2025 FMB South Master Builder Awards
2025 Southern Counties winners
Rooks Construction Ltd, Commercial or Public Sector Project
This project saw Rooks Construction Ltd enhance the outdoor learning environment for students with severe and profound multi-learning disabilities at a special needs school. This included creating covered teaching areas, a theatre, individual learning spaces, and a wheelchair-accessible roundabout. Key highlights include the unique, tailored design with a sensory Pavilion, colourful tunnels, and inclusive play equipment, all contributing to a cohesive, engaging aesthetic. The team faced tight deadlines working within a constrained active school, and complex construction methods for unique features, ensuring compliance with the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) 1995. They maintained strong collaboration with the design team and school management, with consistent communication and transparent project management throughout.
Jackson Building Solutions Ltd, Sustainable Building Award
Jackson Building Solutions Ltd delivered a striking, low-energy home that’s as sustainable as it is beautiful. With a 90% reduction in energy use compared to the original house, the build features heat pumps, MVHR, triple glazing, solar panels, and exceptional insulation. A dramatic triple-height atrium floods the home with natural light, while a bespoke bat house (working in tandem with standard ecology measures) ensures local wildlife is protected. Sustainable sourcing and a 94% landfill diversion rate reflect the team’s commitment to environmental care. Built in under a year, this contemporary self-build not only meets but surpasses expectations – setting a high bar for future-facing construction.
Davis Knight Renovations Limited, Bathroom Project
Davis Knight Renovations Limited completed this bespoke bathroom renovation within a uniquely designed building by a renowned local architect. The goal was to personalise the space while honouring the property's original character. Standout features include the use of handmade tiles and specialist products that demanded a high level of craftsmanship. A key element was the application of a specialist lime paint, requiring artistic skill and experimentation to achieve the perfect finish, an uncommon choice on the Isle of Wight. The client praised the team's clear, open communication and was thrilled with the end result, which balanced creativity with technical precision.
Houghton Lewis Group Ltd., Medium Renovation Project
Houghton Lewis Group Ltd. delivered a single-storey rear extension and side infill extension to their client’s detached home. The side extension, featuring vaulted ceilings with roof lights, significantly enhanced brightness and transformed the space into an entertainment area. The rear extension incorporated a roof lantern and bi-folding doors, increasing the usable space and providing seamless garden access. Access was a key challenge for this project, as there was no direct route to the property rear for building work. The team employed creative solutions, including the use of conveyors to efficiently move materials, and the client praised the team for delivering on schedule.
Grey Tree Construction Ltd, Large Renovation Project
This project involved a comprehensive remodelling and extension of a 1980s seafront property into an outstanding bespoke residence. Key highlights include the vaulted first-floor open-plan kitchen / living area with stunning sea views, achieved by stripping the roof and installing a cranked steel frame. The project was a challenging one, involving work on the existing out-of-level structure and building in an unforgiving seafront location during winter, mitigated by an all-weather scaffold. Key relationships were managed effectively with a reactive architect, clear schedules from the interior designer, and consistent video / photo updates for the clients.
LP Harman Building Services Ltd, Housebuilder Award
LP Harman Building Services Ltd delivered two exceptional eco-luxury homes that blend high-end design with cutting-edge sustainability. This was the team’s first foray into SIPs construction – a bold step that resulted in airtight, energy-efficient homes powered by air source heat pumps and solar panels. Striking features like floor-to-ceiling windows and a mezzanine walkway add architectural flair. Despite site constraints and logistical challenges, the project was completed to the highest standards. Judges praised it as ‘a well-managed, forward-thinking build’ with strong client relationships and a willingness to innovate – hallmarks of a true Master Builder.
Keestone Ltd, Small Renovation Project
Keestone Ltd completed a thoughtful renovation tailored to meet a client’s medical needs. The project involved converting a double garage into a wheelchair-accessible wet room and a comfortable, homely bedroom, avoiding a clinical feel. An adjoining study was also remodelled to enhance accessibility. A key objective was to ensure the design blended seamlessly with the existing interior and exterior of the home. While Keestone Ltd had completed many conversions before, this project stood out for its personal impact, adapting the space to suit the client’s new lifestyle. The client described the renovation as life-changing and praised the team's communication and care.
Bagshots Limited, Kitchen Project
Bagshots Limited were tasked with a kitchen renovation that provides a welcoming space for a family to create special memories. A key feature of the kitchen is an island in the centre. The island gives the feel of a farmhouse kitchen table with oak cutlery drawers, and additional drawers providing the children with storage for their artwork activities. A challenge was to hide all electrics, fuse boxes and meters, and the team overcame this by framing and hinging a red throw behind safety glass to ensure it’s not visible. The client praised the team for going above and beyond to deliver the outstanding room.
TED Construction & Developments Limited, Business of the Year
TED Construction & Developments Limited have completed approximately 70 projects over the past two years with excellent client feedback across the board, increasing year-on-year turnover by 44%, and expanding into new office premises. They've recruited three new staff members whilst maintaining high standards of practice and are proud to support three current apprentices. The team have overcome challenges pertaining to transitioning from a home-based operation, addressing a shortage of skilled tradespeople by building local college relationships, and managing fluctuating material prices with a transparent three-month quote validity policy. Clients are prioritised through 24/7 availability and detailed payment schedules, as well as ongoing post project-completion support.
Daniel Edmunds of Your Space Carpentry and Construction Limited, Outstanding Builder of the Year
Daniel Edmunds of Your Space Carpentry and Construction Ltd stands out for his craftsmanship, calm leadership, and unwavering client care. From resolving complex build challenges to delivering sustainable, high-quality homes, he brings dedication and attention to every detail. Daniel supports the next generation through mentoring apprentices and by championing grassroots sports – recently helping fund kit and equipment for Wimborne Football Club’s youth teams. Judges praised his ‘thoughtful, professional, and well-rounded' approach. With a strong reputation among clients and a lasting impact in his community, Daniel exemplifies the integrity, skill, and spirit of a true Master Builder.
Thank you to our sponsors
Drinks reception sponsor
TradePoint is the trade only arm of B&Q, offering a huge range of trusted brands. We supply products and services for every project, all under one roof at convenient locations nationwide. Our range not only covers building, decorating, electrical, plumbing, tools, hardware, landscaping, timber, joinery, safety, workwear and much more, but we also have dedicated kitchens and bathrooms showrooms with takeaway same day ranges.
Whether you're a builder, decorator or kitchen and bathroom fitter, you could be eligible for free TradePoint membership, giving you access to a great range of materials and tools.
For more information, visit www.trade-point.co.uk
Event supporters
City & Guilds is the preferred brand and route for skills. We have been fulfilling our charitable purpose since 1878, by advancing skills for people, organisations, and societies. With 3.5 million learners worldwide, we understand the life-changing link between skills development, social mobility, prosperity, and success. We champion vocational and technical training routes and collaborate with industries and government to campaign for improvements across the global skills landscape.
We work with over 2500 employers to deliver high-quality skills training and credentials, both in person and online, that meet the changing needs of industry and skills challenges. We deliver qualifications and awards to thousands of colleges and training providers across the globe, creating end-to-end solutions and improving learner skills and productivity. City & Guilds courses have contributed £11.2bn to society in the UK alone.
Bournemouth and Poole College educates over 10,000 students including more than 2,000 apprentices, and works with local and national businesses in order to deliver the widest possible choice of quality training. We offer a suite of T Levels and other training courses including free courses and hobby courses across Dorset and the UK, as well as a suite of online courses. We work with businesses and organisations to help make apprentices who will assist businesses' development and grow future leaders.
Our history of working with employers allows us plan individualised training to suit business needs. Bournemouth and Poole College’s specialisms include, (but are not limited to); trades and professions such as Engineering, Construction, Plumbing, Hairdressing, Performance Arts and Catering. For more information on our courses you can view: http://www.thecollege.co.uk.
Northern Building Plastics offers express nationwide delivery from our 5 super depots on a huge range of fascia and soffit, guttering, window trims, cladding, roofing, timber and much more. Order up to 10pm for free next day delivery via our own fleet. For more information visit www.nbp.co.uk
CITB is the industry training board for the construction sector in England, Scotland, and Wales. It’s our job to help the construction industry attract talent and to support skills development, to build a better Britain. CITB’s dedicated advisers support employers every step of the way with SMEs able to have up to 95% of their apprenticeships training costs covered, as well as providing training support for your current workforce.
For more information, visit www.citb.co.uk
2025 Southern Counties judges
David Smith
David Smith
David Smith leads South East Consortium (SECs) partnership, marketing & training arms. SEC serves a network of over 100 Housing Associations connecting them with supply chain and delivery partners. David and his team drives forward a range of initiatives on influencing solutions for the sector’s future and shortening the skills gap. Before his time at SEC, David served just over 10 years in the construction sector in both SME and Tier 1 Contractors. He values innovation and progressive thinking and is proud to support the Master Builder Awards.
Michael Huth
Michael Huth
Michael Huth is a seasoned professional with a diverse background in construction, renewable energy, and sustainable building materials. Originally from Stuttgart, Germany, Michael moved to the UK over three decades ago and has since built a robust career focused on advancing sustainable practices within the construction industry. Since July 2023, Michael has been working as the Manager of the Net Zero Skills Hub at Abingdon & Witney College. In this role, he oversees the development and expansion of green skills training programs aimed at upskilling the workforce in renewable energy, sustainability and domestic retrofit.
Prior to his current position, Michael worked for Retrofit Works, a cooperative specializing in domestic retrofit. He was responsible for selecting and vetting contractors, ensuring they met the necessary standards for delivering high-quality retrofit projects. Michael also contributed to Cosy Homes Oxfordshire, where he played a key role in promoting energy efficiency and sustainable home retrofit within the local community. He worked closely with contractors on upskilling and adopting best practice.
At Natural Building Technologies, Michael was involved in technical sales of sustainable new-build and retrofit fabric systems. His main focus was on wood fibre insulation, a sustainable building material that helps lock up carbon, as well as low fired clay block systems. Their approach includes the use of natural, non-toxic, and breathable materials that improve air quality and moisture control.
Throughout his career, Michael has been passionate about education and training, delivering CPD's and workshops to architects and construction professionals. His commitment to sustainability and renewable energy continues to drive his efforts in creating a skilled and competent workforce ready to meet the challenges of achieving Net Zero Carbon goals by 2050
Shula Granville
Shula Granville
Shula Granville is the South Regional Director in the Membership Experience team at RIBA. In this role she plays a pivotal role in advancing the architectural profession across the South, from the Kent Coast, up to Buckinghamshire and down to Cornwall. Her work involves supporting over 10,000 RIBA Chartered Members, Practices and Student members in the region, promoting professional development, and fostering connections between architects, communities, and stakeholders.
The RIBA South manages initiatives such as the RIBA Awards in the region, professional mentoring programs for architecture students, and events aimed at continuing professional development (CPD). Shula also champions networking and collaboration through local RIBA branches and groups, including initiatives for women in architecture and small practices.