2021 Master Builder Awards

Earning top marks and a distinction in his NVQ Level 3 in Carpentry, as well as taking on further training in the fields of Working at Height, Mobile Tower Erection, Asbestos Awareness and First Aid, Ed’s commitment to his career development has always been beyond question. The judges recognised his “"talent, perseverance, and ambition” as well as the "first-class attitude" that makes him an asset to any organisation, as evidenced by his workplace mentor in the following quote:

"Ed consistently demonstrates and applies a sound understanding in theory and underpinning knowledge. [He is] highly motivated, keen to work and learn and is a hugely valued member of our team."

Find out more about Stonewood Builders Ltd, 

Working closely with their client during the design stage, this dual bathroom fitout by Alford Construction is a wonderful example of what a close working relationship can achieve. Making clever use of contrasting textures and surfaces and showcasing some exceptional joinery skills, the team increased the floor area in the bathrooms allowing for the addition of a free-standing bath and a double wall-mounted sink. With high ceilings further enhancing the sense of space, their clients were thrilled with the result, stating:

“We really enjoyed working with Peter and his team. They all focus on delivering high quality work and are thoughtful about how the finished product will look.”

Find out more about Alford Construction.

This project by Stonewood Builders consisted of a complete refurbishment of a Grade II listed commercial property to create a new home for their architectural sister company; Stonewood Design (SWD). Prior to acquiring Listed status, the building – originally constructed using malthouse through the 17^th and 18^th centuries – had endured decades of neglect as a corn store and later as a Chinese takeaway outlet. Stonewood’s extensive work has breathed new life into the property, with the installation of a new flight of stairs linking a mezzanine floor to two others, and new timber carefully combined with the old to preserve a continuous, open aesthetic.

Find out more about Stonewood Builders Ltd.

Pulling together to face the challenges posed by the pandemic, the team at Property Projects (SW) Ltd made effective use of social media and web resources to maintain engagement with their clients when meeting in-person became impossible. They also embraced new technology to aid communications when work resumed. Throughout what the team describe as “the most difficult trading times we have ever known”, they have supported each other by instituting flexible work hours to help with increased childcare demands. They have also maintained a commitment to training apprentices that stretches as far back as 2003, demonstrating a continuous, valuable contribution to the future of the industry.

Find out more about Property Projects (SW) Ltd. 

Stonewood Builders’ construction of 38 two, three, four and five-bedroomed homes saw them create the entire neighbourhood of Somerbrook in a traditional style to match the adjacent village and the neighbouring Brook Farm, established in the 1500s. Whilst the exterior finishes appear rustic, the interiors push the boundaries of modern housebuilding; offering an abundance of natural light and access to a wealth of creature comforts designed to suit the changing needs of families working from home since the advent of the pandemic. As Stonewood’s first housing development, Somerbrook sets the bar high for future projects and underlines Stonewood’s credentials as a top-tier house builder.

Find out more about Stonewood Builders Ltd. 

Part of a project to transform a derelict bungalow into two high quality new-build homes, these dual kitchens showcase PAP Building Services’ attention to detail and outstanding carpentry capabilities. Positioned to provide optimal access to the gardens and make the most of the views of the Bristol channel from within, they both feature high vaulted ceilings, oversized external door heights and frameless balcony balustrading. Adjustable LED lighting illuminates the solid-surface worktops - each of which has been carefully “waterfalled” down the sides of the island fixtures - and handle-less doors make for a flush finish. The clients described the kitchens as “outstanding” and “better than we could ever have imagined.”

Find out more about PAP Building Services Ltd. 

Stonewood Builders’ loving restoration of this historic Grade II Listed medieval hall house saw them first strip back the work of previous renovations to recover the building’s true 12^th century character. The team then proceeded to furnish the historical property with a wealth of 21^st century conveniences including underfloor heating, contemporary plumbing and electrical work and fibre optic broadband; all carefully integrated into the medieval setting without compromising its aesthetic. Their skilful undertaking of this challenging task delighted their clients, who stated:

“We would highly recommend Stonewood, especially for those projects with an extra level of difficulty. We know they can rise to the challenge. We’ve seen it for ourselves.”

Find out more about Stonewood Builders Ltd.

Set in a Tudor building dating back to the 1700s, this extensive home renovation project saw McMurray and Martin operating within the tight constraints of a narrow, one-way street and negotiating the use machinery so as not to disturb the neighbours. Great care was also taken not to damage the Listed buildings nearby, and to retain the iconic bowed bay window once typical to the buildings in the neighbourhood, but now the sole remainder of its kind. Despite facing numerous structural complications, this Master Builder delivered what the judges described as a "stunning transformation”, displaying an “excellent standard of craftsmanship” and “beautiful interiors".

Find out more McMurray and Martin Ltd.

All Build Developments’ work on this property effectively transformed a derelict shack into a two-bedroom holiday home with a paying tenant in under six months. After reconstructing areas of the building too damaged to be repaired, this Master Builder went on to refurbish and restore the remainder of the property, installing a modern, functional bathroom and maximising the value of the 32 square-metre footprint. The judges were impressed by the remarkably efficient turnaround even in the face of material shortages, and by the builders’ generous, professional attitude in dealings with local authorities and the neighbours throughout the project.

Find out more about All Build Developments, trading as All Build Construction Services.

Following the demolition of the existing bungalow, Chris Noakes Construction undertook the creation of this insulated, two-storey timber-framed and strawbale house using almost exclusively locally sourced materials. Acting on their client’s brief to design and build a sustainable, attractive and comfortable new home, the team installed an array of solar panels, natural ventilation channels and made use of breathable fabrics to maximise energy efficiency. Both the build process and the results delighted their client, whose testimonial reads:

“Chris and his team are professional, diligent and great to have around… The house has exceeded my expectations on every level. Thank you so much."

Find out more about Chris Noakes Construction.

Rod Macauley joined Thorn Homes more than 12 years ago, even then bringing with him a wealth of valuable experience and knowledge. The judges noted how well he manages client expectations and consistently delivers the projects of their dreams, whilst providing clear guidance and offering complete support to everyone he works with. Rod was nominated by his employer who says he drives standards higher every day with his professionalism, and previous clients have described him as "professional, friendly and trustworthy"; qualities that embody what it means to be a Master Builder and make him a worthy award winner.

Find out more about Thorn Homes Ltd, which is also an FMB Insurance customer.