The Construction Source Australia

Welcome to the latest issue of Construction Source Australia, the magazine highlighting the best in building and building products across the country. For the cover of this edition, we’re fortunate to tell the story of Ruby Homes, a Sydney-based builder with the motto of “We build homes, not houses.” We talked to founder and owner Bishwas Bhattarai about that motto and what it means for clients. We also discussed their passion for sustainability and energy efficiency, as well as their history of industry awards. Also featured in this edition is Haus of Creations. They are a Brisbane-based design agency that recently delivered a $15 million-plus affordable housing project for the BHC, which earned them the UDIA Award for Design Excellence in 2021. They have also worked other integrated living projects for tier-one clients in Australia. For more on their diverse experience and their unique abilities, we caught up with Sofie Pringle, the firm’s founder and director. Also featured in this issue is Acure Asset Management, which has emerged as a key player in Australia’s boutique property investment, development, and funds management sector. Since forming in 2012, Acure has bought and sold $623 million in property, comprising 23 carefully selected assets. Each acquisition has been made with a keen eye on stability and long-term growth potential, with the goal of delivering an attractive and sustainable income yield to investors. Rob Morrison, a business development executive with the firm, talked to us about that strategy and highlighted some of the exciting properties in their portfolio. For all those stories – and so many more like them, about industry giants and up-and-comers alike – just keep reading. All the best, The Editorial Team We will keep adding business units that enhance our offering and separate us from our competition. “ ” Editor From The Dear Reader,

FEBRUARY 2025

The Construction Source Australia With a readership exceeding 136,000 senior executives, The Construction Source Australia takes immense pride in providing an enticing platform to amplify your message to the most pivotal audience – your valued customers. Whether your aim is to promote an exciting new condo development, attract crucial financial investments for upcoming projects, or establish a commanding brand presence, we’re here to assist you every step of the way. To explore opportunities for featuring your company or showcasing your latest project in The Construction Source Australia, please reach out to our Group Publisher. Jermaine Poulsen e:info@theconstructionsource.com.au The Construction Source Australia Suite 11.01, Level 11, 175 Castlereagh Street, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia info@theconstructionsource.com.au ABN: 42 976 059 923 Executive Publisher Jermaine Poulsen COO Alexandra Box Editor in Chief Zach Janes Director of Operations Jacqueline Van Belois Business Development Managers Douglas Thomson Chad Hamilton Production Manager Brennan Midghall Digital Strategist Pranim Thapa Editor Joanne Fralick Administration Manager Belyn Quijance-Dorero

FEBRUARY 2025 Industry INNOVATIONS Product of the Month The Kights Scanner RUBY HOMES Ruby Homes builds homes, not just houses ACURE ASSET MANAGEMENT Strategic Growth: Acure Asset Management’s Vision for Sustainable Success HAUS OF CREATIONS Haus of Creations offers bespoke solutions HERITAGE WINDOW SPECIALISTS The many facets of Heritage Window Specialists MILLAIR CLIMATE CONTROL Dedicated to excellence KELLER AUSTRALIA Integrity, collaboration and excellence TAYLORD CONSTRUCTIONS Taylor’d Pools and Construction builds quality over the long haul IN THIS ISSUE FEBRUARY 2025 KELLER AUSTRALIA MILLAIR CLIMATE CONTROL

FEBRUARY 2025 Aluminum expected to accelerate worldwide adoption of electric and self-driving vehicles Material takes on an ever-widening role in tomorrow’s vehicles For more than a decade, concerns about fuel efficiency have been encouraging OEMS to replace steel with aluminum on vehicle bodies, doors, trunks, hoods, bumpers, crash boxes, brakes, cables and wheels. With the advent of electric and autonomous vehicles, OEMs worldwide are discovering new uses for aluminum. The need for battery casings and heat exchangers in electric vehicles, combined with autonomous vehicles’ demands for high visibility and structural integrity, is expected to exponentially increase the use of sheet aluminum in tomorrow’s cars, trucks and buses. Supporting the transition to battery-powered vehicles Four major design challenges confront OEMs in their transition to electric vehicles. Extending vehicle range Improving battery and passenger safety Increasing passenger comfort Optimizing cooling systems for lithium-ion batteries The substitution of sheet aluminum for steel helps resolve OEM concerns. Industry INNOVATIONS

The Construction Source Australia The lighter the vehicle, the longer its range. According to Ducker Worldwide, aluminum is expected to contribute more than half of the anticipated vehicle mass reduction demanded by electric vehicles (EVs) to extend range. Ducker reports that in North America alone, aluminum content in EVs will increase to nearly 565 pounds (256 kilgrams) per vehicle by 2028. The larger the vehicle, the heavier the battery and casing required to optimize the EV’s range. It is the larger EVs, i.e., sedans, SUVs, taxis, trucks and buses, that will realize the greatest benefits from a steel-to-aluminum conversion. In the U.S., a vehicle’s gross weight determines which class of commercial driver’s license (CDL) will be required. Without lightweighting, some EVs could demand a higher-class license or additional endorsements due to the added weight of the battery. In older European cities like Brussels or London, some bridges and tunnels only allow vehicles up to 3.5 tons in weight, a target that is very difficult to meet for larger EVs without lightweighting. For heavier material transport EVs such as trucks, weight reduction enables an increased payload, providing a significant monetary benefit. Generally, the larger the vehicle, the higher the payback. Particularly relevant for larger human transport EVs such as buses and taxis, the weight reduction made possible through aluminum provides the added benefit of reduced CO2 emissions and improved air quality, of value not only to vehicle operators, but to the communities they serve. The thermal and anti-corrosion properties of aluminum make it ideal for battery frames. Sea-water resistant, highly formable, highly surfaced aluminum alloys provide the strength necessary to pass side-impact crashworthiness testing, protecting passengers and the battery should impact occur. Casing floor plates made out of aluminum are not only strong, but also capable of resisting corrosion related to weather exposure. These characteristics enable aluminum battery casings to resist weather-related deterioration and impact from road debris, minimizing the risk of related fires and further securing passenger safety. Optimizing battery and human safety Extending range Dispersing heat The batteries used in EVs produce energy while charging and decharging, requiring the use of heat exchangers to dissipate heat. But the types of heat exchangers used in vehicle air conditioning systems are inadequate to meet this new challenge. Aluminum clad brazing (which connects multiple layers of aluminum together to disperse heat) requires heating in a controlled atmosphere (e.g., a vacuum) to achieve optimum joining. Aluminum heat exchangers designed specifically to meet the challenges presented by electric vehicles can use as many as five types of aluminum sandwiched together, with the layers providing gradient properties to optimize cooling. These specialized processes and materials address OEM concerns, ensuring adequate dissipation of the heat generated by battery-powered vehicles. An experienced aluminum processing partner can help OEMs specify the right process and alloys to meet specific vehicle temperature thresholds, ideally working side by side with OEM engineers early in the design process to maximize the performance of electric vehicles. IT IS THE LARGER EVS, I.E, SEDANS, SUVS, TAXIS, TRUCKS AND BUSES, THAT WILL REALIZE THE GREATEST BENEFITS FROM A STEEL -TO-ALUMINUM CONVERSION .

FEBRUARY 2025 The luxury sedan market will likely be the first to transition to self-driving electric vehicles. Passenger comfort and safety, and an expansive view of the surrounding environment, are expected to be top priorities for this market. The hefty B pillars used in conventional vehicles to meet structural requirements for crashworthiness are undesirable in a self-driving scenario. To enable large windows and an unobstructed view without sacrificing passenger safety, lightweight aluminum will be the strong material of choice. Supporting the eventual transition to autonomous vehicles In addition to the design challenges presented by EVs, society’s demand for sustainable solutions will likely continue to be a driver in the transition to aluminum-lightweighted vehicles. A Forschungsgesellschaft Kraftfahrwesen mbH Aachen (fka) study, using a Volkswagen Golf as its reference vehicle, determined that an electric aluminum-based vehicle could meet the same safety standards as its steelbased equivalent, while emitting 1.5 tons less greenhouse gases over its lifecycle, taking into consideration production, a total driving distance of more than 93,000 miles (150,000 kilometers) and eventual recycling. Ongoing environmental concerns Conclusion Aluminum alloys are ideally suited to the design challenges presented by electric and autonomous vehicles. By aligning with aluminum partners deeply experienced in developing processes and alloys to meet demanding performance requirements, transportation vehicle OEMs are accelerating the pace of EV and self-driving vehicle adoption throughout North America. .

The Construction Source Australia Dedicated service to achieve best results using only quality materials and finishes while also creating solutions to maximise space and storage. Comprehensive consultations and advice, we treat each home as an extension of our own home and take pride in what we do. With over 30 years experience in the joinery industry, we help create dedicated spaces and keeping up with the latest kitchen designs and styles. We thrive on customer satisfaction and take the time to understand each and every individual needs. we also do shop fit outs, medical centres, school fit outs for class rooms, staff rooms etc. Artisanal Kitchen & Joinery PTY LTD Unit 19/264 Hoxton Park Road Prestons NSW 2170 Australia Phone : +61 2 8358 4688 Mobile : +61 484 745 124 Email : admin@artisanalkitchens.com.au Website : www.artisanalkitchens.com.au Call 1300 278 548 for assistance.

FEBRUARY 2025 Business World Australia

The Construction Source Australia Business Worl d Australia

Ruby Homes builds homes, not just houses

Phone: Phone - 1300 569 977 Email: Info@metalroofingaustralia.com Website: www.metalroofingaustralia.com.au Want a reliable roofing contractor that delivers on time for your construction? MRA is one of the largest roofing companies established since 2013 and service all areas of NSW. We provide roofing and guttering services for - New Builds - Re- Roof - Multi Residentials - Commercial Constructions FEBRUARY 2025

We offer 25 years product warranty & 7 years service warranty. “I highly recommend Metal Roofing Australia for anyone looking for quality roofing services. They recently installed a roof for a new home project, and I was impressed by their professionalism and craftsmanship. It’s clear that their team knows what they’re doing, and the results speak for themselves. The quality of the materials they use is top-notch, and the roof looks amazing! If you’re looking for a roofing company that takes pride in their work and delivers reliable, durable results, Metal Roofing Australia is definitely the way to go!” - Achol, Sydney THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

FEBRUARY 2025

The sense of “home above house” is key to Ruby Homes’ success, says founder Bishwas Bhattarai. The company’s motto is: “We build homes, not houses.” The luxury custom home builder has been doing this in Metro Sydney since 2020. “We don’t have extra add-ins. We do everything before issuing the tender,” he says. “We are very much a custom home designer and we specialize in houses that suit the requirements and needs of the family who will live there.” “Our target market is the owner who will live in the home, and wants a family home,” says Bishwas. “We focus on houses that are built for the family. Ruby Homes also does knock-down rebuilds and duplexes. They are very selective on what they build. “Each house has to be custom above all.” “A lot of houses built here are done with the project home mindset,” says Bishwas. Cost is number one with a certain segment of the construction industry, while practicality is not important. The contractor looks at the aspect of building the house for the market, not to be lived in. “When we build a house into a home, we consider a lot: how many children, if you want to work from home, how you’re going to use the house,” he says. He gives as an example someone working from home. “You find most of the time home offices are located in a corner or under the stairs or something like that. That defies our purpose of building a house. The house is yours to enjoy. If someone is spending eight-to-nine hours per day in this room, we want it to have an ideal location, and bright sunlight, so that person can work comfortably in that room for eight hours.” THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

Another example Bishwas provides is for a family with two small children. “We want to ensure there’s ample space for the kids to stay or study while the parents can watch them from the kitchen. The same perspective changes with say a 13-year-old. They want their own space where they can study and have their personal effects all in one room with enough space.” These are the smaller things Ruby Homes takes into consideration as opposed to building a onesize-fits-all house. Ruby Homes has a full-time staff of 17, with an additional seven people in the administration staff. This combined team coordinates the construction of 50-to-60 houses per year in the $500,000 to $2 million range. Their timeline from start to finish is typically seven-to-nine months The Ruby Homes team is happy to go the extra mile for their clients, Bishwas says. Their clients choose them because of their flexibility and the custom options they deliver. “Every house we build, we have to take a special interest in the clients, their vision, and what’s going to deliver for them in the future. We constantly reinforce to our staff daily that the client comes first and we do whatever we can to fit into the client’s requirements. The client comes to us because we are flexible and think outside of the box.” Ruby Homes’ subcontractors are also a big part of their team. For example, Metal Roofing Australia is a valued partner. They are proud to be the top residential metal roofing contractor in Sydney, NSW since 2013. With their 75-strong team, they provide exceptional quality roof and gutter work for real estate developers, residential builders, insurance companies, and local councils. FEBRUARY 2025

THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

The journey from idea to move-in can be complex. Ruby Homes works hard to make the planning as smooth as possible. “Half the time clients don’t know what they want so it’s our job to ensure we give them the house they need,” says Bishwas. “We spend a month understanding their daily lives and how the family will live in the house. How they do everyday work, how they do chores. Somebody may have a lifestyle where they go out. Some may have socials where they regularly invite 30-40 people over. In that case, we need to give ample space downstairs with seamless integration between the kitchen and living space so they can fit this in.” At the same time there may be very private people, says Bishwas, so for them, a priority may be a lounge room next to the swimming pool. Ruby Homes takes the time to understand their clients and their priorities so they can help them make the best decisions. As smooth as possible FEBRUARY 2025

“We do a lot of houses with different scopes and attributes. Our job is to ensure that at the planning stage, we spend hours and hours guiding our clients through this uncharted territory and help them open up to what their needs are.” As an example, Bishwas cites a project they completed on Chadwick Drive in Gables. The client there wanted a four-bedroom two-story house. “Once we dug more around it, we found they had three kids. The wife enjoyed cooking at home, husband spent a lot of time at work. He needed personal space after work. We built this house with a swimming pool at the back where the husband has a gym room overlooking the pool, and we created a massive kitchen for the wife. A completely different project was completed on Pluto Ave. in Leppington. This person was big on lifestyle. He was a sports figure and did a lot of entertaining. The house has an indoor pool with a bar next to the pool – the status symbol meant a lot to him,” says Bishwas. “Since we are a custom builder, that house is only for that client. We don’t replicate that house again,” he says. “We take up a lot of our time and clients’ time in making it special. We don’t revisit that house with someone else. Every house we build on a street or in a suburb is unique in and of itself.” Sustainability is also a concern for Ruby Homes. They use the BASIX (Building Sustainability Index), system created by the government of New South THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

Wales, Australia in 2004. Its goal is to make sure homes are energy efficient. This means they use less energy and water, which is good for the environment. They want new homes to use 40% less water and make 40% fewer greenhouse gases compared to homes built before BASIX started in 2004. Ruby Homes’ concern with getting it right for their clients has resulted in several awards over the years. Most recently, in August 2024 they received the Australian Trades Small Business Champion Award in the ‘Builder: Large’ category. The biggest challenge for Ruby Homes moving into the future is their growth, says Bishwas. “Our goal for the next three years is to hit the 100 homes a year mark while ensuring the quality of the build is at the forefront. We want to be the best custom builder in Sydney. We don’t build display homes. Every one of our homes we build is a display home for whoever walks into it.” FEBRUARY 2025

For more information on Ruby Homes, visit their website at https://rubyhomes.com.au/ THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

Strategic Growth: Acure Asset Management’s Vision for Sustainable Success

Client focused property solutions Providing a comprehensive range of technical advisory services to property owners, occupiers and managers across Australia, New Zealand and South East Asia. Building Consultancy Services: Technical Due Diligence – Purchaser or Vendor Make Good Reports and Schedules of Condition Life Cycle Audits and Capex Forecasts Defect Investigation Expert Witness Reporting MPA are proud to provide technical due diligence support to Acure Asset Management mpa.property Sydney Level 11, 50 Clarence St. Sydney NSW 2000 02 7906 8385 Gerry Filgate gfilgate@mpa.property 0421 836 335 Perth Level 3, 12-14 Thelma St. West Perth WA 6005 08 6158 9944 David Mansfield dmansfield@mpa.property 0407 246 320 Brisbane Level 12, 133 Mary St. Brisbane QLD 4000 07 3523 3594 Bianca Ryall bryall@mpa.property 0439 080 927 MPA9426 Full Page Advert v2.indd 1 5/2/2025 13:50 FEBRUARY 2025

Since its founding in 2012 by Angelo Del Borrello, Acure Asset Management has emerged as a key player in Australia’s boutique property investment, development, and funds management sector. The firm’s focus is on identifying and originating quality property assets that offer stable income and the potential for growth, all while providing maximum returns for its investors. Acure holds an Australian Financial Services Licence (AFSL 411056), ensuring the highest standards of financial integrity and regulatory compliance. The management team’s deep expertise in the property market has helped Acure establish a successful track record in uncovering opportunities and enhancing asset value through strategic management and active repositioning. Acure’s commitment to delivering high-yield returns is evident in its disciplined, data-driven approach to investment. The firm has built a portfolio valued at $410 million, comprising 24 carefully selected assets. Each acquisition is made with a keen eye on stability and long-term growth potential, and Acure’s minimum distribution income yield target of 8.75% reflects its dedication to providing investors with sustainable, attractive returns. Acure’s investment strategy is focused on identifying assets that can benefit from market opportunities. “Our goal is to consistently find assets that offer competitive, risk-adjusted returns,” says Rob Morrison, Business Development Executive at Acure. “This might involve acquiring undervalued properties that are below replacement cost, or assets that can be improved through active management, such as renegotiating leases, enhancing tenant mixes, or upgrading services.” THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

Acure’s approach goes beyond simply acquiring and holding properties. The company’s success is rooted in its ability to unlock the potential of each asset through active management. This includes a hands-on approach to repositioning properties, pursuing refurbishment or rezoning opportunities, and working to improve the value and income outlook of its assets. “It’s not just about acquiring properties; it’s about creating value through proactive management and improving the income outlook for each asset,” Rob explains. “This is how we create long-term growth and returns for our investors.” One example of Acure’s successful strategy is its acquisition of a mixed-use roadhouse property in Western Australia. Initially, this asset was a simple roadside roadhouse, but Acure recognised its potential and transformed it into a facility that now includes industrial land and a 150-room accommodation unit. This accommodation is currently leased to Rio Tinto, which uses the property to support its mining projects in the region. The property was acquired for $2.6 million, and within 12 months, Acure successfully secured industrial tenants for the adjacent land, generating an additional $1.3 million in rent revenue. This is a prime example of Acure’s ability to spot undervalued properties and reposition them to unlock significant value. “What started as a basic roadhouse is now a thriving mixed-use property,” Rob notes. “It shows how we can take something FEBRUARY 2025

THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

overlooked and turn it into a high-performing asset.” The firm’s focus on providing stable, long-term returns is reflected in its overall strategy, which prioritises acquiring assets with strong income potential. The minimum distribution income yield target of 8.75% ensures that Acure is able to consistently deliver attractive returns to investors while also focusing on capital growth. “Our investment philosophy is all about finding assets that offer a strong income base, while also having the potential for long-term capital appreciation,” Rob explains. “This balance allows us to deliver the kind of sustainable, high-yield returns that our investors expect.” Acure’s commitment to sustainable returns is evident in its diversified portfolio. The company’s assets span several key sectors, including commercial real estate, hospitality, and industrial properties. In each case, Acure focuses on identifying properties that can provide stable income streams while offering opportunities for growth through strategic management and valueadding initiatives. In the industrial sector, Acure has demonstrated a strong strategic foresight. “What’s really been performing well is industrial property,” says Rob. “We’ve held several industrial properties through syndicates and, in the last couple of years, have sold them due to strong demand and rising prices.” This success highlights Acure’s ability to capitalise on the growing demand for industrial assets, positioning the company for continued success FEBRUARY 2025

in the sector. Acure’s strategy in this space allows it to secure long-term tenants and significantly increase rental income, further solidifying its presence in the high-demand industrial market. Acure’s strength lies not only in its ability to acquire undervalued assets but also in its ability to build long-term relationships with key stakeholders in the property market. The company’s extensive network of brokers, investors, and tenants has played a crucial role in helping Acure identify offmarket deals and gain early access to the best investment opportunities. “Our relationships are one of our greatest assets,” Rob says. “We are able to source the best deals because of the strong relationships we’ve built over time. These connections help us stay ahead of market trends and position ourselves for future success.” Acure’s portfolio includes a variety of investment vehicles aimed at providing strong returns for investors. Among these offerings is the Acure Hospitality Trust No.1, a core-plus hospitality investment that currently delivers a distribution yield of 8.5% per annum, paid quarterly, with a target internal rate of return (IRR) of 14.0% per annum. This trust focuses on generating consistent returns through its carefully managed hospitality assets. The Currie Street Trust, an office-focused coreplus investment, offers a target IRR in the range of 12% to 18% per annum, reflecting Acure’s ability to identify and manage high-potential office properties in key markets. Another significant offering is the Varsity One THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

Trust, also focused on office assets. This trust provides monthly distributions, with a firstyear distribution yield of 8.25% per annum and an average five-year distribution yield of 8.75% per annum. The target total return (IRR) for this investment is 12% per annum, underlining Acure’s focus on delivering solid returns through careful management and strategic investments in office properties. These offerings represent just a few of Acure’s strategies in action, with each investment vehicle designed to provide a balance of income and capital growth for investors, supported by Acure’s proven track record of asset management and value creation. As Acure looks to the future, the company remains focused on continued growth and strategic expansion. With a portfolio currently valued at $410 million, Acure is well-positioned to capitalise on new opportunities in the property market. Rob concludes, “We are committed to growing our portfolio and maintaining our focus on providing strong, stable returns for our investors. Our team is always looking ahead, keeping an eye on market trends, and continuing to seek out new opportunities that align with our core investment philosophy.” Acure’s disciplined, proactive approach to property investment and management has established it as a leader in the Australian market. The company’s focus on identifying undervalued assets, adding value through active management, and delivering strong, sustainable returns makes it a standout in the boutique property sector. With a clear vision for the future and a commitment to building longterm relationships with key partners, Acure Asset Management is well-positioned for continued success in the years to come. FEBRUARY 2025

To learn more about Acure Asset Management and its investment strategies, and to contact Rob and other members of their expert team, visit https://acuream.com.au. THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

HOC HAUS OF CREATIONS Haus of Creations offers bespoke solutions

FEBRUARY 2025

Haus of Creations is a design agency committed to creating memorable spaces and experiences, and they believe those experiences should be both practical and unique to the client. Sofie Pringle, the firm’s founder and director, says she works closely with each client to achieve a design solution that meets their needs, and she uses every design tool at their disposal – including colour palettes, materials, patterns, textures, décor, and furnishings. “I am quite practical,” says the Brisbane-based designer. “I don’t have a design ego where I’m stuck on one vision. I’m collaborative, open, and flexible. I work with the client to execute a brief evaluation of their style and visions and implement those rather than being driven to implement a specific design ethos or style.” Sofie believes in her ability to work with clients to achieve what they want, within their budget range and their constraints for the project. “I prioritize versatility across the design process,” she says. “The design of environments fascinates me. Having been exposed to vastly different methods, methodologies, and disciplines I have developed and honed a diverse toolkit.” Sofie has been in the industry since 2013. Prior to Haus of Creations, she worked at various practices on large-scale projects, from social and community-based projects to luxury homes. “It got to the point where I wanted to do more of my own residential-focused private projects. I’ve been operating this way for a few years now,” she says. Most of Sofie’s projects are residential builds in southeast Queensland, from new build houses to renovations and extensions. “We do anything THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

from small under $100,000 jobs to new two or three-story builds worth over $1 million,” she says. Her projects come from a combination of referrals from past clients and people she knows in the wider industry from networking. “I’m a team player at heart. I bring people together to pursue a shared vision to achieve what was previously thought impossible.” She says that there are easier ways to get results, but you have to be willing to approach a project from a different angle or perspective. “We understand the importance of a comprehensive project brief and site-specific research,” she says. “We work closely with many reputable service providers, contractors, and consultants who can provide advice and recommendations where needed.” Sofie values her relationships with these secondary providers on her projects. “Depending on the value of the project, there are some contractors I work with thatI’ve had relationships with for five years or more who I’ve personally delivered renovation projects with in the past so that helps a lot. We also have relationships with providers who are suited to new builds as well. In terms of other contractors, or consultants, we are open minded as to who is the right fit for the project as it’s about managing the relationships and being able to determine what’s the right fit when the client wants a particular contractor.” Before Haus of Creations, Sofie was an accomplished designer at other firms. She was the project lead on an affordable housing retirement living project in Brisbane, which was an award recipient. FEBRUARY 2025

THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

That project was a $15 million-plus affordable housing project Arbor Sherwood for the client BHC. That project won the UDIA Award for Design Excellence in 2021. Sofie has also worked across other residential projects for tier-one clients in Australia. A year ago, Haus of Creations headed a new build in Tallai on the Gold Coast. Sofie describes the Hamptons-style Queenslander-esque project as “A complex project in a semi-hinterland” The fourbedroom, three-bathroom home with garage is an example of how to build on complex sites and achieve a client’s vision on a site that isn’t straightforward, she says. “It’s a beautiful family home with lovely views out to the valley and over the Gold Coast,” says Sofie. The site itself was on a very steep incline with bushfire requirements. Another challenging project was ‘Villas on TwentyFifth,’ a contemporary collection of four luxury townhouse residences, located within 200 meters of the Gold Coast beaches in Palm Beach. These three-story villas are in a highly sought-after location on the Gold Coast, and Sofie ended up taking on the role of project lead. “It was quite a challenging project,” says Sofie. “The site was only 560 square meters. We were able to fit four fairly sizeable villas with double garages on that site. Each has four bedrooms, big kitchens, and living and dining areas, flowing to an outdoor deck. It’s an aesthetically amazing, beautiful project.” FEBRUARY 2025

THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

Each townhouse in this project benefits from cross ventilation, with the internal living space oriented toward the eastern beach-facing boundary. Generous internal ceiling heights coupled with volumetric raked ceilings in the third-story bedrooms have enhanced the feeling of space. The classic design and detailing of the townhouses, both inside and out, reflect their coastal setting and epitomize a relaxed beachside lifestyle. Moving forward, Sofie hopes to continue exploring the residential sector and doing different types of jobs. “I’d like to get more focus on the interior spaces and on different types of residential, which will be my main focus moving into the future,” she says. She also has an interest in Air B&B and short term accommodation as well since she has done interiors for that type of structure. Whatever the project type, Sofie says the most important thing will remain the client and their individual wants and needs. She says finding innovative ways to respond to the specific needs of their client will always be what Haus of Creations does best. “We create design solutions that are best suited for our client’s unique project requirements – if it’s your forever home, a renovation or extension, new build, townhouses, apartments, or a funky new bar or café,” she concludes. “We work with the client to create a solution that is befitting of and consistent with their project vision, goals, and budget. We never lose sight of the client.” FEBRUARY 2025

For more on Haus of Creations and how they bring visions to life, and to contact Sofie and her team, visit their website at http://www.hausofcreations.world/ THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

The many facets of Heritage Window Specialists

Australian Stained Glass Supplies Unit 9, 13-15 Wollongong Road, Arncliffe NSW 2205 Phone: 02 9550 6666 | Email: info@agsonline.com | Website: www.agsonline.com • Stained Glass for Joinery • Saddles Restaurant • Reproduction of Traditional glass Patterns • Safety Glass in Colour • A bespoke product made to the designers specs • Heritage style in colour • We can also laminate your own glass if it is suitable for our process Australian Stained Glass Supplies Australian Stained Glass Supplies is proud of the long and successful partnership with Heritage Windows and we congratulate them on their achievement. ASGS has been supplying glass to the Industry for decades and is the largest stockist of Stained Glass in NSW and our range includes traditionally made glass suitable for joinery and restoration. We also supply Laminated Safety glass in both Textures and Colours which meets the requirements of Safety Glazing Standard AS 1288. Why use clear laminated glass when we can give you coloured and textured laminated safety glass. The laminated glass has been tested to conform to AS/NZ 2208 human impact. We offer a quality bespoke product made here in Sydney. We recently teamed up with BIB’N BRACE 0418 823 023 to supply the glass for Saddles restaurant at Mt White where Bruce from BIB’N BRACE use recycled wood to fit out this iconic venue. Let us supply traditionally made reproduction glass or more modern textures for your joinery project. Call 9550 6666 to discuss your needs. Visit https://www.asgsonline.com/lamination Laminated Safety Glass with Colour and Texture. FEBRUARY 2025

Heritage Window Specialists is an industry leader in the restoration and repair of timber windows and doors. With over 15 years of experience, the company has built a reputation for delivering high-quality craftsmanship on projects of all sizes, from suburban homes to some of Sydney’s largest hospitals. Their dedication to quality and customer service has been the foundation of their continued success. Founder and owner Josh Dick started the company as a solo tradesman working on local projects in Ingleburn. Over time, he entrusted project management to Scot Austin, allowing him to pursue his other business ventures, including the successful expansion of an excavation company. Since its humble beginnings, Heritage Window Specialists has grown rapidly, now operating with three teams and a total of 11 staff members. The company offers a comprehensive range of services, including draft proofing, soundproofing, window restoration, window replacement, door restoration, and window installations. According to Manager Emma Hili, the company’s expertise sets it apart in a niche industry where quality craftsmanship is paramount: “It’s a highly specialised field,” says Emma. “Matching historic window styles and profiles requires skill and precision that a general handyman simply can’t provide. It’s intricate, detailed work, but it’s incredibly rewarding.” At Heritage Window Specialists, every project is approached with the goal of enhancing efficiency and functionality while preserving the unique character of each timber window and door. “Every window tells a story,” Emma explains. “Understanding its operating mechanisms is crucial to proper restoration. It’s not something just anyone can do.” THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

FEBRUARY 2025

Heritage Window Specialists has cultivated a strong reputation, with much of its business coming through word of mouth. “We take pride in preserving and restoring historic windows to their former glory,” says Emma. “Our clients trust us because we’re honest and transparent. Scot, in particular, is known for his integrity, he provides practical solutions instead of pushing unnecessary replacements.” Unlike mass-production companies, Heritage Window Specialists handcrafts every window to order, ensuring each one meets the highest standards. The team operates efficiently, with a dedicated factory team handling manufacturing from glazing to joinery while installation teams bring expert craftsmanship to every site. The company’s rapid growth has been driven by its skilled team and a leadership that values trust and innovation. “Josh has full confidence in us to run the company efficiently,” says Emma. “He empowers the team, and that trust reflects in our achievements and strong morale.” This strong internal culture directly impacts the client experience. “From the initial quote to project completion, our clients consistently provide positive feedback,” Emma notes. “Our Google reviews speak for themselves.” Heritage Window Specialists also maintains excellent relationships with suppliers, working with trusted partners like Norton Glass, Chippendale Restorations, ITI NSW and Australian Stained Glass to provide clients with premium materials and finishes. In recognition of their outstanding work, Heritage Window Specialists took home four prestigious THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

FEBRUARY 2025

THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

awards in 2024 alone: • Australian Small Business Champion Award – Business Growth 2024 • Australian Small Business Trades Awards – Carpentry 2024 • Local Business Awards – Outstanding Trades and Services 2024 • Local Business of the Year 2024 (Overall Winner) – Business of the Year 2024 • Local Business Awards – Currently in the running to be finalists 2025 “Winning these awards is a testament to our team’s dedication and hard work,” Emma says. “Every person in this company is a crucial part of our success. As a thank-you, the entire team attended the awards ceremony because none of this would be possible without them.” As part of its ongoing growth strategy, Heritage Window Specialists is continuously expanding its team. In 2024, they hired a junior office assistant to streamline operations and plan to bring in an additional joiner to increase production capacity. “We’re also adding another apprentice to our onsite team to take on more projects and reduce lead times,” Emma says. With a vision of continuous improvement, Heritage Window Specialists remains committed to innovation and teamwork. “Growth is neverending,” Emma affirms. “We value our team’s input, and we listen. Without our dedicated employees and loyal clients, none of this would be possible. Josh and Scot lead with trust and confidence, making it easy to do our best work.” FEBRUARY 2025

For more information, connect with the expert team at Heritage Window Specialists, visit their website at www.heritagespecialists.com.au THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

Dedicated to excellence

FEBRUARY 2025

Millair Climate Control & Electrical is among Queensland’s leading providers of air conditioning and electrical services. Since forming over a decade ago, they have grown and evolved considerably, and have developed unparalleled expertise in handling large-scale commercial construction projects. These days, they offer an extensive range of services from design and installation to maintenance and repair of HVAC systems. According to Jon Millard, founder and director of the company, what sets them apart in that niche is their “dedication to excellence.” “We’re committed to delivering quality, efficiency, and reliability in every project,” Jon says. “Our team of expert technicians is equipped to handle any challenge, ensuring the project is completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards.” “Our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction makes us the ideal partner for clients and their commercial endeavours,” he adds. “Our clients choose Millair because they want a seamless service experience.” Jon first founded Millair in Townsville in 2013. In the years since, the company has expanded at a rapid rate in terms of both team members and capabilities. In recent years, Vic Riella and Elly Fraser have joined Jon as directors, and the company has added additional departments, including an electrical and construction department. Even more recently, in August 2024, they expanded their operations into the Northern Territory with the acquisition of a company called Johnny Cool Darwin. That acquisition has allowed Millair to extend their expertise in HVAC and electrical services to the Darwin region, ensuring that both residents and businesses in the Northern THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

Territory experience the same exceptional service, reliability, and innovation that their company is known for. In both Queensland and the NT, Millair mainly services the commercial sector, including restaurants and retail shops, with some residential work for new builds. Millair does the initial installations and follows up with service maintenance, repairs, and contract maintenance. In Queensland, the company looks after a lot of smaller sporting clubs, with two of their biggest clients being the Cowboys Leagues Club in Townsville and the Brothers Leagues Club in Townsville. According to Jon, his professional relationships with both those organizations have lasted many years. He credits that loyalty partly to how seriously he takes customer service: “We try to get as much feedback as we can to make sure we’re keeping up with market trends,” he says. “We want to know we’re keeping our customers happy, so we follow up with a lot of customer feedback. We take that quite seriously.” Millair’s relationships with team members also tend to be longstanding, Jon adds. He cites as an example their construction manager, who has been with them for 20 years. In order to earn that kind of loyalty, Jon tries to keep business as informal as possible while still maintaining professional service. “We try to pride ourselves on not having a corporate culture,” he says. “That’s one of the drawing cards for people working for Millair. We don’t have any of that corporate jargon that comes with it all. Our core values at this stage are solid workmanship, always being on time, and straight talk with clear honest communication with our customers and staff.” FEBRUARY 2025

THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

“We respect everyone. One of our values is ensuring our teamwork makes our dream work. We encourage staff to own their work,” says Jon. “We give everyone responsibility and transparency in the company so that they feel part of it. When people feel they are part of the team, you are more transparent with them, they take more responsibility and ownership over what they’re doing and work a little bit harder.” Millair’s main supplier, Mitsubishi Electric, is considered a major part of their team. “We’ve had a relationship with them since the company started,” says Jon. “We find their products are very reliable and we get great customer service with them to back us up. Any warranty stuff is processed quickly. They give us good pricing and customer service so we stick with them and push their products.” “Although we do sell and service other brands, Mitsubishi is our preferred supplier because of the quality of the products and the support we get from them,” says Jon. Millair uses the latest technology on their installations. “Embracing new technology and reinventing our processes in the spirit of continuous improvement enables Millair Climate Control to be the ultimate contractor,” says Jon. “Using field technology like mobile stations, tablets, and mobile apps, in concert with the latest in Cloud tools, allows us to perform work more safely, efficiently, and with greater accuracy than ever before.” Their dedication to quality has been recognized by their peers. Millair was the winner of the Australian Trades Small Business Awards For FEBRUARY 2025

Air Conditioning in 2024, beating out seven competitors. “This prestigious award recognizes small businesses that demonstrate outstanding innovation, service, and dedication to their craft. Being named a winner in this highly competitive category is a testament to the hard work and passion of our entire team,” says Jon. One of Millair’s biggest recent projects was the Telstra Building in Townsville. “We supplied a whole new chilled water system in their building,” says Jon. “This is an example of the innovations that are coming out. People are jumping on board and wanting it now.” The Telstra Building is a $32 million project in Townsville’s Central Business District. It is a hybrid workplace, whereby their Townsville workforce will no longer have to work from home. Telstra’s Townsville workforce will no longer have to work from home after moving into this $32 million state-of-the-art office and warehouse facility in the Central Business District. Honeycombes Development engaged CES Construction to manage and build the 3-story, 2486-square-meter telecommunications office building and 750-square-meter warehouse, completed in January 2025. As a key subcontractor for the Townsville Telstra Redevelopment project, Millair’s team played a crucial role in bringing this vision to life, says Jon. This partnership underscored Millair’s dedication and capability to contribute to significant construction and redevelopment projects. “We Phone : 07 47755222 Email : sales@capaircon.com.au Over 40 years assisting North Queensland mechanical services trade with their ventilation and air conditioning equipment. Fantech fans, Idealair Group air distribution products, Camfil filtration. Proud to be part of the Millair supply chain. Open 10am-2am 7 Days 14 Golf Links Drive, Kirwan | Phone: (07) 4773 8000 Website: www.brotherstsv.com.au Dining, Entertainment, Functions, Keno, Sports Bar, TAB, Bingo. Home of the Townsville & Districts Mendi Blackhawks and Brothers Rugby League Townsville. Membership only $2! Visit our award-winning Club today. THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

FEBRUARY 2025

THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

FEBRUARY 2025 worked alongside CES NQ, the lead contractor, with our focus remaining on delivering excellence and innovation within the scheduled timeline.” This was a new type of project for Millair, says Jon. “This was a massive project. Unlike traditional air conditioning systems that use refrigerant to cool the air, the Telstra Building uses a chilled water system with the water through cooling coils. It makes it easier for the air handlers to circulate through the cooling coils and keep the room cool and dehumidified.” This innovation is also more environmentally conscious because there are no refrigerants or gasses, says Jon. With the continuing success of the company, Jon sees Millair continuing to grow in the future. “I definitely see us purchasing another company and expanding the branch and the team,” he concludes. “We want to focus on innovation, customer service, and sustainable solutions moving forward and keeping on top of the market.”

THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA For more on Millair Climate Control & Electrical, their products and services, their past projects, and their latest news, visit their website at https://www.millairclimatecontrol.com.au/

Integrity, collaboration and excellence

FEBRUARY 2025

Founded in the 1860s in Germany, Keller has evolved from a small regional operation into the world’s largest geotechnical contractor, with a presence in over 40 countries. The company’s journey has been defined by a relentless commitment to integrity, collaboration and excellence, positioning Keller as a global leader in delivering complex geotechnical solutions across various sectors. Throughout its history, Keller has remained dedicated to providing techniques that solve geotechnical challenges across the entire construction spectrum. In Australia, Keller has firmly established itself as a leader in the piling and ground improvement contracting industry, particularly in Victoria. Known for its ability to tackle complex geotechnical challenges, Keller is widely regarded for delivering high-quality results across a diverse range of infrastructure, industrial, and commercial projects. This success is built upon a strong foundation of expertise, a commitment to quality, and the flexibility to employ a wide range of techniques to meet the unique demands of each project. Over the years, Keller has earned a reputation for addressing some of the most intricate geotechnical engineering requirements in the industry. In speaking with Allan Bowers, Construction Manager at Keller Australia, and Mohammed ‘Mo’ Aziz, Senior Project Manager, it is clear that the team’s leadership and expertise have significantly contributed to the company’s ability to tackle complex projects and deliver outstanding results. Their insights highlight the importance of teamwork and the collective effort that drives Keller’s success. One of Keller’s most notable recent projects in Australia involved creating over 15 kilometers of new elevated traffic lanes, designed to significantly improve access to Melbourne’s Ports. The project presented unique challenges, including its THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE AUSTRALIA

Made with FlippingBook

RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy OTYzNTg=