A character villa restored by Nelson builder You Build has won four awards at the 2026 Cook Strait House of the Year Awards, including the region's top renovation prize.
Nelson building company You Build has taken out the Cook Strait Supreme Renovation of the Year title for its transformation of a character villa in Nelson.
The project also won the Plumbing World Bathroom Excellence Award, the Renovation $1 million - $2 million category and a Gold Award at the 2026 Cook Strait House of the Year Awards.
Judges praised the way the renovation balanced heritage restoration with modern construction, retaining and restoring original features while introducing a light-filled contemporary addition designed for modern family living.
"The builder has handled the complexities of working with an ageing structure with impressive control," the judges said.
"New work connects naturally with the original home, and the finish remains consistently strong across both old and new areas.
"Every detail has been thoughtfully executed, allowing the character of the villa to remain central to the finished result."
In awarding the Cook Strait Supreme Renovation of the Year title, judges said the project demonstrated technical skill, patience and close attention to detail.
"The transition between original and new feels natural, supported by refined detailing and a consistently high standard of workmanship," they said.
"This is a highly accomplished renovation that preserves what matters while making the home work beautifully for the future."
The bathrooms were also singled out for recognition, with judges praising the way traditional and contemporary design elements were combined.
"The success lies in the clarity of the execution," the judges said.
"Traditional and modern elements sit comfortably together, supported by immaculate construction and precise detailing throughout."
The renovation category award recognised the way the project respected the villa's heritage while adapting it for modern living.
"Respecting the past while embracing the future, this beautifully executed renovation gives a character villa a new lease on life," the judges said.
Master Builders chief executive Ankit Sharma says the awards celebrate not only quality homes but also the people behind them.
"House of the Year is about more than recognising New Zealand's top homes. They celebrate the teams behind them, the trust between homeowners and builders, and the craftsmanship and innovation that go into delivering standout builds.
"What stands out this year is the confidence and care shown across such a wide range of project types and price points. Our members are not only delivering homes of an incredibly high standard but are also helping shape what quality residential building looks like for New Zealand's future."
The Cook Strait awards also saw Planit Construction win Supreme House of the Year over $1 million for an expansive architectural home in Martinborough.
Richmond company Homes by Orange also took out the GIB Show Home category and a Gold Award for a home in Richmond.
