Inside the 2024 Master Builders National Supreme House of the Year Under 1 Million

This year, a stunning home in Waikanae, built by the talented David Reid Homes Wellington and Kapiti team, has earned the prestigious title of the 2024 Master Builders National Supreme House of the Year under 1 million. With its thoughtful design, seamless integration with nature, and expert craftsmanship, this home has set a new standard.

For those curious about what makes this award-winning home so special, here’s a closer look at the features, design, and story behind this exceptional project.

A Home Rooted in Its Environment

One of the standout aspects of this home is how naturally it blends into its surroundings. Located on a compact site surrounded by mature trees, the design embraces and enhances the natural beauty of Waikanae.

The house is positioned across multiple levels to follow the contours of the land, creating a natural flow between the indoor and outdoor spaces. The client selected dark-toned industrial cladding, reflecting the surrounding environment's textures and tones. This thoughtful choice ensures the home feels timeless, grounded, and at peace with its landscape.

The clients had a clear vision—they wanted their home to feel like it belonged to the site. The team worked closely with them to make this vision a reality, using design choices that celebrate the natural features of the property.

This home proves that great design is not about size, but about how a space is used. With a compact footprint, every detail was planned to maximise functionality and comfort.

The layout features two wings, angled to make the most of sunlight throughout the day. One wing houses the open-plan kitchen, dining, and living spaces, creating a warm and welcoming hub. The other wing is dedicated to the bedrooms, providing a private retreat. The second bedroom doubles as a flexible space, functioning as a TV nook or guest room when needed.

The judges of the 2025 Master Builders National Supreme House of the Year were impressed by how the David Reid Homes team balanced practicality with elegance, calling it a perfect example of how smaller homes can still achieve extraordinary design.

A Personal Touch in Every Detail

What makes this home truly unique is the personal story behind it. The clients brought cherished pieces of furniture and decor, each with its own history and meaning. These items weren’t just added to the home—they were at the heart of its design.

The David Reid Homes Wellington and Kapiti team ensured the house was crafted to accommodate and showcase these treasured pieces, resulting in a space that feels deeply personal and inviting. This level of customisation has given the home a warmth and character that reflects the lives of the people who live there.

Built for the Future

While the design honours the past and the natural environment, this home is firmly rooted in the future. Energy-efficient features were incorporated throughout, from maximising natural light to using materials that improve sustainability.

The large windows bring in an abundance of natural light, reducing the need for artificial lighting and creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere throughout the home. Additionally, the home’s design maximises the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing for better ventilation and a seamless flow to the surrounding garden. These thoughtful choices ensure the home is comfortable, functional, and sustainable for years to come.

This home is a testament to the power of collaboration. The clients had a clear vision for their dream home, and the David Reid Homes Wellington and Kapiti team worked closely with them to bring that vision to life. From the initial design to the finishing touches, every detail was handled with care and precision.

Winning the 2024 Master Builders National Supreme House of the Year Under 1 Million is an incredible honour and a reflection of the dedication and expertise of the David Reid Homes Wellington and Kapiti team. This home showcases the very best of what can be achieved when passion, skill, and vision come together.

This Waikanae home isn’t just a building—it’s a story, a sanctuary, and a masterpiece of design. It shows how thoughtful design can create spaces that are not only beautiful but also deeply meaningful.

If this award-winning home has inspired you, the David Reid Homes Wellington and Kapiti team would love to help you create your own dream space. Whether it’s a compact retreat like this one or something completely different, their team has the expertise and passion to make it happen.

Get in touch with David Reid Homes Wellington and Kapiti today, and let’s build something extraordinary together.