Whether it’s transforming residential spaces or erecting commercial marvels, we’re dedicated to delivering unparalleled quality and expertise in every project. Visit our website to discover how we can elevate your next construction endeavor.
Craftsmanship Showcase: From Residential Renovations to Commercial Builds
At Retro Construction, our motto is “Traditional Experience/Modern Style.” It is more than just a tagline; it is the philosophy that drives every project we undertake. Whether we are restoring a 100-year-old villa or breaking ground on a commercial development, the core principles remain the same: rigorous planning, skilled craftsmanship, and an unwavering commitment to quality.
In an industry where many contractors chase only the “big paying contracts,” we pride ourselves on versatility. From the smallest maintenance repair to complex structural additions, we believe that every job deserves the same level of professional attention.
Residential Mastery: The Art of the Renovation
Residential renovations are personal. We are often working within a family’s living space, sometimes even while they are navigating life with a newborn baby. This requires a delicate balance of speed, cleanliness, and respect.
Restoring the Old to New One of our standout examples of craftsmanship involved a reclad project where specific building materials were no longer available. unable to find a supplier stocking the necessary weatherboards, we took matters into our own hands. We used wood turners and routers to create the drip edge and achieve the desired profile cut over a 6-metre length. It was a meticulous process, but it ensured we didn’t let the client down.
Modernising the “Poky” Layouts Many Auckland homes, particularly 1960s brick houses, suffer from “poky little rooms and passages.” As our client Nicola North discovered, our team excels at tearing down internal walls to create open internal flow and modern outdoor connections.
However, not every renovation needs to be a structural overhaul. Sometimes, the “wow factor” is simply creating a tidy, well-sealed home. We recently utilized Resene’s black-white semi-gloss range to tidy up an older home, proving that sealing trims and updating lighting can make a world of difference without a massive budget. Furthermore, for those struggling to visualize these changes—especially in bathrooms—we now use immediate 3D visualization apps to render potential designs on-site within seconds.
Commercial Excellence: Building for Business
Transitioning from residential to commercial work requires a shift in scale, but not in standards. A building site operates like a temporary outdoor factory, created solely to construct a one-off product.
The Commercial Lifecycle Our commercial division manages the complete process, from ground-breaking foundations to the final finishing touches. In New Zealand, commercial builds involve navigating strict building codes and complex site regulations. Our team handles:
- Site Preparation: managing geotechnical testing and drainage solutions for flood-prone areas.
- Structural Construction: Executing framing, roofing, and insulation that withstands New Zealand’s variable weather.
- Utilities Management: Overseeing wiring and water systems to ensure low-maintenance functionality for the business owner.
Maintenance: The Unsung Hero We understand that commercial properties require ongoing care. We work with property managers like Nesuto Newhaven, responsible for 176 apartments, to handle the “small jobs” that keep a complex running—from fixing burst water pipes to cutting concrete steps. As we say: “Nothing is too big or small. We perfect them all!”.
The Engine Room: Project Management and Preliminaries
What bridges the gap between a small residential repair and a large commercial build? Professional Project Management.
We emphasize the importance of “Preliminaries”—the essential operating costs required to legally and safely complete a project. These aren’t just “extras”; they fund the safety systems, waste management, and site supervision that keep a project compliant with the Building Act 2004 and HSWA 2015.
By managing these costs effectively, we prevent budget shocks. We also protect our clients by advising on the correct insurance structures. For renovations, we generally recommend that the property owner arranges Contract Works Insurance to ensure a single insurer covers both the existing structure and the new works, preventing disputes.
Why Choose Retro Construction?
With over 30 years of industry experience, we offer a level of expertise that allows us to future-proof designs. Our practical designers have an eye for detail, finding extra floor space in small bathrooms where others see none.
We also ensure you get the best price through Competitive Bidding. We request multiple quotes for sub-contractors and expensive ticket items. This doesn’t just secure a better price; it improves quality by allowing us to assess the qualifications and reputation of different tradespeople.
Whether you are looking to renovate your family home, maintain a commercial complex, or embark on a new build, Retro Construction delivers quality building solutions.
Ready to start your project? We are based in East Tamaki, Auckland. Contact us today for a professional and detailed quotation.
