Tim Sunderland Reflects on 20 Years of David Reid Homes Wellington & Kāpiti

This year, David Reid Homes Wellington & Kāpiti celebrates two decades of bringing architecturally designed homes to life. Each one is custom-built, design-led, and deeply personal. At the centre of it all is Tim Sunderland, a former brand strategist who turned a background in design into a foundation for building success.

We spoke with Tim about the journey so far, how he got into the business, what has changed, and what is next for one of the most awarded franchises in the David Reid Homes network.

A Graphic Designer Walks Into a Building Site...

Tim didn’t take the usual route into the building industry.

“I come from a design background—not architectural design, but graphic design and advertising,” he says. “It was a pretty big pivot, but in some ways, it felt natural. I’ve always liked creating things and being part of the design process.”

At the time, Tim was working in advertising and brand management when David Reid Homes, then a client, underwent a national rebrand.

“We actually did the rebrand for David Reid Homes. Not long after, I heard the Kāpiti franchise was up for sale. I wanted to stop commuting into town for agency work, so I thought—maybe this is the opportunity.”

He bought the Kāpiti franchise 20 years ago, then expanded into Wellington four years later. In the early years, Tim worked alongside trusted family members to build his understanding of the construction side of the business.

“My dad was an electrician, and my brother-in-law was a builder. We all worked together at the start. I learned a lot from them while I focused more on the business and design process.”

Building With a Different Perspective

That clear division of strengths became a defining quality of the business. While the team has grown significantly since then, the focus remains on creating highly customised homes that are tailored to both the client and the site.

“Most of our clients come to us with a section and an idea. Our job is to turn that into a home that fits their lifestyle, their budget, and their design vision, without compromising on quality.”

Tim believes one of the real strengths of the business lies in guiding clients through what can be a complex process.

“We’re really good at that front-end process. Taking a client’s brief and turning it into a design that fits their needs and their site, without letting the costs spiral. That’s something I’m really proud of.”

Over 80 Awards (and Counting)

Today, David Reid Homes Wellington & Kāpiti is one of the most awarded franchises in the network, with over 80 House of the Year wins, including a National Supreme Award in 2024.

“We use the awards as a bit of a litmus test,” Tim explains. “It’s independent judging, so it helps us understand how we’re tracking compared to the rest of the industry. The feedback is valuable, and the wins are definitely something we’re proud of.”

But for Tim, it’s not just about accolades. The real success lies in delivering a great outcome and a stress-free experience for every client.

“Sometimes clients don’t realise how much complexity is happening behind the scenes. And that’s the goal, really. To make it feel simple and enjoyable, even though it’s a massive project.”

Coastal Builds, Pavilion Homes, and Projects With Personality

While many builders focus on subdivisions, Tim’s team thrives in more complex, one-of-a-kind sites, including coastal properties and sloping sections.

“Most of the sites we build on are far from standard. They’ve got very specific outlooks and challenges. So you’re not just trying to fit a home on the site. You’re designing for the site.”

Around 2010, the team began working more with pavilion-style architecture, influenced by the Central Otago aesthetic. That clean-lined, light-filled approach has become a hallmark of the franchise.

“Those homes are light, open, and incredibly liveable. There’s a clarity to the design that really resonates with people. We still love building them.”

Tim’s team also places strong emphasis on materials that feel natural and authentic.

“We’re drawn to products that have a bit of movement or imperfection. Not everything has to be perfect and painted. We like homes that settle into their surroundings and get better with age.”

A Family Business in Every Sense

Tim and his wife Rebecca have raised three children while running the business. Rebecca joined the company officially about seven years ago, although Tim admits she says it has been longer.

“We bought the business before we had kids, so the whole thing has grown alongside our family. Rebecca’s been a massive part of it.”

Balancing business and family life hasn’t always been easy, but Tim says it has been one of the most rewarding parts of the journey.

“It’s busy, of course. But it’s also been really rewarding. I think being able to build something together has made the whole experience more meaningful.”

What’s Next: Development and Design at Waikanae Beach

Now in their twentieth year, the team is stepping into development work, starting with a high-end master-planned site at Waikanae Beach.

“We purchased the land about three years ago and designed the whole development ourselves—six homes and seven townhouses. We’re building all of them.”

Civil works are well underway, and a luxury new showhome is about to begin construction.

“It’s a stunning location. The showhome is going to be something really special. Very high-end, beautifully designed, and a great example of what we’re capable of.”

Final Reflections

Twenty years in, Tim says the most fulfilling part is helping people bring their dream home to life.

“Most of our clients are building the most expensive thing they’ve ever done. That’s a huge amount of trust to be given. We take it seriously, and we put everything we’ve got into creating something incredible.”

“We don’t just want to hand over a house. We want to hand over a home that feels personal, thoughtful, and genuinely special.”

His advice to others looking to do something similar is simple.

“Reputation is everything. It takes time to build, but it’s what makes people trust you with something this important. If you take that trust seriously, you can build something lasting. Something you’re proud of.”

And after 20 years, hundreds of homes, and a business built on creativity and care, there’s a lot for Tim and the team to be proud of.

Thinking about building your dream home?

Contact Tim Sunderland at David Reid Homes Wellington & Kāpiti to start your design journey.

Phone: 04 298 9282
Email: tim.sunderland@davidreidhomes.co.nz