104 | People skills and a practical approach A recent commercial project was for RV Supplies and involved fitting out a large workshop/showroom in Te Rapa. BUILDING Murray Shaw Builders T T Sue Russell In an industry where not all builders stand the test of time, with nearly five decades in business, Murray Shaw Builders brings a depth of experience and continuity that clients can rely on and trust. The second-generation Waikato building business has cemented a reputation for building quality, building efficiently and building to budget, and since 2022, the business has been led by Todd Shaw, son of founders Murray and Shona Shaw, and his wife Eloise Lonnberg-Shaw. Eloise says when Todd spent time in Europe it provided him with new experiences to draw on. “Todd’s got the right people skills,” Eloise says. “He’s very approachable, easy to talk to, and brings a deep understanding of building methodologies. Clients regularly comment on how much they appreciate his open and friendly approach throughout a build journey. That is one of the reasons we have so many repeat clients, I think.” The bulk of work is confined to Hamilton and surrounding settlements. To describe the couple as proud Hamiltonians is an understatement – their work is firmly rooted in the city and its surrounding communities. “We just love living here. It’s a fabulous city, full of opportunities and we wouldn’t want to be working anywhere else,” says Eloise. A team of two or three is usually working with Todd every day. Eloise says it’s a core strength of the company that Todd is still very much hands-on, working on-site day-to-day – where he’s happiest. “Between us, we handle all the business side, while Todd also works closely with a trusted network of subbies on-site. We choose our subcontractors carefully, and over the years Todd has built strong relationships with our chosen group, which means that everyone understands the standard Murray Shaw Builders’ reputation is built on,” Eloise explains. She says the best outcomes arise when Todd gets involved early in the design process for a new build or substantial renovation. “He’s got a very practical and thorough understanding of what works and what doesn’t, and we’ve found that if he’s in those early conversations, then the project gets off to the best possible start.” Over the years, multiple apprentices have learnt their craft with the support of Todd and his team. Eloise says this is an aspect of operating a building company that gives them both huge satisfaction. “Todd learnt from his father, who taught him great carpentry practices and he’s passed these (and more) on to the next generation coming through. That’s a responsibility we take seriously.” Most work is in the residential space; however, over the years, the team has also completed several commercial projects. One completed last year was for RV Supplies and involved fitting out a large workshop/showroom in Te Rapa, which occupied Todd and the team for nearly nine months. “RV Supplies purchased an existing building, which had an office and large industrial workshop. We refitted the entire building, with the office ultimately taking up about 25% of the total space, creating a modern and fit-forpurpose environment,” Eloise says. “Starting from a fairly blank canvas, we worked alongside the client to assemble the right team, including Jason from Design Culture. Through our experience and industry connections, we’re able to guide clients from those early stages, helping shape the project and see it through to completion. It was a genuine team effort and one we thoroughly enjoyed.” Eloise, who hails from Sweden, says the move back to New Zealand marked a significant change for her. After spending her early career as a lawyer, she transitioned into environmental planning 10 years ago, and now helps run the company, alongside operating her own planning business. “It was a slower transition for me to create a social life in New Zealand, but having lived here now for close to two decades, I am a Hamiltonian through and through, and I think it’s a wonderful place to live, do business and raise a family.” Your Tiling and Whether you are looking to build newor renovate your home, tiles are a great way to add value to your home. Ace1 Tiling are Registered ArdexWaterproof applicators, and are tiling installation and Hamilton and theWaikato region. Proudly supporting MurrayShawBuildersLtd info@ace1tiling.co.nz | 021 0860 1025 | www.ace1tiling.co.nz Proud to support Murray Shaw Builders Ltd Plumbing | Gasfitting | Drainage Laser Plumbing - Hamilton East 412 Grey St Hamilton East www.laserplumbing.co.nz M: 027 247 3836 E: hamilton.east@laserplumbing.co.nz Rob Taylor Painting Ltd Proudly Supporting Murray Shaw Builders Ltd Contact Us
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