2025 Master Builder Awards

Alskea Ltd, Large Renovation Project

Alskea Ltd's renovation of this derelict administration building transformed a 100-year-old Listed property into 29 luxury apartments, contributing to local economic and social development. The team faced challenges sourcing bricks that matched the original structure, and had to contend with damp treatment, protecting areas made using terrazzo, and underpinning. They chose to complete a full restoration over a partial demolition, restoring the roof, brickwork, sandstone, windows, and clock. Their in-house team managed the intricate build process well, adhering to Historic Environment Division (HED) regulations throughout. The client praised Alskea's professionalism and workmanship.

G M Construction, Housebuilder Award

G M Construction has been recognised with the Housebuilder Award for a contemporary countryside home that masterfully balances bold design with rural tradition.

Set within a Northern Irish landscape, the home takes inspiration from the classic courtyard farmyard layout — a series of pitched roof forms grouped around a sheltered, south-west-facing courtyard. The variation in ridge heights and use of white render, dark grey cladding and slate roofing echo the region’s rural vernacular while giving the build a sleek, modern edge.

Designed with intent, the home separates living and sleeping zones across single and 1.5-storey elements. A vaulted kitchen ceiling with visible ribbed rafters adds height and character, reinforcing the barn-style aesthetic.

Lowry Building & Civil Engineering Ltd, Business of the Year

Founded in 1961, Lowry Building & Civil Engineering (LBCE) has over 60 years of industry expertise and has shown exceptional leadership since January 2023. LBCE supports staff development through promotions, chartership, and NEC Project Management training for 48 employees, including local contractors, boosting regional capability. Their outreach spans from primary schools to apprenticeships, helping close the skills gap and inspire future professionals. Notably active in healthcare and leadership, LBCE’s efforts have driven impressive staff retention and over one-third growth in 2024. Their commitment to people, profession, and progress sets a benchmark in construction and civil engineering.

Conor Mageean of Marlfield Joinery and Construction Ltd, Apprentice of the Year

Conor Mageean has demonstrated initiative by independently seeking and securing an apprenticeship in Carpentry. He excelled in his studies, completing Level 2 in Principles of Construction, Information and Communication with distinction and is on track to complete his NVQ Level 3 later this year. Conor has shown exceptional practical skills in both site and workshop joinery, exceeding standards typically seen in apprentices at this stage in their careers. He has taken ownership of a bespoke door project whilst displaying self-belief, problem-solving skills, and attention to detail. He's now a respected and enthusiastic team member, mentoring new apprentices and acting as an advocate for apprenticeships to prospective candidates.

Mastercraft Group Ltd, Small Renovation Project

The project involved a full renovation of a student rental property, including a small rear extension, to prepare it for sale. The objective was to create a more open-plan layout, combining new interior space with the property’s traditional features to enhancement it’s kerb appeal. Challenges included access constraints and balancing a high-quality build approach with a tight budget. The project was self-managed, requiring the team to make design choices that suited the local market’s appetites. The finished result is innovative in its use of space and style, making it stand out against similar properties in the area.

McKelvey Construction Limited, Commercial / Public Sector Project

Blending historic preservation with modern luxury, McKelvey Construction’s award-winning delivery of the Ebrington Hotel is a benchmark in heritage-led regeneration. Five listed buildings – including the iconic clocktower – were meticulously restored, while a striking new four-storey extension introduced high-end amenities from spa to rooftop bar. Overcoming tight deadlines, budget constraints, and structural complexities, the team balanced tradition with innovation, incorporating reclaimed materials and energy-efficient systems. The result? A world-class 4* hotel rooted in local heritage, now celebrated as Northern Ireland Hotel of the Year 2024 and hailed by judges for its ‘exceptional craftsmanship and commercial impact.’

Richard Crawford & Charlie Beattie of McKelvey Construction Limited, Outstanding Builders of the Year

Richard Crawford and Charlie Beattie of The Ebrington Hotel Management Team maintained a strong, collaborative relationship with their client throughout the project, ensuring all KPIs were met. Their proactive approach included forward-buying, value engineering, alternative methods, and reusing materials, delivering significant time and cost savings while keeping the project on budget and schedule. Judges praised their exceptional workmanship and attention to detail in balancing heritage features with four-star hotel standards. Their focus on communication, training, and team support, along with community engagement, stood out as key strengths that contributed to the project’s overall success.

R & K Matthews Building Contractors, Medium Renovation Project

The project involved the extension and renovation of a 1960s bungalow with a retro aesthetic. Key features included a 10m x 2.5m corner picture window, and a raised deck. Challenges included removing walls, installing a large corner lintel, and constructing the deck on a 45-degree slope with backfilled ground, which was achieved using ground screws. The client was kept fully informed throughout the process, and a strong working relationship was established during the project. The renovated home blends new technology with the original building's quality, fulfilling the client's vision of a ‘dream home by the sea’.

Schofield Construction, Kitchen Project

The main objective of this kitchen renovation was to modernise the space, creating a functional and stylish environment. Key highlights include the custom-made birch plywood cabinets, sleek quartz worktops with a breakfast bar, and Schluter Ditra-Heat underfloor heating. Schofield Construction overcame challenges pertaining to the sewers located directly underneath the kitchen, upgrading insulation in the vaulted ceiling, and creating custom window surrounds. The project involved close collaboration with the clients who were architects, with an emphasis on open communication and mutual respect - their testimonial praised the build team's professionalism, attention to detail, and craftsmanship.

Schofield Construction, Bathroom Project

A masterclass in blending heritage charm with modern indulgence, Schofield Construction’s award-winning bathroom renovation has transformed a 100-year-old farmhouse into a serene, high-spec retreat. Working around uneven walls and dated infrastructure, the team delivered a flawlessly finished space featuring a statement freestanding bath, elegant walk-in shower, and warm, ambient lighting. Thoughtful touches like stylish tiling and improved insulation elevate comfort and energy performance. Despite the challenges of retrofitting into a compact, historic footprint, the result is timeless and luxurious. The judges praised its ‘seamless design, precision craftsmanship and outstanding attention to detail.’

Setanta Ltd, Sustainable Building Award

Driven by the client’s deep expertise in renewable energy, this project focused entirely on creating an all-electric, ultra-efficient home. Setanta Ltd was chosen for its strong reputation and proven experience in delivering bespoke, energy-efficient builds. The team expertly brought the client’s vision to life by integrating advanced electric renewable systems with cutting-edge construction techniques. Beyond electrification, the home features sustainable building materials and eco-friendly practices, significantly reducing its overall carbon footprint. This project not only highlights the future of green living but also showcases the power of collaboration between visionary clients and skilled, sustainability-focused builders.