92 | Adaptability and quality all the way The company handles diverse work types from minor repairs to major rebuilds. T T Karen Phelps “We take a very personal approach. We focus on the front-end role with the client, collaborating with them and the designer to provide estimates and budgets all the way through.” Trent Building Solutions BUILDING Richard and Aimee Trent started their Christchurch-based building company, Trent Builders, in 2008 with a van, and their dog Monty by Richard’s side. It has now grown to a team of 18, thanks to building based on a simple principle: investing time upfront with clients creates better outcomes and fewer surprises down the track. This philosophy has served Trent Builders well, and continues to drive its success in both renovation projects and new builds. “We take a very personal approach. We focus on the front-end role with the client, collaborating with them and the designer to provide estimates and budgets all the way through. It’s about quoting, communicating, programming,” explains Richard. The collaborative approach begins at the planning stage, where detailed consultation ensures clients understand exactly where their money is being spent and why. This methodology proved invaluable during the post-earthquake period, when the company navigated the complex world of EQC and insurance work. “It was slow and steady growth. We didn’t want to get too big too fast when the earthquakes hit, as we had only been operating for a couple of years and didn’t have the systems in place for quick growth at that time,” says Richard. This measured approach to expansion has enabled the company to maintain its boutique character, while developing expertise across diverse project types. Currently, it has numerous projects underway, including two large insurance repairs for commercial and residential clients, a commercial toilet block and kitchen remodel, two alterations, earthquake repairs to a large architectural house, and a new build. The renovation side of the business particularly showcases the company’s adaptable approach. A recent project that exemplified this was when a homeowner Trent Builders was working with had sourced recycled materials, including internal doors, leadlight windows and external timber joinery from demolition yards around Christchurch. “These pieces are now the focal points of the addition,” explains Richard. The project, extending a 1990s’ barn-style home in Yaldhurst, required innovative solutions throughout. Involving a sophisticated redesign and addition of the space around the home’s main entry, living area, dining and outdoor entertainment space, the project was executed to an extremely high standard, a hallmark of Trent Builders, says Richard. The design presented some technical challenges, particularly with the exposed ceiling rafters that ran from the internal walls to the external living space, above windows requiring specialist insulation to be installed to meet the latest building code requirements. “So a lot of thought went into the ceiling structure and how we would get this to line up with the structural posts and beams to support the structure, and making sure it all looked stunning. It wasn’t a standard type of ceiling,” says Richard. This attention to technical detail is supported by robust project-management systems that keep clients informed throughout the building process. Site managers conduct weekly meetings with homeowners on-site, ensuring transparency and preventing the communication breakdowns that can derail construction projects. The company’s ability to handle diverse work types – from minor repairs to major rebuilds – has proved particularly valuable during the current industry downturn. Its reputation for quality workmanship, combined with accreditation from major insurance companies, has maintained steady workflow when many builders are struggling for projects. Your requirements made to order for Kitchens, Vanities, Wall Units, Wardrobes and more. No job is too small! Enquire now for a free quote Contact Us: 371 7581 | 0212707073 | info@handcraftkitchens.co.nz 340 Wilsons Road, Opawa, Christchurch | handcraftkitchens.co.nz Proudly supporting 021 629 991 admin@riise.co.nz • Commercial & industrial scaffolding • Residential scaffolding • Site fencing • Safety nets • Interior towers and mobile access solutions • Edge protection • Shrink wrap weather proofing
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