112 | Leading Ashburton firmwins again T T Rosa Watson “We’re especially proud of the cedar skillion ceiling and the in-situ poured concrete walls. These features not only elevate the home’s aesthetics, but also demonstrate our attention to craftsmanship and detail.” BUILDING Stu Bell Construction Mid Canterbury-based Stu Bell Construction continues to prove its prowess in the architecturally designed build space, picking up a number of awards at this year’s House of the Year Awards. An impressive home built in Methven won the Canterbury region PDL by Schneider Electric Smart Home Award and Canterbury regional Gold Award. Additionally, a home built by the firm at Lake Hood near Ashburton was named regional category winner and also received a regional Gold Award. Stu told Business South the 480sqm Methven home was built along the lines of the clients’ Wanaka home, which they loved, so wanted to replicate the same feel. While the firm has worked on a number of large-scale homes, it was the largest residential build so far, and took 15 months to complete. “We’ve worked on several other substantial builds, each unique in its own way,” says Stu. A technical challenge had been achieving the perfect negative-detail skirting and flush door frames, he says. “These elements required precision to ensure clean, seamless lines throughout.” However, the team thrive on these kinds of challenges, and the end result created the modern look the clients wanted. To achieve a balance between natural beauty and modern style, a mix of schist, plaster, and polished concrete was used. “Every material was chosen for its durability and aesthetic appeal. “The precision work on the negative detail features, including the flush door frames and polished concrete floors, creates a sleek, modern aesthetic. These design elements required technical skill, and our team really delivered on that vision.” Out at Lake Hood near Ashburton, the 285sqm home isn’t as large, but it feels spacious with two outdoor living areas, one of which is semi-enclosed to create even more functional space. The clients were semi-retiring from farming and looking to move off the farm into a home that would suit their new lifestyle, Stu says. “We’re especially proud of the cedar skillion ceiling and the in-situ poured concrete walls. These features not only elevate the home’s aesthetics, but also demonstrate our attention to craftsmanship and detail. “We worked with top-grade materials, including cedar tongue-and-groove ceilings with exposed steel beams and in-situ poured concrete walls.” A main feature of the home is the cedar-lined grand cathedral ceiling, with polished concrete floors that have radiant underfloor heating, and a floating shelving in the scullery, milled from trees on the farm. Outside there is an extensive covered fire area and kwila decking, and recycled 100-yearold Ironbark timber pergola. The home took 12 months to complete. Both homes feature highly technical elements that required a high level of precision and expertise, but Stu says the team consistently worked together to ensure the finished product exceeded expectations. The recognition from the awards had had a significant impact, he says. “Especially on the team’s morale. Every team member is incredibly proud of what The stunning 480sqm Methven home took 15 months to complete. New Zealand’s leading and largest supplier of building materials and hardware. P: 03 696 3839 M: 027 648 8383 E: sarahbennett_design@xtra.co.nz IG: sbdinteriordesign Delighted to be involved with the Interior Design and décor for this Stu Bell house.
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