When Tasman Vets opened its new clinic in Motueka, local builder Ryan Mitchell was behind the transformation – and it was far from a standard job.
Ryan, who specialises in renovations, says he was approached around March to see if he was keen to take on the build.
“I’ve done law offices, hearing stores, and even heritage homes, but I’d never built an X-ray room before,” Ryan says.
The X-ray room proved to be the biggest challenge.
“There’s a lot to think about, penetrations, how X-rays travel,” he says.
“The chipboard we used, called X Block, was unbelievably heavy. A full sheet was almost too much for me to carry on my own.”
An expert was brought in from the North Island to advise on the technical requirements, but Ryan says much of the build involved adapting as they went.
“There were changes along the way, the entranceway, for example. But we’re really happy with how it turned out.”
Ryan says working with the clinic owners was a highlight.
“They were excited and really involved. Their husbands pitched in too – one’s a sparky and had great ideas. It made the job interesting.”
Ryan moved to Motueka in 2003 and has built a reputation for tackling complex projects.
“I enjoy heritage homes because you have to make things look like they’ve always been there. New builds are more about following instructions.”
As for Tasman Vets, Ryan believes the new clinic will be a hit.
“They’re great people and the feedback’s been positive. I’m sure people will love dealing with them, I did.”
