Working with Bellevarde Constructions on this residential project was a unique and rewarding experience, noteworthy for their professionalism, resilience, and dedication to bringing a complex architectural vision to life. What started as a simple request to renovate a couple of bathrooms turned into a full rebuild on a challenging site with difficult access, and a house in worse condition than initially thought. Bellevarde’s Adam Howe and his team of skilled tradespeople tackled these hurdles with remarkable skill, turning what could have been daunting obstacles into opportunities for creative problem-solving.
In contrast to other builders, where you’re striving to get them to understand the design, Bellevarde took a different approach. From the outset, they focused on grasping what our client and I were trying to achieve and then making it happen. This shared vision was refreshing and set them apart. Adam’s vast experience was apparent—nothing seemed to faze him, whether it was working under tarps to avoid the rain or managing without a crane for much of the project for logistical reasons. They found ingenious solutions, like bringing materials in by barge or constructing three storeys of concrete without coil ties, a technically demanding task they executed with precision. This level of craftsmanship underlined their commitment to excellence.
Their attention to detail was also striking. John Fielding, in particular, was obsessive about getting things right, even for parts of the build that wouldn’t be seen, like a hidden concrete wall with a slight bow that he insisted on perfecting. That kind of dedication was impressive and not something I’ve seen too often. Adam noted that John’s pursuit of perfection was ‘just how he operates.’ The joinery shop produced exceptional work, and individuals like Bellevarde’s Tom Wetzlar and Campbell Fisher stood out for their diligence. Tom, especially, went far beyond in managing challenges with the neighbours, handling issues with a hands-on approach that kept the project moving forward.
The project’s organic evolution was driven by some rigid limitations—height restrictions, a foreshore building line, and a separate development application for part of the site. The client’s brief grew, with additions like a courtyard that required resubmitting plans, slowing the timeline. Bellevarde adapted seamlessly to this fluid process, which was wonderful from an architect’s point of view. Despite some initial differences over the staircase design, we worked together to find solutions, such as adding stainless steel boxes that turned out very nicely. Features inspired by a trip to Gaudí’s Sagrada Familia, like the coloured glass panels, electrically activated glass, and a cantilevered wine cellar table, came to life through their skilled execution. The boat shed, a personal highlight, is a beautifully crafted structure I’d happily live in myself, elegant in its simplicity and a standout on the harbour.
The final home, a labour of love for the client, is a stunning achievement, with geothermal systems, in-floor heating, and a layout that maximises the site’s outlook. Bellevarde’s ability to work as a true team, embracing challenges as opportunities, made this project an outstanding success. The craftsmanship, from sharp-pointed columns to the intricate boat shed, reflects their passion for quality. As with all builds, it was an occasionally complicated journey, but Bellevarde’s expertise and collaborative spirit delivered a spectacular result. I’d be thrilled to work with them again and highly recommend Bellevarde to anyone seeking a builder who combines consummate skill with a genuine commitment to the vision.
