How a Hamilton Family Built Their Forever Home on an Impossible Block

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When other builders quoted sky high prices or simply walked away, this family wondered if their dream home was just that—a dream. Today, they're living proof that the right builder doesn't see obstacles. They see opportunities. And the awards lining their shelf prove it.

This family knew exactly what they wanted. The client came to us with an empty block of land. He had moved an old house. They wanted replace it with a home with an outstanding view & suit their family needs. The house had to have the view. It had to maximise every square metre. It would have to be built to a standard that would not be out of date in five years. The owner sold and moved the existing house leaving a very difficult building site with narrow street access and small footprint.

Excavation site for new construction, surrounded by residential houses on an urban slope, with fencing and straw barriers for safety and site management.
A construction site on a steep terrain with retaining walls and ongoing building work for a new modern residence.

The block was small. Really small sqm. And the street access? Even tighter.

They approached an architect, seeking someone, who could bring their vision to life. This site would be difficult, expensive, and risky to build on.

That sweeping outlook across the city. was of the reasons they'd fell in love with the location. They needed a builder who was qualified to work on a site like this.

Excavation site for a new residential construction showing retaining walls and construction equipment on a hillside.
Retaining walls and ongoing building work for the new modern residence is starting tom take shape.

Turning Limitations Into Architectural Triumph


A friend's recommendation became a reality of the dream home. McVeigh Homes' team had tackled similar challenging sites before, and more importantly, they didn't see the small block as a dealbreaker. They saw it as a design opportunity.

Right from the start, McVeigh Homes approached the project with a clear picture. No vague promises or guesswork. They created a detailed time plan that mapped out every phase of construction, accounting for the site's unique constraints. The narrow street access meant every delivery, every trade, every piece of equipment had to be scheduled with military precision. Time management wasn't just important here—it was everything.

The real challenge came in maximising liveable space without sacrificing light. With a small footprint, the lower level rooms risked feeling dark. The solution? Pedestrian glass panels that brought natural light flooding down from the ground levels. It's the kind of detail that separates a good build from an exceptional one.

Throughout the entire process, communication was constant. Weekly progress reports. Photos. Site meetings. No surprises, no guessing games. The family knew exactly where they stood at every stage, and when concerns came up, they were addressed immediately.

Modern contemporary house with rooftop terrace featuring outdoor seating, stylish lighting, and urban design elements. Perfect example of innovative home architecture and luxury living.
Stunning modern house with rooftop patio, outdoor furniture, and elegant lighting, showcasing contemporary home design and luxury living for urban lifestyle enthusiasts.

Impossible Block to Award Winning Home

The home was completed on schedule. Not a week late. Not over budget. Exactly as planned.

But here's what really matters: the architect's vision, the builder's & client input so that the design and build was executed so well that the project won awards. Industry recognition for this amazing home.

On schedule delivery: Project completed according to the original timeline, even with site constraints

Award winning execution: Architect's design realised to a standard that earned industry accolades

Maximum space achieved: Every square metre of the small block optimised for functional living and plenty of storage.

The home is an entertainers delight, taking full advantage of the seamless indoor outdoor flow. The kitchen isn't just beautiful—it's equipped with high end appliances that make cooking genuinely enjoyable. The connection between the living area and the pool means the kids can play and swim while still being in sight while cooking or sitting and relaxing in the family room.

The spaces are functional. The quality is obvious. Choosing good materials and thoughtful design: they don't date. Five years from now, ten years from now, this home will still feel current.

Modern luxury house with illuminated pool and spacious living area, showcasing contemporary architecture and outdoor amenities for a luxurious lifestyle.
Stunning contemporary home featuring an illuminated swimming pool, open-plan living room with stylish furniture, and expansive glass windows showcasing modern design.

Looking To Build? Call McVeigh Homes.

Maybe you’re in a similar spot. You’ve found a block with potential, but everyone keeps telling you it’s too difficult. Too steep. Too tight. Too expensive. Or maybe you’ve been quoted prices that don’t make sense. Or talked to builders who can’t show you they’ve actually done what you’re asking for

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