| 85 T T Alexia Anderson Thriving on a challenge Nick and his team specialise in new builds and bach renovations, overlooking the stunning Marlborough Sounds. Nick Beattie Construction BUILDING When Nick Beattie Construction adds another build to its books, chances are it comes with a view. Nick and his team specialise in new builds and bach renovations, overlooking the stunning Marlborough Sounds – a job he considers both a privilege and a challenge. However, it is the challenge each build brings that Nick and his team thrive on. “It’s not something everyone can do, but it is extremely rewarding when you see the finished product knowing what has been involved to get to completion.” Preparing land in the sounds for building requires a lot of engineering work due to the soil structure and unstable ground, and as a result, the foundation work can be complex, Nick said. Forward planning and preparation is, therefore, paramount. “When building in the sounds there are many factors to consider, [including] planning with the owner, engineer and architect early is key.” Nick also emphasised the importance of fostering close relationships and maintaining communication among everyone involved to ensure a seamless building process. Additionally, with no easy access to a nearby building supplier, accurate material quantities are crucial due to transportation logistics via barge and helicopter. “Many of the sites are boat access only and can be on steep hills, and/or a distance from the beach.” Materials are barged to site out of Picton harbour, before a helicopter is used to lift materials in weighted packs to the desired position. Nick has found the process to be the most cost effective way to build in remote locations. He said, while each build is different, the helicopter and barge make an average of four to six trips per project. While both modes of transport do make life easier for the team at Nick Beattie Construction, they do still endure a substantial amount of physical challenges, including the gradient of the hillsides. And, remote locations can mean long stints away from loved ones. “Our team, at times, stay in the sounds as the travel time does not warrant coming back and forth each day, which means we are away from our families.” Weather extremes, including rain, wind and sea conditions can also create another set of challenges, at times preventing the team from getting to site. As a result, early summer is an ideal time for the team to start a new build, Nick said. While all of those challenges might seem like a logistical nightmare to some, they are all just part and parcel of getting to do a job the team loves in, what is arguably, one of the best offices in the world. Some of the team’s most recent projects are no exception, including a multi-level build at Bythells Bay, which the owners plan to keep in the family for generations. Another recent build the team is proud of is on Waikawa Road - a beautiful new two-storey home on an engineered steel structure close to Picton marina. While each build is unique in its own right, they each have something in common - their own set of challenges that the team has only been too happy to navigate. “Every issue has a solution and is all part of building in one of the most beautiful places in the country,” Nick said. 31 Stuart St, Blenheim 03 578 8793 blenheim@freemanroofing.co.nz New Zealandmade Colorsteel® supplied by your local roofing expert. Proudly supporting Nick Beattie Construction
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