This year we are celebrating 30 Years of House of the Year! Over the next few months we are going to be shining a light on some of the people who have played a massive part in the competition. Keep an eye out on our channels as our members share some of their best memories as a builder.

SPEARHEAD DEVELOPMENTS - 2019

"I've been building for 21 years. For me, working outdoors amongst the elements with (generally) like-minded people is good fun. I like the challenge of a 35-degree Central Otago scorcher or a minus 10-degree, dark, frosty start to the day. Building or renovating someone’s home also brings massive amounts of satisfaction – leaving them with something that’s pretty unique and will last many lifetimes.

2019 was the first year I entered House of the Year. That year I won eight medals in total.

I’d say it was my biggest career milestone to date. Winning the Southern Region Craftsmanship and Supreme Awards and then going on to win the National Craftsmanship and Supreme Awards were pretty cool and humbling moments in my career.

The personal satisfaction of winning was probably the best thing for me. I became great mates with the owner, Mr Paul Costello, and he was as keen as I was to do well in the competition. Unfortunately, he didn't live long enough to witness our success. I dedicated these awards to his memory. He was one of life's true gentlemen.

The winning project, the Hawk House, was a long-time in the making. Around two years was spent thrashing ideas around with myself, the architect and the owner. The end result was a building of simple beauty and total perfection. The folded, origami-like roofline sits down well into the tussock and schist. The soaring expanse of glass along the front of the house opened the breathtaking view up to those lucky enough. The Canadian Oak panelled ceiling, crafted to perfection, commands attention in every room. This build was more sculpture than house." - Nick Mizzi, Spearhead Developments