Built in the 1970s, when building codes were different and regulations were fewer, Tracey’s home was renovated four years ago extensively by A. Knight Builders - and owner Adam Knight says it was challenging.

"Everything was crooked. The floors were uneven and the walls weren’t straight. We had to modernise it a lot to bring it up to today’s high standards."

That included putting in large steel portal frames to brace the ceiling both in the existing house and in the extensions.

"Normally you put the steel up and build the house around it, but we had to retro-fit the steel into an existing building," says Adam. "That was interesting."

The previous owners renovated it with feng shui and energy healing in mind, and Tracey says it’s been a real place of healing for her. "The views of water and having green coming in from so many windows makes it feel pretty Zen."

Adam and his team of fellow Waihi Beach locals specialise in coastal property construction.

"If you’re planning on building near the beach you need to talk to us first. You’re building a house in pretty much the most extreme weather environment you’ll find in New Zealand. You have to plan for that." This includes water-proofing that allows for high winds driving rain upwards and using products that won’t deteriorate in salt and sand. "It’s about designing to the elements."

Adam has seen many examples of houses built by those who don’t have his understanding of this specialist design field. "Many houses on the beachfront built five years ago look like they’ve been there for 20."

A. Knight Builders continue to build award winning homes. They picked up another win this year in the Bay of Plenty Central Plateau Registered Master Builders House of the Year, taking out silver in the Carters New Home $1-$2 million category.

Adam is proud of his team of highly experienced and skilled tradesmen. "When combined with our trusted local contractors, no job is too big, too difficult, or too challenging for us. We build our clients homes that will stand the test of time."

The team also tackles commercial, including a number of large developments at the popular Waihi Beach Top 10 Holiday Resort.

Co-owner Ian Smith says Adam and crew are great at suggesting alternatives to produce a better look or a more economic result. "Adam’s attention to detail and the high level of his work makes him our first choice builder."