Case Studies - what our clients say
Case Study: Brett & Emma’s Full Renovation in Wanaka (2024)
Granny flat + large garage with loft (live-on-site build)
Project Facts
Location: Wānaka
Year: 2024
Scope: Full renovation + granny flat + large garage with loft
Key constraint: Grandma remained living onsite throughout the build
Brett and Emma engaged us for a full renovation in Wānaka, including a granny flat and a large garage with a loft to support multi-generational living and create more flexible space on the property. From the first conversations, they wanted a clear plan, a realistic timeline, and a team they could trust to manage a complex renovation properly.
A major requirement was that grandma needed to remain living in the original house during construction. We staged the work carefully, maintained safe access, and ran a tidy, respectful site so her day-to-day routine could continue with minimal disruption. For Brett and Emma, knowing this could be accommodated removed a huge stress before the build even began.
Throughout the renovation, communication was a priority. Brett and Emma received regular updates and progress reports, and when questions came up—often late in the week—we were available to explain what was happening and why. They also appreciated the crew’s positive and friendly manner, and that visiting the site was always welcome.
After completion and sign-off, an unexpected issue surfaced: the original house’s Code Compliance Certificate (CCC) had not been finalised by the previous builder. While unrelated to our renovation work, it still needed solving. We jumped straight in, worked through the options, and used our experience and industry contacts to find a pathway forward and get the issue resolved—despite it being a complex fix.
Brett and Emma were thrilled with the result and described the team as reliable, honest, and committed—and said they’d confidently build with us again.
Case Study: Johns Creek Renovation (2022)
Reconfiguration + Rimu Feature Timber Reuse
Project Facts
Location: Johns Creek renovation
Purchased: September 2021
Scope: Full renovation + internal reconfiguration
Feature: Reclaimed Rimu timber integrated into the finished home
Outcome: “Unrecognisable now” – major transformation
Chris and Martin purchased a run-down crib in September 2021 and lived in it for a challenging year before engaging McKay Brothers Renovations to renovate and transform the home. The goal was to reconfigure the layout, lift overall quality, and retain character—using creative problem-solving and thoughtful material reuse.
Chris and Martin wanted:
A renovation that lifted quality and comfort across the home
A smarter layout through reconfiguration of spaces
A team that communicated clearly and made the process easier
Solutions that respected the home’s character, including reusing quality existing timber where possible
Examples of Rimu reuse included:
Rimu from an old cloakroom, hidden behind a bathroom wall, repurposed into the kitchen
Rimu bedroom floorboards uplifted and relaid in the lounge for a consistent, premium finish
Joe’s relaxed, easy-going manner made communication simple and consistent throughout the project. The team focused on practical, buildable ideas - thinking creatively to solve problems and deliver a result that felt cohesive rather than “patched together.”
The home was fully reconfigured, improving how the spaces function day to day. By combining layout improvements with quality finishing and clever timber reuse, the end result became “unrecognisable” compared to the original state.
“The care taken by Joe McKay was exceptional… The whole place has been reconfigured, it’s unrecognisable now — all in all the quality has been exceptional and we’re very, very pleased with the renovation.”
- Chris & Martin
Case Study: Burdon Loop - New Build (2024)
Construction of a new home + attached secondary dwelling
Project Facts
Project: Burdon Loop – New Build
Location: Lake Hawea
Scope: Residential new build
Client priority: Seamless process, clear advice, maintain schedule
Outcome: On-programme delivery and a very happy client
The team at McKay Brothers Building were engaged for a new build at Burdon Loop in Lake Hawea. From the outset, the focus was on making the process straightforward: clear communication, practical advice when needed, and steady progress on site.
Throughout the build, Joe provided strong customer service and local knowledge, which helped the project run smoothly. Vikki particularly valued that Joe was always happy to take a call and talk through questions as they came up - support that made decision-making easier and reduced stress during the build given she was not located in the Wanaka area.
Maintaining the schedule was also a priority. The team worked consistently to keep the project moving to programme, protecting timelines and ensuring momentum on site. The result was a seamless building experience and a finished home Vikki was extremely happy with.
Vikki had no hesitation in recommending McKay Brothers Building for any build project and said she would definitely use the team again.
