORKSHOP HISPEC CONSTRUCTIONS PTY LTD

MJ MINARD PTY LTD

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 211

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $1 MILLION–$1.3 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY VOLKSWAGEN

CHILDHOOD MEMORIES This client wanted to modernise the home without removing the original street presence, as it was a childhood home held in the family for a long time. The work involved the demolition of the rear portion of the 1930s house and constructing a new open, clean, light-filled living space with tucked-away master bedroom suite. Site challenges included working in very soft sand and rising salt due to the proximity to the ocean. The original render was removed carefully, which then exposed corroded breeze lintels, which had to be removed and replaced. New injection dampproof courses were installed throughout the original cottage. New salt-retardant render was installed, followed by an epoxy coating to the exterior of the existing house. The main construction challenge was the detailing of the various components of the extension, to ensure that the architect’s

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design was incorporated in full, and met with the regulatory and structural requirements. Much time was spent in detailing the steel structure of the rear façade to ensure that the design was able to incorporate the necessary items to comply with regulations such as stormwater and correct flashing details. This was all done so that all of the materials remained within the width of the PFC beams that outlined the rear façade. To ensure that all of this was detailed and exact work was correct, a full-size 3D model was created with all of the actual size components. This allowed fit issues to be addressed and the model was followed exactly on site. Internally, a spotted gum laminated hardwood beam was incorporated as part structure part feature. Construction Matters built the structure and suspended it on scaffolding to install the roof over the rear portion. Once the roof was installed, the beam was site joined to create the full structural

beam and stair stringer. The stair was custom built on site and the balustrade was custom designed with the architect. Other features of the house include hydronic and central heating and detailed custom joinery. The result is an elegant home that looks simple in its construction, but in which a lot of detailed work is hidden. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: A most accomplished execution of a demanding design that required subtly complex details on a large scale. The striking stairs and precise set out of numerous skylights caught the judges’ attention. The builder was up to the task.

CONSTRUCTION MATTERS

Tel: 9882 6332 Licence number: 172443C Design: South Coogee Photography: Huw Lambert

Quality MEASURED IN DETAIL 8/28 Smith Street, Chatswood NSW 2067 P 02 9882 6332 E tom.dalton@constructionmatters.com.au

constructionmatters.com.au

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $1 MILLION–$1.3 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY VOLKSWAGEN

BRAESIDE BUILDING PTY LTD

Tel: 8542 9781 Licence number: 297055C Photography: Richard Whitbread

WRIGHT CONSTRUCTION SYDNEY PTY LTD

Tel: 0405 537 723 Licence number: 273308C Design: Kenilworth St Photography: Alexander Hoy

214 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $1 MILLION–$1.3 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY VOLKSWAGEN

FOUR FRONT BUILDING PTY LTD

Tel: 0421 553 190 Licence number: 300344C Design: Boolarong Road Photography: James Rice Vision Photos

CAPE COD AUSTRALIA

Tel: 9849 4444 Licence number: 5519

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 215

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $1 MILLION–$1.3 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY VOLKSWAGEN

GRANGE BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION

Tel: 0412 299 477 Licence number: 276854C Design: Grange B+C Bayview Project Photography: Simon Whitbread

BRAESIDE BUILDING PTY LTD

WRIGHT CONSTRUCTION SYDNEY PTY LTD

FOUR FRONT BUILDING PTY LTD

CAPE COD AUSTRALIA

GRANGE BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION

216 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

FLORENCE constructing a new perspective 019 16:06 Product: TA4A PubDate: 28-09-2 019

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Natalie Pavlovic of Rotric Constructions

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $1.3 MILLION–$1.4 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY BLUESCOPE

UNIQUE ARCHITECTURAL DETAILS Darren Hall, director of Pride and Passion, was very excited about this project as soon as he saw the plans at the tender stage, but knew it would be challenging due to the unique architectural details throughout. These features included a 10m² custom steel louvre system infilled with Prodema cladding, an architectural steel pergola with hardwood screen and extensive high-level detail, stone masonry work throughout with curved mitred edges and full bathrooms lined with slabs of stone. Not only that, the main feature of this project is the three-level, one-of-a-kind steel sculpture, which is the main staircase for the home. Darren says that no one will ever truly understand the effort and countless hours that went into this one item among the many other unique details throughout. Unfortunately, these were not the biggest challenges that were faced — there were many changes and additions along the way, which meant that the team constantly had to adapt to new timelines and undertake items out of sequence. One of these changes was the addition of an elevator that services all three levels. The team had already completed some ground level structural changes including excavation and underpinning, with the addition of the elevator resulting in excavating approximately 150m³ of sand by hand and with buckets from beneath the existing three-storey building, which was only founded on brick footings. This was the only

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option as the dry sandy foundation was very unstable, so it had to be done in many stages, with extensive underpinning along the way. According to Darren, this was without question the most challenging and demanding project that he has ever undertaken and despite the adversities faced, it is an amazing product, of which everyone who was involved is incredibly proud. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: The work required complex site excavation in sand and temporary support, which the builder provided to produce an outstanding result. A dramatic and beautifully crafted steel staircase typified the flawless finishes generally. An outstanding achievement by a young builder on a fixed-sum contract.

PRIDE AND PASSION PTY LTD

Tel: 0422 268 208 Licence number: 291529C Design: Coogee House Photography: Ben Guthrie — The Guthrie Project

0422 268 208 www.prideandpassion.com.au

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $1.3 MILLION–$1.4 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY BLUESCOPE

CONSTEC CONSTRUCTION

Tel: 0414 859 301 Licence number: 183991C Photography: Jason Gracia — Core Photography

MICK COLLINS BUILDER

Tel: 0428 350 922 Licence number: 249539C

220 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $1.3 MILLION–$1.4 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY BLUESCOPE

BLD PROJECTS

Tel: 0412 655 937 Licence number: 189750C Design: WaterFall House

CAPE COD AUSTRALIA

Tel: 9849 4444 Licence number: 5519

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 221

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $1.4 MILLION–$1.5 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY BLUESCOPE

BRIDGING THE GAP Behind its iconic façade, this classic doublefronted Victorian home combines the opposing worlds of heritage and modernism to house a family of three generations. The original Federation home, which featured twin gables and a mostly symmetrical floorplan, had morphed into a patchwork of poor renovations over the past 100 years. It was agreed that the original home would be fully restored to its heritage, while the renovations would be removed, making way for a new and modern rear addition. This is accessed via a breezeway between dual courtyards, effectively creating two wings, the first being the existing house and the second its contemporary addition. The front of the home was fully restored, including the specialist repair and re-build of the original, and delicate marble fireplaces. The challenge at the front was to restore the original within the set budget while making it look as new. Cracked brickwork was Helifixed and new set plaster was applied

222 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

to much of the existing dwelling. Existing internal and external heritage features such the back door, tessellated tiles, Paddington corners and ceiling features and skirting and moulds were restored, and a new bullnose verandah roof was added. The Dulwich Hill Double showcases Build by Design’s depth and breadth of unique skill in one project. The new staircase achieved a modern architectural feat with a 3mm shadowline between curved timber treads and plasterboard walls, while complex curves to the central void required careful wetting and bending of plasterboard to meet the tightly curved set-outs. A recycled timber screen was built in stages and connected with threaded rods and spacers to achieve the appearance of a single screen. Each piece of timber stops short of the ceiling and the wall at the base, lightly separating the stair from the hallway below. The Build by Design team knew that to meet the detail-driven brief they would need to work as a collective with the architect

Sam Crawford and the client. Seamless communication and collaboration were key to success. The Dulwich Hill Double project is a prime showcase of the high level of skill involved, from communication, timeline and budget to management, to the expertise required to bridge the gap, quite literally, of 100 years of design. The result is an architecturally detailed and complexly designed and built home, presented to the untrained eye with simplicity and finesse. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: Beautiful external curved brickwork and curved internal walls were features of this alteration. The joinery was well executed to exacting design requirements. Superbly crafted work in a very competitive category.

BUILD BY DESIGN PTY LTD

Tel: 0404 009 534 Licence number: 207183C Design: Dulwich Hill Double Photography: Brett Boardman

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $1.4 MILLION–$1.5 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY BLUESCOPE

PENINSULA HOMES

Tel: 9997 7248 Licence number: 216074C Design: North Curl Curl Headland

BUILD BY DESIGN PTY LTD

PENINSULA HOMES

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 223

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $1.5 MILLION–$1.7 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY BLUESCOPE

EXTREME MAKEOVER The renovation of this Kingsford property encompassed a range of improvements that transformed the single-storey dwelling into a generous five-bedroom home with functional spatial arrangements throughout. The contemporary rear addition generates a continuous open-plan space for living, cooking and dining. This transitions seamlessly with outdoor spaces that address the new custom-built tiled swimming pool. The focus of the design was to create openness and lightness, and these qualities are expressed both in the tall ceilings and highlight windows which deliver natural light to the core of the dwelling, as well as the selection of finishes which maintain a consistent bright palette throughout. The biggest obstacle in the project was the contiguous piling and underpinning which was done by hand, as site access was limited, and dealing with a sandy site. Additional time and labour was required to complete the foundations. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: A very accomplished result on a difficult sandy site. An exceptional high standard of workmanship is evident in every aspect of this complex project.

DAVINA HOMES

Tel: 9817 8157 Licence number: 65121C Photography: Nathan Pastoors

224 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $1.5 MILLION–$1.7 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY BLUESCOPE

J2 BUILD PTY LTD

Tel: 0404 077 004 Licence number: 255099C Design: Brogers Creek

SOWDEN BUILDING SOLUTIONS

Tel: 0433 323 513 Licence number: 342665C

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 225

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $1.5 MILLION–$1.7 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY BLUESCOPE

CONSTRUCTION MATTERS

Tel: 9882 6332 Licence number: 172443C Design: Balmain 2 Photography: Huw Lambert

DAVINA HOMES

J2 BUILD PTY LTD

SOWDEN BUILDING SOLUTIONS

226 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

CONSTRUCTION MATTERS

C O M P L E T E H O M E.C O M. A U

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HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $1.7 MILLION–$1.8 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY BLUESCOPE

CONTEMPORARY AUSTRALIAN BEACH HOUSE The Palm Beach project is a highly detailed architectural house among the treetops overlooking the coast of Palm Beach. The house has been in the family for several generations, and the client sought to significantly upgrade the amenity of the cottage while retaining the character of the existing building and connection to the surrounding landscape. Extensive alterations and additions were required to the existing storm-damaged cottage, sited on the steep sandstone slopes above Palm Beach. The contemporary design maintains the small yet highly articulated form and a palette of natural materials to preserve the character and scale of the existing cottage while adapting it for a modern lifestyle. The existing plan was retained and extended towards the east, with a formdefining elevated canopy roof added, opening the living spaces towards the ocean and the beautiful forested hillside to the north and west. Despite the steep topography, all the primary living areas, bedrooms and bathrooms open to external terraces and decks on a single level to accommodate the client's elderly parents. The existing inclinator was preserved and upgraded.

228 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

A crisp exposed Australian hardwood structure, floors and externally mounted hardwood sliding windows and doors highlight the crafted nature of the building. Highlight windows reveal the surrounding treetops and maintain high levels of natural daylight. Fibre-cement cladding with timber cover battens gives a nod to traditional building techniques customary to some of the houses in the area. Roof detailing was kept clean and sharp in consideration of the high level of foliage and falling leaves surrounding the house. Painted timber lining boards and a light, neutral colour palette keeps the interior simple and appropriate to a contemporary Australian beach house. The geography presented the most challenges to the construction of the building, with the project situated in the middle of a

3500m² block that is 50m higher than the road level, with difficult access to the building. The main building constraint was the site access and materials handling up the steep incline. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: Site access and materials handling complicated building on this difficult site and demanded innovative solutions. Sophisticated and faultless finishes were achieved across all trades. Glazed highlights fitted without additional framing between exposed rafters were a feature. A most deserving winner in a very competitive category.

LAWSON & LOVELL BUILDING SERVICES

Tel: 0414 998 697 Licence number: 233629C Photography: Simon Whitbread

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $1.7 MILLION–$1.8 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY BLUESCOPE

PENINSULA PROJECTS

Tel: 0410 694 793 Licence number: 258764C Photography: Simon Whitbread

LAWSON & LOVELL

Bringing your dream to life.

MULTI-AWARD WINNING BUILDER ON SYDNEY’S NORTHERN BEACHES AND NORTH SHORE WINNER: Energy Efﬁciency Housing ($2 million & over) WINNER: House Additions/ Alterations/Renovations ($1.7 million - $1.8 million) FINALIST: House Additions/ Alterations/Renovations ($3 million - $4 million)

LAWSON & LOVELL Phil Lovell // 0414 998 697 phil@lawsonandlovell.com.au

northernbeachesbuilders.com.au

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 229

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $1.8 MILLION–$1.9 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY BLUESCOPE

FAMILY FOCUS These clients live across the road from a dilapidated and uninhabitable 1870s workers’ cottage, and when it came onto the market for the first time in more than 60 years, they realised that they had a unique opportunity to restore the home for their elderly parents, rather than have them live in an aged care facility. Beach Houses Australia then worked with architects Ava and Noah Shirley, two siblings who grew up in the street and knew the clients as neighbours. The existing cottage was painstakingly restored into a more impressive structure than it had ever been and the new extension emerged in a material specification that was to fulfil the ambitious 200-year design life brief. Beach Houses Australia, motivated by the brief that encompasses the goal of delivering longevity in a build, took to the challenge and delivered a precise off-form concrete and masonry structure that became the key architectural structure of the extension. The design for the house pushed to make the most of the 180m² block, and posed many construction challenges, namely due to council conditions that required the retention of the timber cottage at the front of the site, despite the need to excavate into rock underneath. The footprint of the new two-storey extension behind the cottage was boundary to boundary, which posed further excavation and stormwater complexities. Shotcrete permanent

230 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

shoring systems were utilised to form not only the boundary retaining walls but also the 10,000-litre sub-grade stormwater detention tank and associated pressure pumps that also had to be incorporated into the tight block. Beach Houses Australia initiated this as an alternative design approach to fast-track the program and mitigate the risk of boundary subsidence. BHA also had to coordinate the off-form structure’s pour sequence to achieve a monolithic column pour that was unusual in a typical sequence of pours. BHA’s own carpenters were used to build the formwork to better achieve the quality outcome expected by both client and architect. Cold joint treatment for weatherproofing had to be considered in this process. Other interesting design and construct challenges included 316 stainless-steel custom rainwater goods, the curved ceiling and lightwells to bring northern light into the building and the subtle inclusion of accessibility features. These included a lift designed for a wheelchair, wide pivot door openings that swing both ways for ease of access, limited stepped thresholds and joinery timber grab rails throughout wet areas. The project incorporated green building initiatives including double glazing throughout, thermal mass, in-slab heating and the highest levels of insulation. The house has also been future proofed for the installation of solar panels.

The result has not only been successful in delivering the design brief, budget and program, but it has also brought an aging family closer together. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: A complex and demanding design flawlessly executed despite the very difficult site access. The finish achieved on the off-form concrete was exceptional. The original small timber workers’ cottage was restored faultlessly. A most deserving winner.

BEACH HOUSES AUSTRALIA PTY LTD

Tel: 0404 859 589 Licence number: 202006C Design: North Sydney Workers’ Cottage Photography: Michael Nicholson

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $1.8 MILLION–$1.9 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY BLUESCOPE

AJP CONSTRUCTIONS

Tel: 0414 195 853 Licence number: 223831C Design: Bellevue Hill CLT House Photography: Simon Whitbread

BAU GROUP

Tel: 0425 288 390 Licence number: 172656C Design: Hilma Street

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 231

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $1.9 MILLION–$2 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY BLUESCOPE

VICTORIAN TERRACE REVIVAL An extensive renovation and addition was carried out to an existing terrace home in Paddington, with the aim of producing an imaginative architect-designed revival of this Victorian semi. With a creative layout, it features sun-drenched whole-floor living that opens onto a landscaped courtyard with a studio retreat and steam room. The large main bedroom boasts a spectacular ensuite with architecturally designed steel doors leading onto an external private courtyard. With a second bedroom and bathroom, media room, dream kitchen, dining area and invaluable double carport, this build satisfies the most discerning resident lucky enough to purchase this highly detailed two-storey residence. The terrace is situated on an intersection of two busy streets with a small lane at the rear. With no parking allowed at the front

232 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

of the property, this left the rear lane as the only option for deliveries, concrete pours and trade parking, which proved difficult at times. Other challenges endured included removing spoil and rock from the site, working mindfully of the many neighbours in close proximity to the site and craning out the excavator on completion. All aspects of the original terrace were demolished, leaving only the front bedroom standing. The block was then excavated from front to back, finishing approximately 3m below the level of the road at the rear lane. This allowed Huntsman Constructions to build the studio and steam room under the double carport. To achieve this, four weeks of rock excavation was carried out. Controlled cutting measures were required to reduce vibration to neighbouring properties and to maintain their structural integrity. Also adding to the difficulties of excavation was a large mature Frangipani tree which was required to be protected

and maintained on site as part of the overall courtyard design. There is an incredible amount of detail, both internally and externally, throughout the entire terrace. The design of the build and choices of finishes were extremely fluid throughout the construction period, requiring a number of important decisions to be made efficiently along the way. Through collaboration between the builder, architect, designer, engineer and client, fantastic outcomes were achieved. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: An exceptional high standard of finishes was evident in this complex construction on a difficult site. A curved batten screen faced with brass strips was an outstanding feature. It was a pleasure to judge such a beautifully crafted work.

HUNTSMAN CONSTRUCTIONS

Tel: 0418 474 634 Licence number: 170423C Photography: Brett Shearer

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $1.9 MILLION–$2 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY BLUESCOPE

CLIFFTOP CREATION The Avalon Cliff House renovation, is as the name suggests, on the clifftop of Avalon Beach, and involved the demolition of the majority of the existing building, leaving just the bearers and joists to retain the current footprint. One of the complexities of the job was that its position, so close to the edge of the cliff, meant that the uplift factor was seven tonnes of upwards pressure. Williams Building Company needed to tie everything down to rock, which is difficult with large open spaces and single stud walls to then hide the steel columns required. In total, 25 steel columns connect rock 1.5m-2m below ground. The main worry from the engineer was not the weight down, but the pressure up. This also had implications for the design of the ceiling members because of the negative and positive pressure within the building that the ridge would deflect up as well as down, as would the valleys and rafters. There were also amazing carpentry components on the ceiling/roof structure

where old-school methods were adopted. Incredible technology features throughout, with Siri controlling most of the house through the owner’s Apple iWatch. The project faced an extremely tight timeframe. Williams Building Company signed the contract in January 2019, started work in the second week of February and the project was completed in December 2019. The result is an amazing home and one that the Williams Building Company team is extremely proud of. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: An example a true craftsmanship. Superb execution of a demanding design. A complex roof, exposed rafters and ceiling lining were features of this beautifully detailed project. Exemplary building work in a very competitive category.

WILLIAMS BUILDING COMPANY P/L

Tel: 0421 904 523 Licence number: 235416C Design: Avalon Cliff House

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 233

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $1.9 MILLION–$2 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY BLUESCOPE

KEITH ROOT BUILDING SERVICES PTY LTD

Tel: 9918 4372 Licence number: 40028 Design: Clareville Beach House Photography: Simon Whitbread

HUNTSMAN CONSTRUCTIONS

WILLIAMS BUILDING COMPANY P/L

234 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

HUNTSMAN CONSTRUCTIONS

KEITH ROOT BUILDING SERVICES PTY LTD

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $2 MILLION–$2.3 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY BLUESCOPE

VICTORIAN VILLA EXTENSION The transformation of this Glebe house was a project with some amazing and exciting design features. It embraced the cultural heritage of the century-old original home, while adding considered, contemporary design and functionality for the owners’ young family and its needs. The renovation and additions included a recycled face brickwork exterior and exposed steel beams that the construction combined with steel reveals and windows to complement each other beautifully. The light and space created in the new family living area and kitchen, with the clients’ homely colour and texture selections, give the home a fresh, bright and modern but warm feel, with the added charm and character of the original features of the home. Marrying an existing house with a new addition can always be tricky, but especially in this case where the project also involved undermining the rear of the old home to excavate a cellar.

Tying into the existing roof structure to create a large rumpus/theatre room above the 100-plus-year-old ceilings below was another challenge for the build. Burmah Constructions overcame this with a wonderful outcome for the architectural and structural integrity of the building. A couple of months into the build, a car stacker and lift was also confirmed and added to the project plans. This was another challenge resolved by a collaborative effort from builder, engineer, and the very flexible clients. The stacker and new design was successfully installed without any compromise to the completed exterior, garage and poolroom product. For the central fireplace in the rear living area, construction of this remarkable feature involved multiple stages of bagged brickwork, polished concrete, fireplace installation, and then more brickwork and bagging. With incredible clients and a great team of tradesmen, this was one of the most enjoyable projects that Burmah Constructions says that it has had the pleasure to complete. The company is proud to put its name to it and thrilled

that the owners appreciate it as much as Burmah Constructions does. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: A superbly executed work in every respect — a careful renovation of an existing Victorian villa with a beautiful modern extension featuring excellent finishes in bespoke joinery. The unusual design of the rear brick wall displayed exceptional skill. A pleasure to inspect and judge.

BURMAH CONSTRUCTIONS

Tel: 0409 645 945 Licence number: 148828C Design: Glebe House

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 235

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $2 MILLION–$2.3 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY BLUESCOPE

HP CONSTRUCTIONS PTY LTD

Tel: 0400 516 096 Licence number: 282978C Design: Koch House Photography: Tom Ferguson

BARRYBUILT PTY LTD

Tel: 0412 669 196 Licence number: 232785C

236 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $2.3 MILLION–$2.5 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY BLUESCOPE

DOUBLE BAY DELIGHT The project at Double Bay is on a narrow, long block of land (92m x 6m) comprising a main two-storey building, with a double garage at the front, a loft above, and a long alley, with the waterfront and a private beach at the back. The house was built in 1998 and the client’s idea for this renovation was to add more living space and refresh the entire house while maintaining the original details of the house. The main scope of work was for an extension of the main building, an extra bedroom, addition of courtyard adjacent to the bedrooms, renovation of the loft above the garage, new kitchen and bathroom layout, transformation of the external balcony facing the street into a larger living room, installation of Skyrange doubleglazed windows, new external Alucobond cladding, new European oak timber flooring, a new annexe next to the garage and with a provision to add another level later to join the annexe to the loft. Outside, the plan was for a bigger pond with new cleaning/filtration system. The home now features a new bridge over the new pond with two skimmers and new cleaning/filtration system, off-form concrete treads and a cinema/gaming room (new annexe) built to match the existing design of the main house — concrete slab on ground, double brick structure and off-form concrete roof. European oak tongue-and-groove engineered flooring was installed in all bedrooms, and the old carpet was removed. The creation of new bathrooms involved stripping the old tiles and laying new tiles, and the inclusion of new underfloor heating. Alucobond wall cladding features in the bathrooms and loft exterior walls to

minimise joints, achieving a seamless, clean look. A glass roof was installed above the living room extension. The new modern kitchen now includes a hidden and retractable sink tap, and an invisible integrated induction cooktop built with SapienStone sourced from Spain. The main challenges faced during construction included working with limited access to the site (through the front garage or beach side only), conducting demolition during limited hours due to units next door, extra noise control during demolition, extra dust control, the use of safety harnesses as no scaffolding was allowed on the neighbours’ side and converting the outdoor courtyard into a larger living room. Despite these challenges, the project was successfully completed within the budget and 11-month timeframe. Now the client has their dream home, and Probuilt Projects has another happy client. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: A challenging project to modify and extend an existing reinforced concrete dwelling. Large concrete slabs were supported then cut into small blocks for removal by hand on a narrowaccess site. All extensions and changes were seamlessly executed, giving no indication to the extent of alterations. This builder continues to produce excellent results.

PROBUILT PROJECTS

Tel: 0401 799 799 Licence number: 246681C

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 237

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $2.5 MILLION–$3 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY BLUESCOPE

HERITAGE TRANSFORMATION The renovation and addition to a 100-yearold heritage home with a high roof pitch has resulted in the roof space being turned into a main bedroom with an ensuite and his-and-her walk-in robes; and the creation of an additional bedroom with ensuite, robe and sitting area. The challenge was how to place steel members in the existing ceiling to support the floor and roof without damaging the 100-yearold heritage ceilings. Window openings were made in the existing brick gables. All of the lower existing floor was renovated, with new floorboards, bathrooms, kitchen and solid timber staircase, and the new opening was fitted with French doors. Existing archways now feature curved doors.

238 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

A new barbecue area was constructed and now houses an outdoor spa, while under the barbecue terrace is a gym room with its own bathroom. The basement was turned into a cellar room. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: Exceptional refined building work to renovate a heritage-listed property. All work respected and enhanced the Victorian detailing. A substantial first floor addition within the existing roof space was completed without impacting the integrity of the existing structure and its elements. A superior job of building in all its complexity.

CAPCAR BUILDING GROUP PTY LTD

Tel: 0418 444 146 Licence number: 136787C

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $2.5 MILLION–$3 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY BLUESCOPE

MLP CO PTY LTD

Tel: 9417 2000 Licence number: 262329C Design: Mosman Residence Photography: Guy Wilkinson

CAPCAR BUILDING GROUP PTY LTD

CAPCAR BUILDING GROUP PTY LTD MLP CO PTY LTD

MLP CO PTY LTD

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 239

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $3 MILLION–$4 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY BLUESCOPE

BESPOKE CONSTRUCTION Alterations and additions were carried out to an existing home that now features strong, primitive architectural influences and bespoke construction. Built on a sloping sandy beachfront site, the three-storey home with swimming pool involved many challenges during construction, including shoring of the surrounding land. Design and construction involved close consultation with architects and engineers to achieve the Mediterranean-style home using recycled hardwoods and bespoke finishes

240 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

including rough ‘drunken’ render. This is now a home that the clients, architects and builders are all very proud of. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: An unusual combination of material and finishes was a feature of this renovation. Extensive use of large turned hardwood posts and specialist wall treatment set this project apart. The builder was up to the challenge, producing a beautifully crafted result.

MATRIX ADDITIONS PTY LTD

Tel: 9564 2700 Licence number: 104225C

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $3 MILLION–$4 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY BLUESCOPE

LAWSON & LOVELL BUILDING SERVICES

Tel: 0414 998 697 Licence number: 233629C Design: The Grove Photography: Simon Whitbread

LAWSON & LOVELL BUILDING SERVICES

MATRIX ADDITIONS PTY LTD

LAWSON & LOVELL BUILDING SERVICES

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 241

HOUSE ADDITIONS/ALTERATIONS/RENOVATIONS $4 MILLION & OVER PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY BLUESCOPE

HERITAGE ELEMENTS Birchgrove House is a single-dwelling residential project highlighting the best that the Australian building industry has to offer. A complex project on a small site with difficult access and heritage considerations, this house is overflowing with intricate detailing and fine craftsmanship. The existing house was a modest cottage built with convict-era bricks. A key heritage requirement was the conservation of the streetscape façade of this cottage and its incorporation into the new build. This added a huge amount of complexity to the project. Not only was an extensive steel armature required to support the existing brickwork, but the 4.5m of sandstone bedrock that was to be excavated had to pass through an opening in the façade that was no bigger than a garage door. The protection of this façade was achieved by careful consideration and close management during the entire building process. The four-storey new structure is a complex weaving of the existing brick, new off-form concrete column and slab, new brick and blockwork, as well as lightweight timber and steel. Additional difficulty comes in the form of a pool built into the side of the house, visible through perspex windows at the basement level. A series of terraced roof gardens bring the landscape into the building itself. Together, this leaves zero room for error in the coordination of the structural elements, waterproofing details and all associated trades.

242 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

Despite these demanding requirements, no concessions have been made in the level of finish delivered in this project. The core materials of concrete, timber, steel and brick have been treated with respect throughout. Millimetre accuracy has brought the house as a whole into sharp focus, which unfolds almost as a piece of joinery. This is a one-off build full of one-off elements. From the lasercut steel windows, to the handmade doors and the custom bookcase running the height of the building, each element has been carefully considered. Working in such close collaboration with architects and makers allowed a responsive approach to building, in which an element can be refined many times over. This requires constant innovation and the application of years of experience in order to resolve these evolving details and junctions. For example, custom pressed hardwood ply was used as both interior cladding and for joinery, and detailed on site. In order to achieve a house like this, many details must be worked out as construction evolves. A cost-plus contract was agreed upon to ensure that the highest-quality

product was delivered. A huge amount of trust is placed in a builder by their client, especially in this cost-plus scenario. This trust was a key component of the eventual successful completion of this build, and managing those relationships throughout every stage ensured this outcome. Birchgrove House is an example of what can happen when all moving parts of the building process work in unison. It’s a house that leads the pack in quality, delivered on time and on budget. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: This meticulously documented and sophisticated architectural design required retention of existing heritage elements and a modern contemporary four-level extension. The off-form concrete was finished to the highest standard and veneered panels were secretly fixed over large wall and ceiling areas. The site access was challenging. Extraordinary work.

RE:FORM CONSTRUCTION

Tel: 0412 673 353 Licence number: 247955C Design: Birchgrove House

RESTORATION/ADDITION UP TO $2 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY BLUESCOPE

A BALANCE BETWEEN HERITAGE AND CONTEMPORARY 60 Argyle Place, Millers Point is now a unique dwelling for a family and balances the needs of contemporary living and respect for the heritage character of the fabric. As a result of the restoration, the dwelling now reveals more of the history than when the project commenced. The dwellings at 52-60 Argyle Place were built for Captain George Grimes, a whaling captain who built the cottage at 50 Argyle Place in 1834. 52-56 were built first as a stand-alone group between 1842 and 1843, and 58-60 were added in 1848. From 2008, 56, 58, 62 and 64 were offered to the private sector, leased and subsequently adapted as single-family residences. The houses at 52, 54 and 60 Argyle Place are part of a terrace, 52-60 Argyle Place, which is of state historic significance as one of the earliest terrace groups surviving in Sydney. These buildings are also significant for their probable association with noted architect John Bibb, and for their associations with Captain Grimes. All the houses are part of a precinct of state significance, and part of the two main

terrace groups facing Argyle Place, one of the most significant streetscapes in Sydney. The buildings contain a considerable amount of fabric from the 1840s, as well as from subsequent periods of construction, which yields information on the design, construction and use of these buildings. The dwelling had been renovated unsympathetically in 2014, which built upon renovations undertaken by the NSW Housing Commission in the late 1980s. The dwelling had operated as a boarding house with three distinct ‘flats’, each with their own services and some shared services. The site came under the jurisdiction of Sydney City Council. Because of the dwellings’ heritage significance on the NSW Heritage Register, all proposed works had to be approved by the NSW Heritage Commission. The work was further overviewed by heritage consultants and a heritage architect. The initial building program identified the re-instatement of the building into a single dwelling; removal of all joinery units and tiles to the lower ground floor; repair of the existing stairs, floors, doors and windows, repair roof leaks and gutters and the upgrade of existing services (water, electrical and gas). The first stage involved a systematic

process of slowly ‘un-building’ the dwelling. Each element had to be removed with care to avoid damage to the heritage fabric, and each stage had to be recorded and photographed as an archive. The process of ‘discovery’ revealed stone walls hidden behind studwork, original brickwork again hidden by studwork, original heads to doors, walls that had been in-filled to reduce the size of openings, incorrect internal doors and inappropriate roof sheeting. Permission was sought by the architect with the NSW Heritage Commission and council to re-instate and repair these items. In addition, a request was made to the NSW Heritage Commission and the council to replace the inappropriate roof with nonreactive roof sheets to prevent any future corrosion. Each application often took weeks, and, at times, months to resolve. The ‘mantra’ of the project was best summarised by: where possible reveal the heritage item; where possible repair the heritage item; where possible restore the heritage item; and only when repairs and restoration are not possible, only then replace items. Building was consequently slow, requiring hand crafting across the entire project. Installing new services into the dwelling was undertaken with almost surgical precision. New exhaust units from the kitchen and bathrooms had to be threaded at times some four storeys to the roof of the building. The arteries of the air conditioning had to be threaded through the existing fabric (walls, floor and ceilings). Set render now defines original stonework, while in the kitchen, the splashback also works as a window to reveal the original brickwork behind. Subtle lighting now washes the clean white walls linked through a smart wiring system. Outside, the garden too has been restored. It is a fine balance between heritage and contemporary. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: Restored external elements of this early 19th century residence concealed a beautifully modern renovation that still respects the building’s heritage. Levels of finish throughout were outstanding. Excellent work.

BLUESTONE HOMES PTY LTD

Tel: 9979 7523 Licence number: 208664C Photography: Simon Whitbread

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 243

RESTORATION/ADDITION $2 MILLION & OVER PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY BLUESCOPE

FORMER GLORY The Chelsea project, located in the heart of The Rocks in Lower Fort Street, is part of the Milton Terraces, considered one of the grandest surviving terraces in the City of Sydney. It was built as a landmark to be seen in the round and with a direct visual relationship to its physical settings including across Sydney Cove to Circular Quay, Bennelong and the Royal Botanic Gardens. The client wanted the house to be repaired to its original state and worked closely with Platre & Deco to follow all heritage regulations to bring it back to its former glory while allowing a contemporary lifestyle within. All timber rebuild was to match the original techniques and items missing were researched and reproduced to be reinstated, such as scarfing carpentry, rendering, and the remodelling of existing cornices. The difficulties encountered included installing a glass lift within an existing shaft without damaging the original fabric while allowing the original features of the construction and the history of the building to be visible. The attic space was remodelled into a new living area without intruding on the original roof structure and fitting all mechanical services. The basement of the building was transformed into a living space structurally while keeping and showing its original footprint. The building was particularly damp in that part, rendering the space unsuitable for living. Therefore, Platre & Deco created

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an extensive sub-floor draining system that solved all damp issues. The addition to the existing building had to remain an independent structure that became the kitchen seen from the above levels. The roof is a structure of copper and glass to let light into the basement and is a complex marriage of sandstone, steel, copper and glass. A new elaborate service diagram was engineered to allow for two grand bathrooms on the upper levels, thus respecting all the heritage restrictions and without impacting on the aesthetics of the interior design. The client wanted to re-instate all existing servant bells in working order. This was a trade that Platre & Deco had to study and learn — researching for hardware and putting

everything back together was the cherry on top of the cake for this project. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: A sensitive and exacting restoration of a dilapidated, historically important building. Despite the need to upgrade to modern standards, the Victorian detailing was meticulously reinstated. The project provides a contemporary residence while saving and enhancing a substantial 19th century dwelling. Craftsmanship at its very best.

PLATRE & DECO

Tel: 0408 261 327 Licence number: 254911C Design: Chelsea

ADAPTIVE RE-USE OPEN PRICE CATEGORY PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY BLUESCOPE

TOTAL TRANSFORMATION A storage complex that is bordered by 22 properties has been transformed into a very beautiful modern home that pays homage to its past and is above all, very unique. Obviously, being land locked by the surrounding properties brought challenges to the build. In particular, there were major sewer encasements and the piles required for the new ground floor slab were carefully threaded through these areas. To minimise impact to the surrounding neighbours, ground works, internal services and framing were built prior to the removal of the roof. This not only helped with disruption to neighbours, but ensured that the build was not affected by weather. The existing walls of the factory were remediated and then the entirety of the slab was infilled with a concrete slab and timber frame structure to both the walls and roof. The existing bricks were salvaged from the 100-plus-year-old building and reused in the courtyards around the home.

The essence of this project was all about clean lines and minimal details and tolerance was to the millimetre. The entire floor area was tiled with stone tiles with hydronic heating throughout. One key feature was the use of the Vitrocsa window system and again, all components of the windows and doors were to the finest of tolerances. There was a focus on the detailing to ensure that clean lines carried all the way through the build, with custom-made pivot door handles and no skirtings all adding to the finish. Joinery was key also, with black stained joinery and stainless-steel benchtops for the kitchen. Stone basins were also manufactured using stainless-steel frames and 20mm-thick stone slabs. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: Bau Group converted an old run-down storage facility into a home, incorporating lots of natural light throughout. The builder captured the designer/architect brief in delivering a home portraying simple, minimal, clean lines of walls and finishes without compromise to detail. Although the brief focused on simple, clean lines, there was a minimal tolerance to

work with — plus or minus one millimetre. Bau Group achieved the desired results through quality, accuracy and the delivery of excellence in finishes.

BAU GROUP

Tel: 0425 288 390 Licence number: 172656C Design: Queens Park

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 245

SPECIAL PURPOSE HOUSING PROJECT OPEN PRICE CATEGORY PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ACTRONAIR

INDEPENDENT LIVING These innovative, multi-dwelling homes for people with disabilities are the first of their kind in Australia. With six bedrooms across two dwellings, the homes provide intimacy and community for NDIS participants who wish to live independently at fully accessible and high physical support levels in Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA). The timeframe was exceptionally tight, and due to the dwelling being a pilot home, there was a lot of changes, variations and revisions along the way. The end date could not move, as the Prime Minister was opening the project. BA Murphy Constructions absorbed changes, logistical challenges and weather delays to achieve the outcome for the client. The build has been delivered with meticulous attention to detail and countless hours of planning — both design and logistically. There is absolutely nothing standard about this

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home, from the design brief, to the full home automation system, to the cabinetry, fixtures and fittings and material palettes. To enable independent living from a wheelchair, standard home features include oversized doors and corridors; open-plan kitchens, dining and living; larger spaces to allow for mobility devices and flush, singlelevel living inside and out; plus innovative home automation; large-format windows; designer appliances and quality finishes. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: The homes were designed and built to enable independent living from a wheelchair with oversized doors and hallways; and open-plan kitchens, dining

and living areas. The judges were particularly impressed with the voice-activated moving components in these fully automated homes. The outcome of this pilot program was exceptional, with the builders’ performance and quality of finish to such a high standard that the client has secured funding for a further 16 dwellings to be rolled out in 2020.

BA MURPHY CONSTRUCTIONS

Tel: 07 5493 1113 Licence number: 327542C Design: DPN Casa Capace Pilot Home Photography: Tyrone Brannigan

ENERGY EFFICIENCY — HOUSING UP TO $800,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ALINTA ENERGY

JUDGES’ COMMENTS: This house is a good example of a passive solar healthy home and how a healthy home can still result in a beautiful and extremely energyefficient home. Its simple design and features prove that energy-efficient homes can look and feel beautiful and still work, even in the challenging climate of Blackheath. The exterior walls of the house are 400mm-thick lime rendered strawbale rated at R7.1, and the internal walls are 100mm earth-rendered cob. This combination provides an insulating perimeter with a core of thermal mass to moderate and stabilise the internal temperature. The clay and lime

renders allow the walls to breathe which adjusts the internal humidity to be between 40 to 70 per cent. With careful placement of windows, doors, eaves and external shading, summer heat gain is minimised, while still allowing winter sun into the house. The windows and doors are timber framed and double glazed to further improve heat control. The site is also in a bushfire zone.

VIVA LIVING HOMES

Tel: 1300 929 111 Licence number: 229457C Design: Blackheath “Stepping Stone”

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 247

ENERGY EFFICIENCY — HOUSING UP TO $800,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ALINTA ENERGY

VIVA LIVING HOMES

Tel: 1300 929 111 Licence number: 229457C Design: Hampton Heights Photography: Simone Cottrell

CONOR MURPHY

Tel: 0410 578 686 Licence number: 118327C Design: Balgowlah CLT Passive House Photography: Hao Quan Cai

248 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

ENERGY EFFICIENCY — HOUSING UP TO $800,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ALINTA ENERGY

ICON HOMES

Tel: 1800 694 266 Licence number: 188457C Design: The Avora

CONOR MURPHY

VIVA LIVING HOMES

CONOR MURPHY ICON HOMES

VIVA LIVING HOMES

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 249

ENERGY EFFICIENCY — HOUSING $800,001– $2 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ALINTA ENERGY

JUDGES’ COMMENTS: This Australian country farmhouse was inspired by the wide brim of an upside-down Akubra hat. The offgrid family home is set atop a gently sloping hill on a 314-hectare cattle farm in regional NSW, taking in the surrounding vistas across paddocks and gum trees. All living areas and bedrooms have been arranged around the perimeter of the house to take in the panoramic views. Utility rooms are in a central ‘service’ core with skylights and ventilation. Outside features a large patio with barbecue area, an outdoor room and fire pit, all sheltered by a generous roof, which maximises water catchment and provides shade through the hotter months. The build utilised simple materials such as concrete, timber and corrugated metal to meet the clients’ brief of a simple, robust

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and self-sufficient house and a combination of high-tech solutions and thoughtful passive design. The timber-framed windows and doors are double-glazed to control heat transfer. To assist in providing fresh air to all the rooms without losing or gaining unwanted heat, the ceiling void is fitted with a heat recovery ventilation unit, which circulates fresh air to all rooms and is fitted with a heat exchanger to reduce energy losses. A new water bore was installed on the site, which has water supplied by pipes and pumps. A 120,000-litre rainwater tank is

connected to the large roof. The carport roof is wholly photovoltaic panels of 8kW capacity that feed into a 74kWh battery storage system, supplying power to LED lighting, ceiling fans, all appliances, and a small airconditioner for the peak hot or cold days.

BLUE ECO HOMES

Tel: 4754 5608 Licence number: 197017C Design: Upside Down Akubra House Photography: Barton Taylor Photography

ENERGY EFFICIENCY — HOUSING $800,001– $2 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ALINTA ENERGY

BLUE ECO HOMES

Tel: 4754 5608 Licence number: 197017C Design: SAPPHIRE

SEKISUI HOUSE

Tel: 1800 951 068 Licence number: 226045C Design: SHINKA House — SHAWOOD

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 251

ENERGY EFFICIENCY — HOUSING $2 MILLION & OVER PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ALINTA ENERGY

JUDGES’ COMMENTS: The brief was to maintain the existing footprint and utilise part of the existing structure, and to create a contemporary building that embraces and complements the natural setting with state-of-the-art, energy-saving installations. Maximising the Sydney Harbour and nature reserve views was paramount, with careful consideration to the aspect of the building. The house is in a flame zone, so thorough planning of the home’s protection was undertaken with a fire consultant. The clients were very interested in keeping the house as green and thermally efficient as possible. They fulfilled their dream in several ways, including high levels of thermal insulation, and all windows and doors are double glazed. Solar panels are connected to battery backup with remote monitoring. The house has been wired for smart home installation, which includes automated blinds, curtains and fire shutters. Sensors in selected areas provide low-level lighting at night. Dimmable and automated lights can be remotely controlled via a phone app. LED lighting is used throughout the house. Fire shutters are externally fitted to windows that can be used as sun-shading devices, and also control winter heat loss. A 20,000-litre water storage tank is plumbed for garden irrigation, laundry and toilets.

LAWSON & LOVELL BUILDING SERVICES

Tel: 0414 998 697 Licence number: 233629C Photography: Simon Whitbread

252 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

ENERGY EFFICIENCY — HOUSING $2 MILLION & OVER PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ALINTA ENERGY

BLUE ECO HOMES

Tel: 4754 5608 Licence number: 197017C Design: Wentworth Falls

LAWSON & LOVELL BUILDING SERVICES

BLUE ECO HOMES

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 253

ENERGY EFFICIENCY — MEDIUM DENSITY OPEN PRICE CATEGORY PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY ALINTA ENERGY

JUDGES’ COMMENTS: The Fern Passivhaus Apartments comprises 11 one-bed apartments and is the first in the Southern Hemisphere built to the rigorous Passivhaus standard. The Fern achieves passive house principles of stringent air tightness, continuous unbroken insulation, high-performance glazing, structural thermal breaks, and heat recovery ventilation. Full-height triple-glazed sliding doors with flush seals lead onto generous balconies and gardens for the best indoor-outdoor living. All apartments benefit from the natural light and view in the common atrium, which greets visitors on entry with two 15m-high green walls, acting as a rainforest valley in the heart of the city. Heat recovery ventilation (HRV) works continuously to replace stale air in the apartments with fresh outdoor air, which is first filtered and then passed through a heat exchanger to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature in an energy-efficient way. The Fern is carbon neutral and highly energy efficient, thanks to the passive house design principles employed throughout.

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The apartments received NatHERS ratings ranging from 9.3 to 10 stars out of 10. Triple-glazed, argon-filled, thermally broken windows and sliding doors which incorporate custom seals and a lift-and-slide opening mechanism create a perfect air lock. A 21kW solar photovoltaic array on the roof ensures the apartments will enjoy a fossilfuel and carbon-neutral power supply. The Fern has a smart microgrid that will allow the residents to be self-sufficient in electricity, but also have the flexibility to connect back to the larger grid. Each apartment has individual metering of electricity and hot water used, so that the residents only pay for what they use.

Insulation at The Fern is roughly double the insulation level typically used in Sydney apartments, and is installed as a continuous barrier rather than between structural elements. This eliminates thermal bridges and acts as a blanket to cocoon the living spaces. The roof is R7.0, walls are R3.5, and floors are R1.5.

STEELE ASSOCIATES

Tel: 8003 3294 Licence number: 238579C Design: FERN Passivhaus Apartments Photography: Steele Associates Architects

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT — HOUSING UP TO $1 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY CBUS

JUDGES’ COMMENTS: The Sapphire is a quality-constructed display home and a Certified Passive House, built using rigorous standards to achieve quantifiable energy efficiency as well as comfort through five design principles: extreme air tightness, continuous insulation, high-performance windows and doors, no thermal bridges and a Mechanical Heat Recovery Ventilation system. While reducing environmental impact, residents of a Passive House enjoy excellent indoor air quality and temperature year-round. The Sapphire is an equal first Certified Passive House in NSW, the first Certified Passive House in the Blue Mountains, the first Certified Passive House in Australia to meet the highest bushfire risk rating — Bushfire Attack Level Flame Zone (BAL-FZ) and the first house in NSW to receive Healthy House Australia Certification.

Healthy houses use specific construction methods and materials to reduce the risk of condensation, mould, electromagnetic fields, toxins, chemical off-gassing and other risks to health. All paints and finishes are low VOC (volatile organic compounds), and low-formaldehyde boards, low-toxin furniture and bedding and chemical-free cleaning products were used. To enhance the environmental impact, the windows and doors are triple-glazed UPVC (Ultraviolet stabilised PVC). Smart technology is used to control flame zone shutters and the efficient LED lighting. A 5kW solar photovoltaic system with 10kW battery storage system improves the environmental impact. A Mechanical Heat Recovery Ventilation system continually draws filtered outdoor air into living spaces and bedrooms and exhausts

stale air from bathrooms and kitchens, delivering fresh tempered air to the home. Rainwater is collected from the roof into a 22,000-litre rainwater tank, which is connected to all internal fixtures. The kitchen sink tap is the only tap connected to the mains water supply, which will be used mostly for drinking as it is treated with fluoride for teeth health. Hot water is provided from a heat pump system. Any excavated materials were re-used on the site, with rocks also used for the building and landscaping. The finished home is bright and comfortable with low environmental impact.

BLUE ECO HOMES

Tel: 4754 5608 Licence number: 197017C Design: SAPPHIRE

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 255

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT — HOUSING UP TO $1 MILLION PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY CBUS

SEKISUI HOUSE

Tel: 1800 951 068 Licence number: 226045C Design: SHINKA House — SHAWOOD

VIVA LIVING HOMES

Tel: 1300 929 111 Licence number: 229457C Design: Hampton Heights Photography: Simone Cottrell

256 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT — HOUSING $1 MILLION & OVER PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY CBUS

JUDGES’ COMMENTS: The Wentworth Falls design is located in the Blue Mountains on a vacant site, with an incredibly steep slope throughout. The floorplan was designed to step down through different levels and follow the slope of the land, resulting in a large open-plan, high-volume space. The site was classified as being in an extreme bushfire zone (BAL-FZ) and any materials used externally would have to withstand a heat load of more than 70kW. Concrete, steel, and bushfire shutters were used to comply with strict bushfire regulations. The look and feel of the building had to be industrial with raw concrete floors and walls. Other materials used were glass, recycled timber, old sleepers, rusted steel and stone.

The structure is well insulated with the roof and ceiling being R6.8, the external walls made of concrete insulated pre-cast panels being R2.4, the windows and doors are aluminium, thermally broken double-glazed windows feature throughout and the polished concrete floors are R2.0. Low-VOC paints and low-VOC joinery were used throughout this design for a better indoor environment. Mechanically controlled awning windows and block-out shutters control heat flow and provide fire protection. A 27,000-litre water tank collects water from the room for use within the house. The house exceeds the BASIX water target by 66 per cent and the energy target by 53 per cent.

Minimal clearing of trees on the site was instructed by the owners. Excavated rock and soil was reused on site. Extensive erosion control and maintenance was taken throughout the project duration. Provision was made during construction for a 10kW solar photovoltaic system, to be installed by the owner.

BLUE ECO HOMES

Tel: 4754 5608 Licence number: 197017C Design: Wentworth Falls

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 257

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT — HOUSING $1 MILLION & OVER PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY CBUS

BLUE ECO HOMES

Tel: 4754 5608 Licence number: 197017C Design: Upside Down Akubra House Photography: Barton Taylor Photography

BLUE ECO HOMES

BLUE ECO HOMES BLUE ECO HOMES

BLUE ECO HOMES

258 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT — MEDIUM DENSITY OPEN PRICE CATEGORY PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY CBUS

JUDGES’ COMMENTS: The builders chose to make The Fern Passivhaus because it is the most rigorous, comprehensive method of green building, with predictably high levels of comfort and efficiency. As it is the first apartment building of its type in Australia, the builders faced many challenges and found innovative solutions. Passivhaus is a scientific approach to building that focuses on five key strategies to reduce energy consumption and improve internal environmental quality; eliminating thermal bridges; airtightness; highperformance glazing; good insulation; and heat recovery ventilation. One of The Fern’s most important innovations was to design and build Sydney’s first structural thermal breaks, to eliminate thermal bridges. These are commercially available in Europe, but are oversized and also cost prohibitive in Sydney’s benign climate, so the builders invented a new design at approximately a third of the price. A study by CSIRO has found that an average home in Sydney has an air infiltration rate of 20.8 air changes per

hour when tested at 50 pascals (20.8 ACH@50Pa). The Fern’s infiltration rate is below 0.6 ACH@50Pa for every apartment. This provides improved thermal comfort; eliminating draughts; reducing noise, dust and pollutants; and pest exclusion. The Fern uses triple glazing in windows and doors, with argon-filled gaps. This keeps the inside cosy in winter, and double Low-Emissivity coating keeps the sun’s heat out in summer. Insulation at The Fern is roughly double the insulation level typically used in Sydney apartments, and is installed as a continuous barrier rather than between structural elements. This eliminates thermal bridges and acts as a blanket to cocoon the living spaces. The roof is R7.0, walls are R3.5, and floors are R1.5. Heat Recovery Ventilation (HRV) works continuously to replace stale air within the apartments with fresh outdoor air, which is first filtered and then passed through a heat exchanger to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature in an energy-efficient way. Concrete has a large amount of embodied energy, causing a high

environmental impact. This impact has been reduced by using 3-point Green Star concrete, in which 40 per cent of the cement and 40 per cent of the aggregate is replaced with industrial waste products such as fly ash and blast furnace slag. Low-VOC paints and finishes are used throughout interiors. The concrete walls are finished with a natural Carnauba wax internally for a natural glow that varies throughout the day. Timber joinery is oiled with natural Tung Oil that won’t scratch like other timber finishes. The distinctive exterior cladding is corrugated magnesium oxide board and is finished with a mineral paint that will never require a further coat. The Fern is one of a kind in Australia, and spells the beginning of a trend of truly elevated, sustainable urban living.

STEELE ASSOCIATES

Tel: 8003 3294 Licence number: 238579C Design: FERN Passivhaus Apartments Photography: Steele Associates Architects

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 259

BEST USE OF TIMBER PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MBIB

SKILLED CARPENTRY The winning Best Use of Timber project consisted of internal demolition of the ground floor area and strip out of all bathrooms. During the demolition process, a large area was discovered that had been subjected to water leaks and which displayed a significant amount of dry rot. Approximately 30 per cent of the existing floor frame had to be replaced. The removal of several internal and one external load-bearing wall required a steel frame to be installed. The architect, Matt Elkan, had very definite ideas about the use of hardwood and its integration into the whole building fabric; from major structural elements down to joinery items, skirtings and furniture. This concept was welcomed and quickly adopted by the Oikos Construction team. The rather enthusiastic approach by the carpenters, together with the owner, resulted in a very constructive relationship between architect, owner and builder. A lot of detailed design was developed during the construction with the input of all involved. One difficulty was to integrate different building elements such as windows, joinery, flooring and other hardwood items, so as to give the appearance of seamless continuity. The need for continuous hardwood posts

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exceeding a length of 8m created a construction difficulty which was solved by implementing simple traditional connections: long scarf joints with butterfly locks. The employment of traditional carpentry methods, the results of which was readily discernible, added interesting elements to the finished building. Simple physics was used to achieve a solution for a naturally cooled, on-site, custom-built wine cabinet. The incorporation of hardwood features, as designed by the architect, enabled the achievement of a completed building in which the alterations and additions could not be distinguished from the original house content. The clever use of certain concrete

elements and visually expressed stainlesssteel connection details added a sense of contemporary design without compromising the conservative homeliness of the project. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: This renovation showcases skilled carpentry. It is rare to see such extensive use of exposed local seasoned hardwood for beams, posts, joists, windows, doors and kitchen joinery. All work was carried out to the highest standard. A credit to the builder.

OIKOS CONSTRUCTION

Tel: 0422 691 099 Licence number: 186534C

BEST USE OF CONCRETE PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MBIB

House Taurus also involved a high level of co-ordination for the installation of a multitude of high-tech equipment. The house is fitted with a smart home system, including the front motorised sliding panel gate with an ornate iron design made in France. There are two lifts and an escalator, all commercial grade by Kone. House Taurus also features a triple-level car stacker, a sauna, jet spa, cool room and two Sub-Zero fridges. A 17m-long pool was built under one of the house voids and has an in-floor cleaning system, and a floating cover that can be automatically retracted to a well within the pool’s base. A boatshed is housed on the harbour beach. The careful execution of House Taurus demanded a high level of foresight, planning, detail resolution and strict attendance to building tolerances throughout every stage of the project. To achieve the construction program, Bellevarde Constructions provided management and trade resources to a number of workfronts concurrently to ensure that a highly integrated architectural design was built as well as it could be. To create the foundation for House Taurus, a substantial excavation had to be undertaken. At the street entry, an 18m-deep shaft was cut out. A tunnel was dug, linking the main water frontage of the site to the street entry. The tunnel is 30m long, and at its deepest is more than 16m under natural ground level. The harbour frontage

area of the site also had to be shored on three sides, anywhere from 3m to 9m deep. As the gradient was so significant, and access so restrictive, a piling rig could not be brought onto site. Instead, the shoring was undertaken by digging hand piles, rock anchoring these, then underpinning the piles, anchoring the underpinning in a sequence that went through the initial 4m of sand and then into rock. Two Sydney Water sewer mains ran through the site and had to be relocated. Both had to kept live during the works, with only a six-hour shutdown for the swapover. A new sea wall was built under the high tide mark. Overall, this residence is an immaculately crafted home and a prime example of an achievement made possible when many parties work together towards a central goal. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: All external walls and most of the internal walls and stairs are Class 1 off-form concrete in various curves and angles. The attention to detail is amazing, with every pour finished at certain spots so you cannot see where it stops and starts. This is a work of art in a brutal form.

BELLEVARDE CONSTRUCTIONS

Tel: 02 6295 2928 Licence number: 31493 Design: House Taurus Photography: Brett Boardman

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 261

BEST USE OF STEEL PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MBIB

ALL HANDS ON DECK DJB was approached by architects MHDP on behalf of these clients to price this difficult access and detailed construction on the side of a cliff in Seaforth, overlooking Bantry Bay. The client’s brief was to create a space for their new puppy to access while they were at work, and bring the family together in the evening. Following alterations in the design and a reduction in scope due to the sheer cost to carry out this small extension, DJB was signed on to carry out the build, named Kite Deck. DJB begin work in the peak of summer, perched against the cliff. Post footing pour, DJB engaged Marco Steel to draft and fabricate the steel. This raised the first of several challenges with access and the manual handling of steel as the team couldn’t fit a crane in the narrow street that it had allowed for the manual handling of structural steel and materials. DJB realised that this wasn’t physically possible or safe. Enter Construction Rescue, with its mammoth hiab truck capabilities. All

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materials were delivered and the structural steel installed in one day. As a result, a 14-hour day allowed the installation of the difficult steel, the curved stairs and all materials required for the build, including the spa, lowered into the drop zone after dark. The decking is Fijian mahogany in custom sizes, with each board run alternating in width, creating a pattern effect when viewed from the house above. DJB also designed the balustrade detail, incorporating this into the steel fabrication. This project really does encapsulate the attention to detail that has transformed this once unusable backyard. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: This project required complex tightly curved structural steel work, installed on a steeply sloping site requiring crane access. Multiple flights of stairs and decking stepped down a sandstone cliff. The builder had to deal with any distortions that can occur when galvanising large curved sections. An outstanding achievement.

DJB CONSTRUCTION AND CARPENTRY PTY LTD

Tel: 0430 058 944 Licence number: 236752C Design: Kite Deck

BEST USE OF GLASS PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MBIB

NO PLACE TO THROW STONES This recently completed project is the ultimate Sydney beach house located in a prime position overlooking Bronte and Tamarama beaches. From the street, this residence is a commanding four-level structure, built predominantly in concrete and masonry. The lower ground and ground floors of the house feature sandstone and rammed earth walls. The project involved a very complex demolition of the existing house, which was elevated from the street on a steep site. Once the existing house was demolished, rock excavation began, with approximately 1500m³ of rock removed. The lift shaft was constructed out of glass blocks, which were a challenge to work

with. The structural steel had to be set out to work to brick courses as the glass blocks cannot be cut. Surrounding the lift shaft over the four levels is a steel-framed staircase with glass treads. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: There are many glass features throughout this house, from very tight curved corners to an amazing staircase with glass treads and risers. A lift in the staircase centre is surrounded with glass blocks, some of them curved. No place to throw stones!

KINN CONSTRUCTION

Email: hello@kinn.com.au Licence number: 131439C Design: Pacific View Point House Photography: Nicholas Watt (external photos) and Prue Ruscoe (internal photos)

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 263

BEST USE OF BRICKS PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MBIB

BUILT TO LAST Perched in a spectacular location on a south-facing headland in Sydney, Bangalley was designed to withstand the elements, and built to last. The design required excavation to accommodate a lower level, and this needed to be done very carefully so as not to disturb three massive Norfolk Island Pines and a natural sandstone outcrop immediately adjacent to the building footprint. A five-tonne sandstone pillar was cut from the site and craned into position to support an arched concrete canopy leading to the front door. Another huge piece of stone was cut from the excavation and craned into place to form an impressive fireplace hearth. The fireplace is a Rumford design from more than 200 years ago, updated with a curved breast off-form concrete lintel and stainless-steel smoke chamber. Access to the site was via a narrow battle-axe driveway, which meant that most of the building materials needed to be offloaded at street level and brought up to site in thousands of additional small loads, and then craned into place. This was the first time these handcrafted Italian bricks had been used in Australia,

264 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

and they posed multiple dilemmas. Unlike machine-made bricks, they varied considerably in colour and form. Five different colours had been chosen requiring careful blending and laying. The use of the darkest possible mortar on the external bricks and the whitest possible mortar on the internal bricks meant that constant careful washing was needed to prevent cross staining. With no skirtings, cornices or gyprock anywhere, there was nowhere to hide any fault. The site is rated Flame Zone — the highest possible Bushfire Attack Level — and this required exacting building standards. The headland is also subject to howling salt-laden southerlies, so everything needed to be corrosion resistant, from the stainlesssteel concrete reinforcing mesh and brick ties to the specially designed and made fine brass railings. The railings were assembled on site, strapped to boards and lowered into pre-drilled holes in the stone-tiled balconies. The concrete work included cantilevered rooms and balconies. The concrete ceilings in the lower level involved constructing formwork with narrow strips of timber cut to match the width of the bricks. The central concrete off-form stairs

were built to create the illusion that they were floating. The living room features fully retractable doors to two sides, made possible by a load-defying brass-clad post allowing for panoramic corner views. The central brass stair screen was designed to be as transparent as possible, but the narrowness of the bent brass rods was challenging to manufacture and bracing and exacting adjustments were required to get the spacing perfect. After delays caused by lost brick shipments and tricky detailed joinery, the building took two years in total, but the result is a spectacular light-filled house that’s loved by the owners. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: The bricks used for this house are different to the average size — being longer and very narrow proved to be very testing for the bricklayer’s set out. In several areas, panels feature the brick laid in various slants and angles. A great job.

GRAYBUILT PTY LTD

Tel: 0419 606 592 Licence number: 193797C Design: Bangalley Photography: Michael Nicholson

Leaders in Brick & Blocklaying Services EASTERN SUBURBS, NORTH SHORE, NORTHERN BEACHES

3 1

1 Henley House Think Brick Horbury Hunt Residential Award Winner 2020 2 Lavender Bay Face Brickwork 5 level luxury house. Petersen Bricks, rolling random bond 3 Double Bay $10m Category WInner 2018 4 Darling Point Duplex MBA 2020 Award $10-11M Contract House

Over 20 Years Experience in Commercial & Residential Projects • We Deliver on Time & on Budget • Large Highly Skilled Workforce • We Offer a Variety of Pricing Structures •

Fixed Lump Sum - Supply & Lay

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Day Labour

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Schedule of Rates

jobricklaying

BEST USE OF COPPER PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY MBIB

266 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

this continually increasing sense of intimacy, privacy and retreat experienced descending through the house. These three storeys are continuously linked through a triple-height stepped courtyard and a series of terraced spaces that serve to bring daylight and fresh air into the centre while visually connecting the individual levels and volumes. The external works also include extensive new landscaping, a lap pool, a Japanese outdoor bath, and a cabana/external study. Wingadal House is predominantly constructed in concrete and clad in locally sourced Wondabyne sandstone. The building form is characterised by its thick monolithic perimeter walls with a system of large-scale openings punctured through to selectively frame views. Contrasted against this is an overlaid copper brise soleil, creating a veiled shaded appearance to the perimeter glazing, while controlling views into and out from the building, and modulating light entering into the individual rooms and spaces. Internally, the natural stone detailing is complemented by the rich dark recycled karri hardwood that lines the floor, ceiling, solid timber full-height doors and joinery, and contrasted against the crisp white plaster walls and large clear glass panel windows. Copper is utilised throughout as accents and

panelling, most strikingly as a textured weave lining for the barrel-vaulted roof. Bespoke brass light fittings, stone vanities, illuminated ribbed glass splashbacks, and copper door hardware are all custom designed to further enhance the artisanal nature of Wingadal House. The success of these processes can be attributed to collaboration between the builder, architect and many skilled fabricators resolving and testing solutions. A prime example is the custom copper woven vaulted ceiling which required extensive prototyping to identify the correct patterning, bandwidth, tonality, construction methodology and panel size to achieve its shape and textured outcome. These collaborations were continuously drawn upon throughout the three-year construction process of Wingadal House. This was integral to reach the high level of design outcome expected by the clients, and resolve the complexities with building on a prominent harbourside location with a steep terrain and incorporating a series of existing built footings. The site required extensive geotechnical investigations into deriving a piling system and excavation process that would allow for the terracing of the form. This meticulously crafted nature of Wingadal House is due to its carefully sequenced experiences transitioning from exterior to interior environments, wandering between uninhibited landscapes and intimate sanctuaries. Wingadal House is a celebration of artisanal technique and a return to the bespoke. The house is an ode to the enrichment and craftsmanship that can be achieved through the persistence and collaboration of builders and architects striving to achieve the highest level of design quality. Every moment is carefully choreographed with perfectly framed views, a rich material palette that heightens the changing qualities of light through the day, and the delicate intimacy of every hand-crafted detail. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: This project needs to be seen to be believed. The ceiling of the top floor is in 50mm copper strip, basket weaved to cover the whole area as well as under the eaves. There are impressive copper features throughout, both inside and out.

PIMAS GALE PTY LTD

Tel: 9436 2299 Licence number: 292743C Design: Point Piper Photography: Rory Gardiner

TRADITIONAL OR GEOMETRIC CONCRETE POOLS UP TO $50,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY UNIVERSAL MEDIA CO

JUDGES’ COMMENTS: At 2.8m x 2.7m, this small fully tiled pool fits perfectly in this client’s courtyard. Crystal Pools has proven that small areas still allow for the installation of usable plunge pools and for the inclusion of every option that you might find in a larger pool.

CRYSTAL POOLS PTY LTD

Tel: 9875 4555 Licence number: 34505 Dimensions: 2.8m x 2.7m Design: Balmain East

SENATOR POOLS PTY LTD

Tel: 9894 9222 Licence number: 184063C Dimensions: 3.9m x 3.6m Design: Murriverie

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 267

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SINGLE ISSUES OF SUBSCRIPTION DEALS ARE AVAILABLE AT UNIVERSALSHOP.COM.AU

TRADITIONAL OR GEOMETRIC CONCRETE POOLS $50,001–$100,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY UNIVERSAL MEDIA CO

JUDGES’ COMMENTS: Part of a new house build on a waterfront property, this pool and spa are divided by granite stepping stones and glass windows, and the spa has an infinity edge for water to run over a glass window down through pebbles in the balance tank below. The weir wall is tiled in white glass mosaics and the pool interior is tiled with individual Sukabumi stone tiles from Bali. The pool is the focal point of the house and when lit by multi-coloured LED lights, can be seen from the window at the end of the pool or from the house’s upper levels. A water feature cascades down from

the upper level — the water sheet has been cleverly hidden in the wall of the house. The pool is in the perfect location to view sunsets on the river from within the pool, on the deck or while relaxing in the spa. Another superb win for Artesian Pools.

ARTESIAN POOLS PTY LTD

Tel: 9570 1955 Licence number: 197383C Dimensions: 7.5m x 3.5m pool, 3.5m x 1.8m spa Design: Oyster Bay

THE OTHER SIDE LANDSCAPES PTY LTD

Tel: 9680 7703 Licence number: 240817C Dimensions: 8m x 4m Design: East Ryde project

270 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

TRADITIONAL OR GEOMETRIC CONCRETE POOLS $50,001–$100,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY UNIVERSAL MEDIA CO

CRYSTAL POOLS PTY LTD

Tel: 9875 4555 Licence number: 34505 Dimensions: 10.8m x 4m Design: Bella Vista pool

The ability and experience behind the art

02 9570 1955 2020 MBA Excellence in Swimming Pool Awards – Joint Winner Traditional or Geometric Concrete Pools $100,000 and over

2020 MBA Excellence in Pool Awards – WINNER

www.artesianpools.com.au info@artesianpools.com.au

Building & Designing Exceptional Concrete Swimming Pools & Spas for over 25 years.

Traditional or Geometric Concrete Pools $50,001 to $100,000

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 271

TRADITIONAL OR GEOMETRIC CONCRETE POOLS $50,001–$100,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY UNIVERSAL MEDIA CO

CRYSTAL POOLS PTY LTD

Tel: 9875 4555 Licence number: 34505 Dimensions: 7.6m x 4m Design: Mona Vale

CRYSTAL POOLS PTY LTD

Tel: 9875 4555 Licence number: 34505 Dimensions: 9m x 4m Design: Brookvale

CRYSTAL POOLS AND CHATEAU ARCHITECTS + BUILDERS

Tel: 9875 4555 Licence number: 34505 Dimensions: 10.3m x 3.5m Design: Brookvale

272 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

TRADITIONAL OR GEOMETRIC CONCRETE POOLS $50,001–$100,000 PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY UNIVERSAL MEDIA CO

SENATOR POOLS PTY LTD

Tel: 9894 9222 Licence number: 184063C Dimensions: 10m x 4m Design: Salamander

THE OTHER SIDE LANDSCAPES PTY LTD

CRYSTAL POOLS PTY LTD

CRYSTAL POOLS AND CHATEAU ARCHITECTS + BUILDERS

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 273

TRADITIONAL OR GEOMETRIC CONCRETE POOLS $100,001 & OVER PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY UNIVERSAL MEDIA CO

JUDGES’ COMMENTS: FreeStyle Pools made the impossible possible when it transformed a steep, unusable backyard into an entertainers’ dream. With the pool 5m out of ground on one side, and 2.6m on the other, the structural design and construction of this pool was extraordinary. Structurally, the design had to change during construction as the rock shelf had a crevasse under the middle of the pool. A 60m-long ‘bush track’ for construction access meant that all materials had to be carried in by hand, which made this build a huge achievement. The addition of a new decked area with barbecue and stairs to a future self-contained flat under the pool

transformed an otherwise unusable space. The pool’s height places it in the canopy of surrounding trees, and the infinity edge and glass fencing give the pool spectacular visual impact. The pool’s pearlescent white tiles sparkle when viewed from above and are in stark contrast to the spa’s black mosaics. Excellent work from FreeStyle Pools.

FREESTYLE POOLS

Tel: 9875 1122 Licence number: 49258C Dimensions: 7.7m x 6.2m pool, 2.4m x 1.8m spa

FREESTYLE POOLS

Tel: 9875 1122 Licence number: 49258C Dimensions: 10.5m x 5m pool, 2.5m x 1.6m spa

274 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

TRADITIONAL OR GEOMETRIC CONCRETE POOLS $100,001 & OVER PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY UNIVERSAL MEDIA CO

JUDGES’ COMMENTS: Designed to optimise the location’s natural beauty, this pool celebrates spectacular river views, with plenty of poolside seating and additional space for outdoor living. The position of the integrated spa was carefully considered to ensure breathtaking views from all angles. Built on a large steep block, the pool sits on a high vantage point along the property edge. While this position provides

exceptional river views, and ensures level access to the pool from the residence, it made for a tricky construction. Due to difficult site access, all excavation was by hand, and piering, retaining walls and steps were required. The colour palette throughout the entire outdoor area complements the riverside location. Merbau timber steps, seating and storage blend seamlessly with the surrounds, while the

stonework and contrasting glass mosaic interior tiles remain harmonious with the landscape. Nice work from Artesian Pools.

ARTESIAN POOLS PTY LTD

Tel: 9570 1955 Licence number: 197383C Dimensions: 6.4m x 4m pool, 2m x 2m spa Design: Oatley

SENATOR POOLS PTY LTD

Tel: 9894 9222 Licence number: 184063C Dimensions: 12m x 5m pool, 2.4m x 2.4m spa Design: Kenthurst

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 275

TRADITIONAL OR GEOMETRIC CONCRETE POOLS $100,001 & OVER PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY UNIVERSAL MEDIA CO

FREEDOM POOLS NSW

Tel: 1300 763 761 Licence number: 263103c Dimensions: 11m x 5m Design: Mosman

CRYSTAL POOLS AND CHATEAU ARCHITECTS + BUILDERS

Tel: 9875 4555 Licence number: 34505 Dimensions: 11m x 4m Design: Seaforth

CRYSTAL POOLS AND CHATEAU ARCHITECTS + BUILDERS

Tel: 9875 4555 Licence number: 34505 Dimensions: 8.8m x 3m Design: Rodd Point

TRADITIONAL OR GEOMETRIC CONCRETE POOLS $100,001 & OVER PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY UNIVERSAL MEDIA CO

CRYSTAL POOLS PTY LTD

Tel: 9875 4555 Licence number: 34505 Dimensions: 9m x 4.5m Design: Kirkham

THE OTHER SIDE LANDSCAPES PTY LTD

Tel: 9680 7703 Licence number: 240817C Dimensions: 10m x 3m pool, 2.5m x 2.5m spa, 2.3 x 2.5m swimout Design: West Pennant Hills project

SPLISH SPLASH POOLS PTY LTD

Tel: 9651 6963 Licence number: 150957C Dimensions: 11.8m x 3.5m Design: Elanora Heights

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 277

LAP POOLS OPEN PRICE CATEGORY PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY UNIVERSAL MEDIA CO

JUDGES’ COMMENTS: This homeowner requested a light-filled home that allowed for their own private views while still retaining privacy and peace. A one-of-a-kind 15m pool-and-pond combination was created for the architect-designed heritage home and features custom black granite tiles, in-floor cleaning and a tranquil pond with feature fig tree. Located in busy Elizabeth Bay, with close neighbouring properties, this was a complex site due to the potential location of the outdoor space being on a 5m-high cliff. A standout creation for Cronulla Pools.

CRONULLA POOLS

Tel: 1300 373 706 Licence number: 322440C Dimensions: 15m x 3.1m Design: Elizabeth Bay Pool

SENATOR POOLS PTY LTD

Tel: 9894 9222 Licence number: 184063C Dimensions: 15m x 3m Design: Bella Vista

278 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

LAP POOLS OPEN PRICE CATEGORY PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY UNIVERSAL MEDIA CO

SPLISH SPLASH POOLS PTY LTD

Tel: 9651 6963 Licence number: 150957C Dimensions: 25m x 3m/7.62m Design: Kenthurst

CRYSTAL POOLS PTY LTD

Tel: 9875 4555 Licence number: 34505 Dimensions: 7m x 2.2m Design: Dundas

CRONULLA POOLS

SENATOR POOLS PTY LTD

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 279

PLUNGE POOLS OPEN PRICE CATEGORY PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY UNIVERSAL MEDIA CO

JUDGES’ COMMENTS: This exquisite plunge pool was built overlooking the spectacular Tamarama Beach, and the pool’s modern design is a feature of the entire project. Fully automated and tiled in 100mm x 100mm Sukabumi tiles, this build also features a double infinity edge on each side of the pool. This is an amazing plunge pool from a build perspective and a stunning match to the amazing beach view. A fantastic Freedom creation.

FREEDOM POOLS NSW

Tel: 1300 763 761 Licence number: 263103c Dimensions: 6m x 5m Design: Tamarama

SENATOR POOLS PTY LTD

Tel: 9894 9222 Licence number: 184063C Dimensions: 3.9m x 3.6m Design: North Bondi

280 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

POOL RENOVATIONS OPEN PRICE CATEGORY PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY UNIVERSAL MEDIA CO

JUDGES’ COMMENTS: This homeowner wanted to change his dated, freeform pool into a formal tiled pool and add a spa, shower and boundary wall. The renovation required all preparation and planning to be done before the project began and as the pool was just 8m from Sydney Harbour, Freedom Pools needed to plan for the water table before emptying the pool. Due to the poor ground, Freedom Pools didn’t want to rip out the old pool but worked with the existing pool structure. The new 13m-long pool was formed inside the existing pool, the shallow end was extended for more length, and the spa was built on top of the existing pool. Despite terrible ground conditions, Freedom Pools is extremely proud of this result and achieved a real waterfront delight. Well done to Freedom Pools.

FREEDOM POOLS NSW

Tel: 1300 763 761 Licence number: 263103c Dimensions: 13m x 4m Design: Hunters Hill

FREEDOM POOLS NSW

Tel: 1300 763 761 Licence number: 263103c Dimensions: 11m x 4m Design: Kilaben Bay

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 281

POOL RENOVATIONS OPEN PRICE CATEGORY PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY UNIVERSAL MEDIA CO

KMD THE OUTDOOR CONSTRUCTION COMPANY P/L

Tel: 9664 6600 Licence number: 196493C Dimensions: 11m x 3.5m Design: Whale Beach

TECTONIC POOLS PTY LTD

Tel: 0412 506 618 Licence number: 187414C Dimensions: 12m x 4m Design: Lights of St Tropez

THE OTHER SIDE LANDSCAPES PTY LTD

Tel: 9680 7703 Licence number: 240817C Dimensions: 8m x 5m Design: Glenhaven Project

282 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

SPAS/PORTABLE SPAS/HOT TUBS OPEN PRICE CATEGORY PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY UNIVERSAL MEDIA CO

JUDGES’ COMMENTS: With a brief to allow adults to relax and unwind with friends, The Other Side Landscapes designed this 16-jet spa. The 2.3m x 2.3m spa accommodates groups of adults and kids, with an extended depth of 1.4m to allow full immersion in the water. To accommodate both a spa and automatic cover, the spa was designed in close coordination with the pool cover company. The cover needed to float over the spa wall and this wall needed to be angled to allow the cover to bump up over it. A beautiful result from The Other Side Landscapes.

THE OTHER SIDE LANDSCAPES PTY LTD

Tel: 9680 7703 Licence number: 240817C Dimensions: 2.5m x 2.5m spa Design: West Pennant Hills project

SENATOR POOLS PTY LTD

Tel: 9894 9222 Licence number: 184063C Dimensions: 3.5 x 2.32m Design: Scarano

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 283

SPAS/PORTABLE SPAS/HOT TUBS OPEN PRICE CATEGORY PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY UNIVERSAL MEDIA CO

CRYSTAL POOLS PTY LTD

Tel: 9875 4555 Licence number: 34505 Dimensions: 10.8m x 4m Design: Bella Vista spa

THE OTHER SIDE LANDSCAPES PTY LTD CRYSTAL POOLS PTY LTD

SENATOR POOLS PTY LTD

284 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

COMMERCIAL POOLS OPEN PRICE CATEGORY PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY UNIVERSAL MEDIA CO

JUDGES’ COMMENTS: The modern 12m-long pool at Infinity by Crown is fully tiled in glass mosaic tiles, while the wetedge gutter to three sides and infinity edge to the fourth side creates a unique look that ties in with the building’s incredible architecture. LED strip lighting creates a spectacular effect at night. A stunning job from Crystal Pools.

CRYSTAL POOLS PTY LTD

Tel: 9875 4555 Licence number: 34505 Dimensions: 12m x 7m Design: Infinity by Crown pool

CRYSTAL POOLS PTY LTD

Tel: 9875 4555 Licence number: 34505 Dimensions: 25m x 3.4m Design: Waterfall by Crown

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 285

COMMERCIAL POOLS OPEN PRICE CATEGORY PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY UNIVERSAL MEDIA CO

CRYSTAL POOLS PTY LTD

Tel: 9875 4555 Licence number: 34505 Dimensions: 9.5m x 3.5m Design: NSW Rugby League Training Pool

FREEDOM POOLS NSW

Tel: 1300 763 761 Licence number: 263103c Dimensions: 30m x 5m Design: Elysium Apartments

CRYSTAL POOLS PTY LTD

286 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

FREEDOM POOLS NSW

COMMERCIAL SPAS OPEN PRICE CATEGORY PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY UNIVERSAL MEDIA CO

JUDGES’ COMMENTS: The raised spa of Infinity by Crown, designed to complement the winning pool, is fully tiled in glass mosaic tiles and fitted with LED strip lighting for a gorgeous look at night. A wet deck to all sides of the spa saves water and keeps the surrounding areas clean and safe. The modern spa complements the striking building and provides a great outlook onto the pool and views beyond. A real beauty from Crystal Pools.

CRYSTAL POOLS PTY LTD

Tel: 9875 4555 Licence number: 34505 Dimensions: 2.5m x 1.9m Design: Infinity by Crown spa

CRYSTAL POOLS PTY LTD

Tel: 9875 4555 Licence number: 34505 Dimensions: 1.93m x 1.93m Design: St Leonard’s Square spa

MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL 287

HOUSING AWARDS 2020 JUDGING PANEL ROSS FINNIE

Ross’ career in the construction industry has spanned more than four decades. Origins in managing numerous projects of varying architectural type, size and complexity, to now specialising in WH&S, encompassing environmental and quality issues, has ensured his plenary comprehension of this sphere. He’s a member of numerous organisations including MBA NSW, where he is a Gold member and former divisional president of Northern Suburbs Division; representative of the Council of Management, Legal and Contracts and WorkCover NSW Construction Industry Working Party and Standards Australia Construction Advisory Group. He is also a member of Resolution Institute Aust, NSCA and former secretary of ARCA. Ross established his own company, TREW Enterprises, in 1995, specialising in project management, restoration and heritage building work, to now focusing specifically in areas of WH&S compliance and training, expert witness and reporting, and HSEQ.

Awards. Max is a founding member and former director of the Association of Building Sustainability Assessors (ABSA). MICHAEL O’DONNELL

Michael O’Donnell is a licensed builder, accredited building consultant, current vice president of MBA NSW and chairman of the MBA NSW Housing Committee. He is the NSW representative on MBA Australia’s Residential Builders Council and is one of four industry representatives on the NSW Government’s Home Building Compensation Fund Underwriting Committee. Michael joined NSW homebuilder Huxley Homes in 1976 and in 1979 took over Huxley Homes’ new Regional Building Division. Michael left Huxley Homes in 1995 and established his own business, MKO Constructions, which specialises in the design and construction of residential extensions, renovations and first-floor additions. Michael has a Diploma in Building and Construction and Diploma in Workplace Training and Assessment. STEPHEN RAYNER

Paul Girdler is a licensed builder with 50 years of experience in the industry and is a longterm member of industry associations. Initially working as a contractor, he obtained his Building Certificate in 1988, established his own business and continues undertaking projects across inner Sydney, specialising in residential renovations, extensions and restorations. During his career he has been a part-time teacher, designing and teaching Basic Home Maintenance for Petersham TAFE and teaching in the School of Building at Sydney TAFE.

Stephen Rayner has been a member of the Master Builders Association for 41 years. He is a past president of the MBA Northern Suburbs Division and has been treasurer since 2008. Stephen holds a Carpenter and Joiner Trade Certificate along with a Clerk of Works Certificate. He is the director of Stream Constructions Pty Ltd, which specialises in architect-designed projects, domestic and commercial renovations. During his building career, Stephen was a part-time teacher at Hornsby TAFE, teaching the building component of the Real Estate Certificate. He received the MBA Divisional Gold Member Award in 2012.

MAX MOSHER

LEO STANTON

Max Mosher is an energy consultant and has worked in the energy industry for more than 40 years. He has a wealth of knowledge and experience in relation to solar and energy-efficient house design, including energy utilisation in the domestic sector and thermal performance assessments. Max has been a committee member on a Standards Australia Review Committee BD/058 titled “Materials for the Thermal Insulation of Buildings”. He has been on the judging panels for the Building Designers Association Annual Design Awards, the Master Builders Association Excellence in Housing and Construction Awards, the Master Builders Australia National Excellence in Building and Construction Awards, and the Local Government Association Environment

Leo Stanton is a licensed builder and accredited building consultant and a member with the Master Builders Association spanning 20 years. Leo is currently the president of the MBA Parramatta Cumberland division and sits on the Council of Management of the MBA. As an accredited building consultant, Leo has delivered the Pre-Purchase Building and Consultancy course at the MBA since 2007 and is a current member on the Building Consultancy Committee, providing product and services for members of the association and the industry at large. Leo also acts as an expert witness in the National Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) courts of Australia. He is the director of Stanton Homes Pty Ltd, a construction company involved in property subdivisions and residential

PAUL GIRDLER

288 MBA EXCELLENCE IN HOUSING AWARDS ANNUAL

development projects; and runs his own consultancy business, Stanton Building & Consultancy Services. Leo has his Associate Diploma in Building and Construction, Building Surveying Qualifying Certificate and holds his current TAE ticket in Workplace Assessment & Training. ANDREW TOMKINS

As a third-generation builder, Andrew has for the past 25 years been managing director of A.A.Tomkins & Sons, a business founded in the early 1920s by his grandfather. He completed his Surveying Certificate in 1978. He holds a Carpentry and Joinery Trade Certificate, completed his Building Certificate in 1984, and has held his builder’s license since 1985. A.A.Tomkins & Sons has been an MBA member since 1983, has participated and won MBA awards and its MBA apprentice won Apprentice of the Year in 1998. DANIELLE TOWNSEND

Danielle Townsend is a freelance editor at Universal Media Co, a well-known publisher of niche titles for the Australian and international markets. She has worked on numerous home titles including Grand Designs Australia, Pool + Spa, Period Home Living, BuildHome, Poolside, Kit Homes Yearbook, Master Builders Association Excellence in Housing Awards Annual, Renovate, Kitchens and Bathrooms Quarterly and Home Design. Danielle has edited the Master Builders Association Excellence in Housing Awards Annual since 2003. JOHN WORTHINGTON

John Worthington has been a member of the Master Builders Association of NSW since 1976. He graduated from Sydney Technical College in 1971 and holds a Building Certificate and Building Diploma. He also received a Timber Pest Certificate from TAFE in 1989, Master of Dispute Resolution from the University of Technology in 1998, Professional Certificate in Arbitration and Mediation from the University of Adelaide in 1999, Accredited Certifier Program (BSAP) from the University of Technology Sydney in 2004, and was nationally accredited by the Institute of Arbitrators and Mediators 2008. He was chairman of the Building Consultants Council from 2009 for nine years and a member of the Council of Management of the MBA for eight years. John is currently engaged as a mediator, builder and building consultant acting as an expert witness in the Consumer Trader & Tenancy Tribunal and the court system in Australia. John was also the builder on the ABC television program The Home Show for four years from 1990.

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