
A contemporary new home that captures the sun and easily complements outdoor living may seem a little out of reach for homebuyers in the region, but Nigel Pugh, manager of Peter Ray Homes Nelson, would answer otherwise. “Building a new home is often more cost-effective than many people realise,” says Nigel. “Building as an investment is often a very good opportunity as well.”
“Once you start looking around at the price of existing homes you very quickly become aware that building can be a very viable option,” says Nigel. “Incorporating good design into the build can help to make it more economical.”
Showcasing a lower-cost new build, Nigel and his team have created a dream home in Richmond that perfectly fit the brief for their client, creating a timeless home that complements its surroundings.
Starting with a sketch from the client, Nigel collaborated with them, developing it together to come up with their perfect home. “The build took only five months and was completed in 2021. The client had free rein to include all of their ideas throughout the design process.”
“We maximised the outdoor living area to create a spacious feel, with the kitchen and bathroom being fully customised by the client to enhance the home.”
This resulted in a stunning and contemporary four-bedroom home with modern trimmings, boasting granite kitchen benchtops, a scullery, king-sized main bedroom with ensuite, a massive double garage and alfresco living - and Nigel is proud of what his company was able to achieve.
Peter Ray Homes has been operating in Nelson for over 14 years, designing and building award-winning homes, and the team are on hand to guide each client throughout the entire process.
Nigel has been the manager of the Nelson branch since its opening in 2007. “I love the climate here and the diversity of builds we have been commissioned to complete.”
Listening to his client’s needs are paramount to a successful build, says Nigel, and he prides himself on constructing quality homes and enjoys helping clients to see their dream build come to fruition.
Kim White is no stranger to the building scene and says her experience working with Nigel and consultant Sara Redwood was a hugely positive one. Having had several homes built previously, Kim is about to embark on her second home-build with Nigel Pugh and says their passion for an extremely high quality of work is key.
“Nigel and the team at Peter Ray Homes in Nelson are very, very good. Their quality of workmanship is very high. They are an exceptional company.” Kim says Nigel’s expertise and advice are second to none and his team are “on the ball” from start to finish.
“What is really great is that they are available to you, as a client, right to the very end, even throughout the handover process they are there, with no hesitation. Nigel is great at offering really helpful advice on the best way forward for you and the home. He is absolutely excellent at what he does.”

“Sometimes when building a home to on-sell, you have a very crucial time frame for completion. There is definitely a domino effect when this goes awry,” says Kim, “but Nigel is on the ball with every build and keeps things moving as much as possible across the board.”
Peter Ray Homes Nelson consultant, Sara Redwood, says Kim’s home came together beautifully. “Every new build presents a different and exciting challenge for us depending on the site, the client’s budget, lifestyle and design requirements. This one was built on a rear section and was designed to fit the site well, be functional and easy to live in. I think it transpired into a nice place to come home to – a beautiful, sunny, private haven.
“Whether a home is being built as the new family home or as an investment, we pride ourselves on constructing quality homes, working with trusted tradesmen, and strive to deliver great service throughout the entire process.”
For more information contact Nigel or Sara on 03 544 2434 or visit their show home at 55 Fairose Drive in Richmond.