TAKING pride in a new home build is always part of the job for Mansfield’s Lachie Cronin but when his company took out a 2024 Master Builders Victoria (MBV) northern regional award for the Best Custom Home over $2 million it was recognition by the industry of his dedication to quality.

Cronin Construction Company Pty Ltd won the award for its project “Howqua House” which was designed by West Valentine - Martin West at last month’s awards held in Wodonga.

In its award submission the company said, “The initial brief was to demolish the existing family home, saving only the cherished hand-built stone fireplace with the expectation for the scope of works and finer details to evolve throughout construction.

“The aim was to create a comfortable meeting place for friends and family that would sit well in geographical areas such as Montana or Wyoming but have a very casual, homely feel that is undeniably Australian.

“The communal spaces are large and social but there are plenty of areas where individuals can retreat for privacy and still absorb the magnificent views of the surrounding mountains and Howqua River.”

Lachie believed that what stood out in this build was the attention to detail of the finishes which were discussed during the judges’ inspection.

“A build like this requires us to be completely focused on the finished product and communicating with the client throughout the project to ensure they walk into their dream home upon completion,” said Lachie.

He said this MBV award was his second entry.

“We’ve had a 15 year hiatus from the awards program since winning best custom home over $500 thousand in 2009," said Lachie.

“Since winning the first award in 2009, we have endeavoured to build a reputation for building distinctive homes of an excellent quality.

“In short, we aim to work with clients who have grand plans and visions for their finished home.

“Builds with a degree of difficulty both architecturally and geographically (whether it be from steep sites to remote areas) are always most rewarding for myself and the team.

“We have 13 full-time employees ranging from apprentice carpenters, qualified carpenters, labourers and machine operators plus myself who is largely office bound these days.

But Lachie still finds inspiration in the various builds the company undertakes.

“Watching a project evolve from initial discussions with a client about their vision, through all stages of construction where difficult construction issues can arise requiring technical problem solving to the day where clients are handed the keys," he said.

“I must add that I never really grew out of the ‘sand pit and Tonkas era’ as a kid, hence our growing fleet of earthmoving equipment.

“I love the whole process.”

The last 12 months have been a busy period for Lachie and his team with plenty of work in the Mansfield Shire.

The redevelopment of the Mansfield Kindergarten on Ailsa St which started in July 2023 is almost complete.

“The project was split into two stages allowing classes to continue largely uninterrupted while stage one saw a new classroom and amenities being added and stage two the major renovation of an existing classroom, kitchen and amenities,” Lachie explained.

“The Old Mechanic’s Institute building has been brought back to life as the future administration build for the kinder too.

“Reviving an old building like this is highly rewarding.

“A good sized architectural build in Boorolite including all landscaping is well ahead of schedule, return clients in Goughs Bay have watched their new home reach frame stage over the last few weeks and Mt Buller is shaping up for another busy green season of building."

There is also a project about to gear up for return clients in the Murrindindi Shire.

Did Lachie have any advice for locals looking for a builder?

Communication is key he stressed.

“A client/builder relationship requires clear communication to develop trust and understanding,” he said.

“It’s the best way to ensure everyone is on the same page for expectations to be delivered.

"A ‘one stop shop’ that can deliver civil works, construction to an excellent standard and landscaping upon completion is a logical choice."

The company is also excited about a new business venture it is about to embark on.

“We are starting to work collaboratively with Mansfield based Alpine Log & Timber Homes who craft unique and bold looking homes using handcrafted materials such as Western Red Cedar,” said Lachie.