By The 2024 Construction Achievements and Renovations of Excellence (CARE) Awards celebrated the finest in Vancouver Island’s construction industry, showcasing 57 gold-winning projects. Hosted by the Victoria Residential Builders Association (VRBA) at the Fairmont Empress Hotel, the event highlighted exceptional projects ranging from family communities to luxurious waterfront homes. The awards, judged by a panel of industry professionals, recognized excellence in architectural design, quality of workmanship, creative use of space, and energy efficiency. This year’s top honor, Project of the Year, was awarded to Rannala Freeborn Construction for their stunning Arbour House.
Celebrating Excellence in Design and Craftsmanship
The CARE Awards are renowned for spotlighting the best in design and craftsmanship within the construction industry. This year, the Project of the Year, Arbour House, stood out for its innovative architectural design and meticulous attention to detail. Designed by Patkau Architects, the 6,000-square-foot home overlooking Cadboro Bay features an intricate wooden arbour that unifies its spaces. The project also won awards for Best Bathroom over $100,000, Best Contemporary Kitchen over $250,000, and Best Single Family Detached Home over $4 million.
The People’s Choice Award went to Seba Construction and Thomas Philips Woodworking for The Manor, a custom home in Uplands. This award, voted on by the public, highlights the community’s appreciation for exceptional residential projects. The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Tim Schauerte of James’ Joinery, recognizing his significant contributions to the industry and community over the years.
The awards ceremony not only celebrated individual projects but also underscored the collective talent and dedication of the builders, architects, and designers who contribute to Vancouver Island’s vibrant construction sector. Their work exemplifies the highest standards of quality and innovation, setting benchmarks for future projects.
Emphasizing Sustainability and Affordability
Sustainability and affordability were key themes at this year’s CARE Awards. The Environmental Achievement Award was presented to Terry Johal Developments for their Built Green Platinum project, which features rooftop solar panels and ecosystem protection measures. This award recognizes efforts to incorporate sustainable practices into construction, reducing environmental impact and promoting energy efficiency.
The Building Better Futures Community Award went to HD Horne Sprayfoam & Insulation Ltd. for their contributions to energy efficiency in the Ditidaht First Nations community. This award highlights the importance of community-focused projects that enhance living conditions and promote sustainability. Tresah East, by Mike Geric Construction, won the Excellence in Creating Housing Affordability award, acknowledging their efforts to provide affordable housing amidst rising construction costs.
These awards reflect a growing commitment within the construction industry to address environmental and social challenges. By prioritizing sustainability and affordability, builders and developers are contributing to a more equitable and resilient community. The recognition of these efforts at the CARE Awards encourages continued innovation and leadership in sustainable construction practices.
Looking Ahead: Future Trends and Innovations
The CARE Awards not only celebrate past achievements but also set the stage for future trends and innovations in the construction industry. This year’s winners showcased the latest advancements in home building, including high-tech solar systems, environmentally friendly rainwater management, and the use of natural materials. These innovations are shaping the future of residential construction, emphasizing the importance of sustainability and energy efficiency.
The Victoria Residential Builders Association, a proponent of the Built Green program, continues to advocate for sustainable building practices. Their efforts are reflected in the projects recognized at the CARE Awards, which serve as models for the industry. As regulatory environments evolve and new technologies emerge, builders and developers are adapting to meet the demands of modern living while minimizing environmental impact.
Looking ahead, the construction industry on Vancouver Island is poised for continued growth and innovation. The projects celebrated at the CARE Awards demonstrate the potential for excellence in design, craftsmanship, and sustainability. By embracing these principles, the industry can continue to thrive, delivering high-quality, sustainable homes that meet the needs of diverse communities.