When craftsman building skills combine with skylight installation experience and an understanding of what home buyers want, great things can be accomplished.
Andre Papprill is a master builder with more than 20 years experience building homes in New Zealand. Having settled in New Plymouth, he operates Andre Papprill Builders, a residential building company specialising in high-end architectural builds. In 2018 Andre Papprill Builders achieved a Gold award at the Master Builders Home of the Year competition. Andre Papprill Builders became a Certified VELUX Installer in 2012 and has been installing skylights ever since.
A showhome as a proof point
Having a showhome to demonstrate his team’s ability is part of Andre’s recipe for success. It means prospective clients can tour a house that displays their commitment to quality, innovation and attention to detail. It’s a two-storey home that makes a real statement from the street. However the real magic happens on the inside. The main access way that connects downstairs and upstairs spaces also enjoys natural light from the skylight above. Andre says “ ‘wow’ is the word I hear most often when showing people around the home.”
Clever use of skylights
Sunshine, natural light and effective ventilation are always high on every home buyer’s wish list. But buyers also want privacy from the neighbours – something that’s not easy to achieve in a level subdivision. “The section had its limitations, particularly with the direction of sunlight,” explains Andre. “Enhancing features of the home using natural daylight was a key part of our strategy.” A total of 18 skylights are installed in this home and 8 of them are solar powered, so they can be opened to ease heat gain in summer: “You can watch the stars at night, before you go to sleep and then close the blinds so the light won’t wake you up.”
Making a great impression
“I wanted to build a home that appeals to just about every genre – families, professional couples and retirees. The use of skylights makes us a bit more unique. We’re the only certified VELUX installers in Taranaki, so we’ve used our experience to create not only light, but a good vibe and feeling for the home. When you enter, you’re welcomed by natural light. It lifts you up and makes you happy.”