122 | Sicato Residential T T Russell fredric Quality builds with a distinctive aesthetic Sicato residential homes typically reflect a modern interpretation of traditional Auckland villa architecture. “There’s a lot more workmanship involved in that style. It’s a traditional look and people really like it.” BUILDING A new housing development across Auckland’s northern growth corridor has created strong demand for high-quality homes, a market Sicato Residential has focused on for more than two decades. The multiple-award-winning company, led by director Simon Bird, has established a reputation for building bespoke homes in greenfield residential developments, where craftsmanship and presentation are central to the business model. Specialising in design-and-build homes and house-and-land packages, Sicato began building in Milldale in 2019, and continues to focus much of its activity in the rapidly expanding Silverdale-Orewa corridor. Established 40 years ago, over time the business has refined its systems, construction processes and design approach, allowing it to maintain a consistent style of homes, while adapting to evolving market expectations. “We’ve refined our systems and the style of homes we build over the years,” says Simon. “We’re well known for our quality. That’s paramount for us.” The company operates with a core team of six staff supported by a network of longstanding subcontractors and suppliers. Many of those tradespeople have worked alongside Sicato for decades. “When you’ve got the same crew working together for years, they know what you want, and they all get on well as a group. Using the same contractors and suppliers over a long time means they look after each other and work together to get the job right.” Access to land within new developments is another key part of the company’s operating model. Sicato works closely with Fulton Hogan Land Developments, the master developer behind Milldale, securing sections within new stages of the subdivision as they are released. “If you’re not getting the land you can’t build. Having that relationship with Fulton Hogan has been paramount for us,” Simon says. Sicato residential homes typically reflect a modern interpretation of traditional Auckland villa architecture. Claymark Garrison timber weatherboards, facings, box corners and detailed exterior finishes create a distinctive aesthetic that requires a higher level of craftsmanship than many contemporary builds. “There’s a lot more workmanship involved in that style. It’s a traditional look and people really like it.” Each property is designed individually, rather than produced as a standardised template, with Sicato working alongside long-term design partner Masterplan to develop house plans suited to specific sites. Interior finishes, colour palettes and landscaping concepts are also individualised for each build to keep the homes visually distinctive. Landscaping forms an integral part of the company’s construction approach, and is included with every home delivered to buyers. Rather than leaving sections unfinished, Sicato completes gardens, planting and lawn establishment as part of the build programme, creating a key point of difference. “We’ve always done landscaping, and it’s something I’ve always enjoyed,” says Simon. “It’s the finishing stage of the project, and really the icing on the cake.” Planting schemes typically include a mix of tropical plants and native species, with several thousand dollars invested in established greenery designed to give the property an immediate sense of maturity. Garden edging, outdoor detailing and carefully prepared lawns are also part of the package. “When people walk through they notice straight away that the landscaping is a couple of levels above what most builders are doing.” The company’s focus on quality detail has drawn excellent feedback from both clients and industry professionals. Building inspection consultant Craig Otway was impressed with the standard of finish during a property assessment in Milldale. “The attention to detail, standard of workmanship, and the overall quality of materials was exemplary,” Craig says. “It’s rare, to say the least, that I find this example of fine homebuilding anywhere.” (09)272 2890 Supply, installation and finishing of solid timber, engineered timber and laminate flooring. Visit our showroom 34B Allens Road, East Tamaki Mon - Fri 9am - 4 30pm email sales@jhf.co.nz
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