Stunning build at Okains Bay: J & M Built
“One out of the box” is an apt title for this Master Builders House of the Year silver award-winning bach from J & M Built of Christchurch.
A regional finalist and regional silver award winner in the 2023 Canterbury section of the Master Builders House of the Year Competition, the Okains Bay home is one of 38 entries from around the Canterbury region entered in the prestigious annual awards. 
The winners were announced in mid-August at the Te Pae Convention Centre.
J & M Built’s entry, in the New Home $500,000 – $750,000 category (pictured on these pages) was described as “sublime simplicity”.
An uncomplicated 144sqm rectangular form has been imbued with light, natural flow and exemplary outdoor living areas, thanks to the meticulous craftsmanship of the builders, the judges said.
Craftsmanship examples feature throughout bach in a picturesque setting
at Okains Bay in Banks Peninsula.
Reclaimed timber from telephone poles and wharf beams has been used in feature walls, and there are old light fittings, signs, retro hanging scales and a heavenly trio of cathedral glass art pieces. Fun meets finesse.
In the fully tiled bathroom and main-bedroom ensuite upcycled stainless-steel toilet pans have been installed, and old cabinets have a new lease on life as vanities.
“As impressive as these are, this architectural house with a pitched roof and clad in reclaimed vertical shiplap and steel, is about much more,” the judges found.
Smart design and attention to detail, for instance. You’ll find three spacious bedrooms, a loft, an open-plan living, dining and kitchen zone with fireplace,
and separate media space with pivot doors.
Wide doors open light-filled spaces to decking that splays out from both sides of the bach. 
An eye-catching and practical aspect of the is that it features more square metres of deck than house, pressing home the point that whether relaxing or entertaining, the owners can enjoy this special part of the world indoors and out.
A Christchurch-based building company with more than 10 years specialising in architectural new builds and renovations, J & M Built comprises partners Jamie Ellis and Matt Radburnd. “Our team has extensive experience and knowledge in the industry, allowing us to provide our clients with top-notch services,” says Jamie.
Those services include following a rigorous process for every project the company takes on. 
“From initial consultation to final inspection, our team works closely with our clients to ensure that their vision is realised, and that the project is completed on time and within budget,” he adds.
“We offer an end-to-end client experience that includes seamless communication, budgeting, staffing, on-site organisation, and quality workmanship every time,” says Matt.
“We work with architects and designers to produce beautiful, functional homes.
“Call us today and bring our project management skills and extensive construction experience to your next project.”
