104 | Clean lines highlight workmanship The cladding is a combination of ABODO weatherboards and sustainable Weathertex sheet cladding made from 97% hardwood and 3% paraffin wax. Leading Homes T T Lindy Andrews BUILDING Leading Homes’ latest creation, a sleek, minimalistic three-bedroom home commanding 360-degree views of the Kerikeri inlet and surrounding bush left builder Atama O’Donnell nowhere to hide. “With such clean lines inside and out, it was all about the workmanship,” Atama says. Built for clients Ross and Alison Gadsby, the home was designed by Auckland’s Box architects. Its ridgeline setting dictated that the house not only capitalised on the views, but also that its exterior was at one with its surroundings. “The floor-to-ceiling windows and doors bring the environment right inside the house,” Atama says. The cladding is a combination of ABODO weatherboards and sustainable Weathertex sheet cladding made from 97% hardwood and 3% paraffin wax. While Atama concedes that the big influx of new builds experienced in the past has slowed dramatically, he remains positive. “We’ve definitely had a quiet patch over the past six-odd months. We’ve taken on quite a few smaller jobs to keep things ticking over. But in talking to industry contacts, it seems things are starting to pick up again. Timber merchants are definitely positive. We weren’t having to chase work in the past. Now it seems that everyone’s picking up their advertising and marketing, trying to get the leads coming through.” He welcomes the Government’s new Residential Development Underwrite (RDU) initiative for developers announced in October by Minister of Building and Construction, Chris Penk. With interest rates still high and building consent rates low, the RDU will support residential construction by enabling credible developers to access finance. The initiative is aimed at supporting developments of 30 homes or more. Developments that deliver the most homes for the least risk and cost to the Crown will be prioritised, in particular developments in the main centres. However, developments in other locations that meet RDU criteria may also be considered. “That’s a good thing because it will stimulate the building industry,” says Atama. “Hopefully, we’ll see it locally. Even if you don’t get the work yourself, it’s going to be good for any region.” While Leading Homes isn’t a large construction company, Atama says that’s an advantage. “Building a home is – and should be – a very personalised experience. Being a smaller crew is a standout for us. I am the guy that you meet for your first chat and the guy on site with the hammer and nails keeping an eye on things. “The best advertisement is always a happy client, and I keep up the rapport even after we hand over the keys. The very personal connection means that if a challenge does arise, it’s easily fixed and doesn’t steamroll into a major issue.” As certified builders, the Northland-based team are self-described “passionate carpenters” and fanatical about craftsmanship. Every home comes with a reassuring HALO 10-year guarantee. Leading Homes also supplies pre-hung doors, which it sources from Auckland’s Superior Doors, as well as hinges and frames, which it then sells on to clients such as ITM, Placemakers and other builders, as well as Platinum Homes Far North and North-east. Proudly supporting LeadingHomes 021 252 9525 | proximapaint@gmail.com 021 446 446 ayden@asquared.co.nz Servicing Kerikeri & Northland A.Squaredelec At A Squared Electrical, we take pride in delivering exceptional service with an unwavering commitment to quality. Our goal is to ensure every job is done right the first time, meeting the highest standards in the industry. Contact us today for all your electrical solutions, and experience the difference of professional expertise
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