110 | Swiss precision on display Elements come together quickly on site to close the building in and weather-proof it. T T Karen Phelps ‘Changing of the guard’ for family company Steinemann Construction & Design T T Sue Russell “The transition to the next generation is not just about continuing the family business; it’s about evolving and adapting to the changing needs of the construction industry.” BUILDING Caldow Builders Swiss-born Andi Steinemann first arrived on these shores back in 1992, and his current building company, Steinemann Construction & Design, based in Carterton, has been in existence since 2015. Bringing the knowledge and experience he gained in Switzerland, Andi honed his career by initially working for companies in the pre-fabrication space, using light timber construction built to a very high thermal standard. It was those formative years using these building methodologies that inspired Andi to offer clients here the same benefits these systems afford. “When I started here I wanted to build high-performing homes because I understand the great benefits they bring for people living in them. These are long-term energy-efficient, warm, well-ventilated, engaging spaces for people to call home,” says Andi. Inside his 600sqm workshop all structural members for a home are assembled, insulated and closed in to be weather-proof, then transported to their site for assembly. The benefits, building this way, Andi says, are multiple. For over three decades, Foxton-based Caldow Builders has been shaping the landscape of the Manawatu and Horowhenua regions. Now, as the company looks to the future, a new chapter is unfolding with the next generation stepping into key roles. Company owner Rodney Caldow has been at the helm of Caldow Builders since its inception. With a career spanning more than 35 years in the construction industry, Rodney has built more than just structures; he has built a legacy in the community. Rodney has dedicated 50 years to the local fire brigade, serving as fire chief for the past 35 years with the Foxton Beach Volunteer Fire Brigade. His extensive community involvement, including roles as president of the Manawatu Coastguard and his participation in search and rescue operations, has earned him a Queen’s Service Medal (QSM). This deep-rooted connection to the community has been a driving force behind Caldow Builders’ success and reputation, he says. Now, as the company evolves, Rodney is overseeing what he calls “a changing of the guard” with two of his children stepping into significant roles within the business. Daughter Mikaela has taken on the crucial responsibilities of administration and compliance. Rodney says that her role is pivotal in maintaining the company’s high standards and ensuring that Caldow Builders continues to meet and exceed industry regulations. Meanwhile, son Mitchell has assumed the role of scheduling and programming, while also offering hands-on expertise driving trucks, cranes and hydrovacs – much like his father. Caldow Builders has always been known for its versatility and ability to tackle challenging jobs. From commercial and civil contracts to specialised lifting operations, the company has built a reputation for excellence across various sectors. The company’s portfolio is impressive and diverse. It has been instrumental in constructing major buildings in Foxton over the past two decades, including landmarks such as Te Waiora Medical Centre and Te Awahou Nieuwe Stroom museum and library. Its reach extends beyond Foxton, with the majority of projects in the Manawatu/Horowhenua region. These range from the Mitre 10 in Levin to communication equipment installations from Te Kuiti across to Gisborne and south through to Wellington. One of the current significant projects showcases the company’s capabilities in the agricultural sector. Caldow Builders is working on a state-ofthe-art chicken shed complex for 120,000 birds in Bulls, a 10,800sqm project it has been involved with for a couple of years. The design-and-build project for eg. Free Range Eggs demonstrates the company’s ability to manage large-scale, complex projects from conception to completion. “We can put together a team of contractors for any job from design to completion,” explains Rodney. “This flexibility and network of trusted partners allow Caldow Builders to take on a wide range of projects, adapting to the needs of each client.” He says that Caldow Builders continues to invest in state-of-the-art equipment, including four hiabs (one recently purchased for around $1 million), three hydrovac trucks, diggers, tractors, tip trucks, and transporters. This constant upgrading of fleet ensures that Caldow Builders remains at the forefront of the industry, capable of tackling any challenge that comes its way. The company’s commitment to excellence is further evidenced by its achievement of SiteWise Gold certification for 2024/2025, underscoring its dedication to health and safety practices. As Rodney and his wife Brenda watch their children take on more responsibilities within the company they built, they do so with the pride of knowing that the values of hard work, community involvement, and quality craftsmanship that have been the hallmark of Caldow Builders for over three decades will continue to thrive under the next generation’s stewardship. “The transition to the next generation is not just about continuing the family business; it’s about evolving and adapting to the changing needs of the construction industry.” Rodney says. “With Mikaela and Mitchell bringing their skills and fresh perspectives to the company, Caldow Builders is well-positioned to continue its legacy of excellence and community service.” “We’re able to work from our computers to absolutely design and construct each integral structure of the home. “Design of each component is achieved through use of sophisticated computer systems and construction is in a controlled environment, where we are not impacted by the weather. This makes for an extremely efficient building system with certainties around time-frames and delivery.” When plans have been received from an architect, Andi essentially disects the plans, processes each element through his computer system to create extact models of each component structure which are then builts, a bit like putting a giant puzzle piece together on site, in order, to perfectly fit together. Floors, walls, roof elements come together quickly on site to close the building in and weather-proof it within two or three days. “There’s no chance that any structural timber is exposed to the elements at any stage of construction.” “Our frames are heavier than what you might see on standard builds. We build using LVL timber which is stronger and all our homes are built to thermal high-performance standards or above.” (06) 353 0217 o ce@emerge-arch.co.nz www.emerge-arch.co.nz Specialising in all things electrical, WiredWairarapa prides itself on a reputation of excellence. Our customers are at the forefront of our minds always. We want to find the solution that suits you. Get in touch with AJ to discuss your electrical needs today! PROUDLY SUPPORTING STEINEMANN CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN 021 662 190 www.wiredwairarapa.co.nz wiredwairarapa@gmail.com 5Merchants proudly supply Steinemann Construction with SIGA membranes and tapes for weather and air tightness, ensuring their build projects meet stringent performance standards. 5merchants.co.nz 0800 434 287 |
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