Who Are The Top Northern Builders in 2025? Master Builder Awards Spotlight UK's Best Local Talent

From saving crumbling chapels to building smart kitchens that work for every kind of family, this year’s North Master Builder Awards were packed with stories that go far beyond bricks and mortar. If you think construction is all diggers and dust, think again—this is about community, pride, and seriously clever solutions. And yes, someone might just win a shiny new Isuzu D-Max Pick-Up Truck.

Builders with heart and houses with soul

It’s easy to think of building as a tough, practical job. But for many of the winners recognised on 9 May 2025 at Newcastle’s Crowne Plaza, it’s also about leaving something behind that matters. Whether it’s a perfectly restored heritage cottage, a kitchen that empowers a family, or a school leaver who’s now leading a construction firm—these stories say a lot about the kind of grit and talent you’ll find in the North of England.

Let’s take a look at some of the projects and people that stood out this year.

Turning old spaces into something extraordinary

SR Design & Build Ltd (Lancaster) won the Commercial/Public Sector Project award for turning a tight, awkward courtyard into the “Secret Suites”—luxury apartments hidden in the city’s centre. It wasn’t just about fancy finishes; they had to crane hot tubs over rooftops and preserve the building’s historic face while creating high-end interiors.

“Their solutions, craftsmanship, and attention to detail are why we keep coming back.” – Joe Crookall, Secret Suites Lancaster

From no GCSEs to leading a company at 22

Joshua Robertson from Sheffield Loft Conversions Ltd bagged the title of Outstanding Builder of the Year—and rightly so. He left school without GCSEs but threw himself into an apprenticeship. Fast forward a few years and he’s now a director, mentoring others and showing that old-school values still matter.

“An exceptional young leader who is already changing the industry for the better.” – Judges’ panel

Renovations that respect the past

Large scale with a personal touch

Byram Construction Ltd restored a 1930s Methodist chapel in Holmfirth and turned it into a warm, family-friendly home. Think: preserved beams, big glass balconies, and modern living areas. It's not just smart, it’s sensitive.

“Every visitor is blown away by what Byram Construction has achieved.” – Client

They also scooped the Sustainable Building Award for another project nearby—one that hit Passive House standards (basically, super energy-efficient and comfy all year round). We're talking Sedum green roofs, MVHR systems, and stunning views.

Small projects, big impact

Tiny footprint, massive care

Ellis Bros Ltd tackled a Victorian office building from Skegness Railway Station. During one of the wettest springs ever, they carefully moved the fragile structure and rebuilt it at a new site. It’s the kind of work that keeps regional history alive, right down to sourcing authentic Victorian fittings.

“The Ellis Bros team treated the building like a living thing.” – Client

Teaching clients to build their own home

In Glenridding, I J Curry & Son didn’t just renovate a house—they let the homeowners get stuck in, repurposing beams and reusing stones together. It’s the kind of builder-client relationship that feels more like teamwork.

“We weren’t just clients—we were part of the team.” – Client

Kitchens that do more than just look pretty

Accessible, adaptable, and beautiful

Misura Ltd’s project in Ilkeston won for building a kitchen that’s more than stylish—it’s smart and inclusive. With ergonomic zones, smart tech, and clever cabinet placement, this kitchen empowers a family going through big life changes.

“Functionality and beauty can go hand in hand.” – Judges’ comment

Creative thinking in Sunderland

ASJ Construction Ltd didn’t panic when structural plans didn’t line up on their rear kitchen extension. Instead, they worked around it—literally turning a problem column into a centrepiece. Also featured: a hidden pet shower (because yes, that’s a thing now).

“A brilliant reimagining of a family kitchen space.” – Christine Thornley

Pushing boundaries in tight spots

Kev Wilson Builders Ltd, working in a remote Cumbrian village, proved that even tricky terrain can’t stop a determined team. With materials craned in and paths too narrow for delivery trucks, they built a home packed with eco-tech and dramatic features like floating steel staircases and vaulted living rooms.

“A truly impressive project despite challenging conditions.” – Chris Heeks

Breathing new life into community landmarks

R.N. Wooler & Company Ltd tackled a whopper: the Bradford Odeon, a decaying Art Deco gem. Restoring everything from plasterwork to roofs, they helped transform it into Bradford Live, a buzzing entertainment venue.

“A monumental project, brilliantly managed and delivered with pride.” – Judges’ panel

A business built to last—and give back

R & B H Alderson Ltd, based in County Durham, took home Business of the Year. The firm has been going for over 100 years, and still feels fresh. Their secrets? Onsite joinery, looking after staff, taking on apprentices, and doing the little things—like fitting a defibrillator in their local village.

“Not just building structures, but a community legacy.” – Christine Thornley

Quick look: Some of the top winners

• Commercial Project: SR Design & Build Ltd (Lancaster)
• Outstanding Builder: Joshua Robertson (Sheffield)
• Large Renovation: Byram Construction Ltd (Holmfirth)
• Sustainable Build: Byram Construction Ltd (Newmill)
• Kitchen Winner: Misura Ltd (Ilkeston) and ASJ Ltd (Sunderland)
• Small Renovation: Ellis Bros (Skegness) and I J Curry & Son (Glenridding)
• Public Sector Project: R.N. Wooler & Co Ltd (Bradford)
• House Builder: Kev Wilson Builders Ltd (Storth) and York Builder.com Ltd (Helmsley)
• Business of the Year: R & B H Alderson Ltd (County Durham)

These aren’t just flashy builds—they’re personal, thoughtful, and full of meaning. Whether it’s training new talent, preserving local history, or just making a house feel like home, this year’s Master Builder Awards prove there’s more than one way to build something brilliant.

Which of these projects would you love to live in?