88 | BUILDING Licensed Renovations Ltd Sue Russell Lots to like in the renovation game Licensed Renovations Ltd is currently engaged in the substantial renovation of a beautiful old home in Remuera. As the name suggests, Russell Clark and his team specifically engage in renovation work, something the Managing Director says suits him to a tee. He’s drawn to specialising in this sector given its challenges, the clients he works for and the outcomes he creates. “There’s a particular type of person who is drawn to live in a home that carries some years in its history,” Russell says. “They have a different relationship to their home than I think those who choose to live in a newly built residence do. They want to celebrate its intrinsic value and put back something into it and that is very appealing to me.” . He’s been building all his adult life, on the advice from his mother to take up a trade. Renovations offered an opportunity in those early days to get work and build good working relationships. Following a stint in London working in civil construction he returned to New Zealand and resumed building, again concentrating on renovations. “I like that sort of work; it’s interesting. Renovations are always about the history of the building, how to make changes that celebrate that in addition to increasing value. I have a real passion for old houses. People, for instance, who buy an old villa, have a passion for that time in history.” Working on upgrading, changing the footprint, or refurbishing an old home requires fortitude and commitment. Russell says, they are essentially a moving target once you get underway with them. This, of itself requires a level of engagement with clients and an ability to really communicate the important things well, right from the start. “You must be able to explain what is attainable within their budget and often those early conversations mean an ability to bring into reality what is possible with a fixed budget. That’s essential to do, so that expectations of what can be achieved are realistic and the renovation will be successful.” Important too, is to engage very early on with client and designer/architect around the same table. With 40 years undertaking renovations Russell knows this is critical. “I like it when a client talks to me about their ideas even if these are not yet fully formed. Given my years of experience I can make suggestions and recommendations to see where potential issues or challenges may exist and to explain what is possible from a practical building perspective.” Through the years Licensed Renovations has established key working relationships with preferred architects and designers. Russell also has a strong core of specialist plumbers, electricians, tilers, and other subtrades he calls on. He knows the standard of work they achieve and that’s why he has chosen them. Working with Russell is Peter Chen, Licensed Building Practitioner, Quantity Surveyor and a person who is meticulous with the detail. “Peter has an innate ability to prepare realistic budgets and look closely at all parts of the project from a cost analysis perspective. “Our clients can be assured that we’re giving “Renovations are always about the history of the building, how to make changes that celebrate that in addition to increasing value.” them the very best information to base their decisions around. Peter and I have complementary skills.” The team of 10 builders, includes apprentices. Training them well is something Russell says is critically important for the long-term health of the building sector. “I’ve always had a philosophy of training. It’s neat when you look back and see how many of those you helped gain qualifications and valuable experience and now run their own businesses.” He’s been a BCITO Legend Boss, a role he thoroughly enjoyed. This connected him to apprentices in training and to projects such as the ‘Not Your average Shed’ charity work the organisation engaged with benefiting Habitat for Humanity. “That was a great experience and over the years we’ve got involved in a lot of charity work. That engagement with the community and using our skills to benefit worthy causes is very satisfying.” Licensed Renovations Ltd is currently engaged in the substantial renovation of a beautiful old home in Remuera. “We’re opening it up and creating space by pushing a beautiful ornate ceiling right up. It’s going to be amazing when we’ve completed it. It was also a good example of how our early engagement in the design conversation has brought about a stunning outcome for the owners.” Other projects, such as building an outside library at Papatoetoe East Primary School have engaged the team. “I think when you can do things like that knowing the students will benefit from it, it’s a great feeling.” When not engaged in his professional life Russell is a keen roller-hockey player. He’s currently coach of the NZ Women’s team. “It’s a sport that goes back a long way in his life, having represented New Zealand multiple times in years past.”: Proud supply partner to Licensed Renovations Ltd Proudly supporting Licensed Renovations
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