Best in building acknowledged at awards

A STUNNING Caulfield North home that capitalises on multi-use space has secured a top gong for a Victorian builder.

Leone Constructions was recently crowned Master Builders Victoria’s Master Builder of the Year at its annual Excellence in Housing Awards.

Judges lauded the South Melbourne company’s latest project, Gathering House, Caulfield North, for balancing a modernist appeal against the 1950s and 60s architecture of the area.

With light-toned, slim curved brickwork facades and finely detailed metal balcony balustrades, the house sits comfortably in a sloping garden landscape.

It comprises a basement with two floors above, a five-car garage, large open-plan sitting, living, dining and kitchen area, with butler’s kitchen and laundry.

The ground floor includes an additional large study that can transition into a guest bedroom.

All four bedrooms are located on the first floor, including three mirrored kids’ bedrooms each with their own desk, robe and private ensuite. The master suite features a designated walk-in wardrobe and double vanity ensuite with bath.

Master Builders Victoria CEO Michaela Lihou said Gathering House epitomised the high standards of this year’s finalists.

“Leone Constructions’ Gathering House demonstrates a level of professionalism and eye for detail that has become synonymous with the projects our members continue to deliver,” she said.

“It is proof of what can be achieved, despite ongoing challenges across the industry.”

Bendigo-based builders and project were also recognised on the night.

Best Kitchen Under $40,000 went to Insite Design and Construction for a project on Wattle Street in Bendigo.

The company also received a special commendation for Best Renovation/Addition between $500,000 $750,000 for the same project.

Ballarat-based, BCM Homes, was named Regional Builder of the Year for its residential project, Horizon House, Wye River.

MBV president Geoff Purcell said the quality of construction was unparalleled.

“One of the standout features of the build was the complex structural design, which required a high degree of precision and skill to achieve the desired outcome,” he said.

“Every aspect of the build reflects the highest standards of craftsmanship.”

Nathan Roberts, a former building surveyor at the City of Bayside City was named Young Builder of the Year.

Now, the founder of Helico Constructions, Mr Roberts topped a strong field of finalists for his body of work featuring architecturally designed homes, renovations and extensions. The team is currently working on a $3.5 million development on the Mornington Peninsula.

This year’s awards also marked the inaugural launch of the Mario Biasin Leadership scholarships.

The scholarships were established by MBV’s Building and Construction Foundation in memory of the joint founder and CEO of Metricon who advocated for the sector until his death in 2022.

The Mario Biasin Leadership Scholarship was awarded to RMIT Bachelor of Applied Science student, Mohammad Shinwari.

The Mario Biasin Career Advancement Scholarship was awarded to RMIT Bachelor of Applied Science student James Steer.

Both men outlined their aspirations for a career in Victoria’s building and construction industry to take the honours.

They receive $10,000 and $5000 respectively to help progress their careers – with the prize money matched by home builder Metricon.

“In their applications for consideration, both Mr Shinwari and Mr Steer, showcased a determination to overcome challenges to achieve the ultimate goal of not only pursuing a career, but making their mark in an industry they love,” chair of the foundation George Abraham said.

“We trust the scholarship success will set them on a path to making their dreams a reality.”