We are excited to share that Manteena Security, along with the Museum of Australian Democracy OPH Heritage and Capital Projects, International Conservation Services, Celia Cramer Conservation, Conservation Works, Eric Martin & Associates and Art & Archival, has been recognised with the first-place award in the “Architecture and Building Conservation” category at the 2023 National Trust (ACT) Heritage Awards.
This award recognises the outstanding conservation and restoration work on heritage-listed buildings. A huge shout out to: Claire, Alex, Dylan, Jess, Matt F, Remo and the entire team for your incredible contribution to this project. Your hard work and dedication have truly paid off and this award underscores our commitment to preserving and restoring heritage with the highest standard of excellence. It was a huge honour to be entrusted by the Museum of Australian Democracy OPH Heritage and Capital Projects and to work closely with the design team, heritage & conservation experts and all our other subcontractors.
Restoring a National Icon: Old Parliament House
The recent restoration of the Old Parliament House, a site of profound historical significance in Australia, presented a unique challenge. This iconic building, representing the unity between the crown and people, suffered extensive fire damage, marking a somber moment in our national history. The damage was not just physical but symbolic, affecting a structure deeply intertwined with Australia’s political and social narrative.
The extent of the devastation was significant, with the fire engulfing the entire front of the building, resulting in soot and smoke damage that marred the Kings Hall ceiling and blackened various interiors. The intensity of the fire and the subsequent water damage left an indelible mark, causing irreparable harm to varnished timber, fabrics, sculptures, and the intricate parquetry floor. This tragic event called for a meticulous and sensitive restoration approach.
A Delicate Balance: Conservation and Restoration
The challenge of the restoration lay in balancing authenticity and heritage conservation. Manteena Security’s approach was defined by careful decision-making to preserve as much of the original structure and materials as possible. This endeavor involved detailed cleaning of diverse materials and replicating damaged items with the correct patina, thereby preserving the stories and history embedded in the building’s fabric.
Specific conservation efforts included the main staircase, display cases, signage, and the iconic doors. While some parts were beyond recovery, every effort was made to retain original elements, taking into account the changes throughout the building’s history. This was a task that required not just technical skill but a deep understanding of the building’s historical context.
Democracy and Engagement: Reopening the Doors of History
The restoration of the Old Parliament House goes beyond physical repairs; it underscores the importance of this landmark in Australian democracy. As a focal point for civic engagement and education, the building’s reopening enables visitors, particularly school children, to connect with Australia’s democratic history. Through these restoration efforts, Manteena Security has helped to ensure that this essential chapter of Australian history remains accessible, allowing future generations to understand and appreciate the value of democracy in our nation.
Manteena Residential has been recognised as one of Australia’s best builders at the Master Builders Australia National Excellence in Building and Construction Awards, hosted in Perth.
Named as finalists in 5 categories after an incredibly successful ACT MBA Building Excellence Awards in September, Manteena Residential was awarded the National Renovations/ Extensions Award $650K-$1M for the Macgregor St Residence, demonstrating the highest quality build in Australia for this category.
This project saw the Manteena Residential and N1 Creative teams undertake a renovation and extension of an old Deakin Cottage. The extension integrates seamlessly with the works that have been completed in the original part of the home, creating an oasis that makes you completely forget you are in Canberra’s Inner South upon entering the front door. Extension works consisted of the new entry, master suite, kitchen and dining area, outdoor Alfresco area, powder room, butler’s pantry and sunken lounge.
“It’s an absolute honour to be recognised at this level, and a true testament to the work our team produces. I could not be prouder to work with these boys and our incredible team of contractors and consultants every day,” says Manteena Residential Operations Manager, Danny Agnello.
Danny was recognised himself as a finalist in this year’s National Young Builder of the Year category, after a 21 year career at Manteena and being awarded Young Builder of the Year at the MBA ACT Awards in September.
“I’ve had the pleasure of working with Danny at Manteena for the last 21 years. His journey from Cadet, to ACT Young Builder of the Year is one we are all very proud of,” says Manteena CEO, Mark Bauer.
“We’re very proud of the Residential team and our wider team of subcontractors and consultants. Having delivered 3 award-winning homes, and to be recognised for ACT “House of the Year” at the State Level, and now to receive this recognition on the national stage is a reflection of the teams commitment to quality and excellence.”
This is not the first time Manteena Residential has been recognised on the national stage, after taking out 2021 “Residential Builder of the Year” and “House of the Year” for its Tennyson Crescent Residence, a project that continues to set the standard of quality construction across the ACT and beyond.
We’re incredibly proud to showcase our award-winning custom-built home, valued at over $4m. Nestled in the heart of the historic Red Hill precinct, this architectural marvel stands as a testament to our commitment to design, precision and client vision.
Masterfully designed by Adam Hobill of Adam Hobill Design, the journey began in late 2018 with a humble butter paper sketch. The design brief was clear: to craft a home that exudes traditional elegance while championing connectivity to outdoor spaces, natural light, and ventilation. The site’s generous width paved the way for a symmetrical footprint, with rooms radiating off a central spine to harness natural ventilation and light.
One of the client’s core visions was an outdoor entertainment expanse that flawlessly wove the pool into the entertainment hub. This vision was brought to life impeccably, as the backyard now serves as a sanctuary for sun-soaked summer days and offers a cozy sunken fire pit retreat for winter evenings.
The team’s collaboration with the client began in early 2019. After diligently refining the design and coordination for over 12 months, the groundbreaking moment arrived in June 2020 (just before COVID shutdowns). Fast forward 21 months to May 2022, and the dream was realised—a splendid three-story residence that harmoniously complements its surroundings. As time progresses, the landscaping will further accentuate the home’s beauty, while its bitumen driveways, front fencing, hedges and piers will continue to echo the heritage of the streetscape.
A project of this magnitude owes its success to the dedication and hard work of our exceptional team. A heartfelt acknowledgment to Lewis H, Kaspar C, Anthony A, Scott P, Mitch G, Emma T, Adam P, Nick P, Barrie D, Liam K, Chris P, Jack G, Beth C, Danny A, Angus M, and Frazer B.
Manteena is thrilled to announce a significant accolade within our team – congratulations to Danny Agnello on being named the Master Builders Association ACT “Young Builder of the Year”!
Danny’s journey at Manteena is one of a passion for building, growth and commitment. From his beginnings as a labourer to his current role leading Manteena Residential, Danny’s dedication to the craft of building has been unwavering. His rise is not just a personal success story but a reflection of the strength and talent within our team.
The success of Manteena Residential is a shared achievement, a testament to the combined efforts of our dedicated team. Danny himself acknowledges this collaborative spirit: “This recognition from the MBA is not only a personal milestone but also a tribute to the hard work and commitment of our entire team. A special thank you to Scott Press and Anthony Aloe, and our partners at ARAA and Archertec Interiors. Their contributions have been pivotal to our success, and this award symbolises our joint ambition to continually elevate the standards of the building industry.”
We are extremely proud of Danny’s leadership and the high standards he upholds. His accolade is a deserved one, shining a light on his individual talent and the collective excellence of the Manteena Residential team.
Congratulations, Danny!
We are thrilled to announce that Manteena, in collaboration with Architects Ring & Associates and Archertec Interiors, has been awarded the MBA ACT ‘House of the Year’ for our Deakin project at the 2023 Master Builders ACT and Asset Construction Hire Building Excellence Awards.
This accolade speaks to the devotion, craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail our residential team and building partners poured into this ambitious project.
Unmatched Craftsmanship in Every Corner
A home’s soul lies in its details. Every room, corner and element in the Deakin project whispers a story of unparalleled craftsmanship. The show-stealer was undeniably the handcrafted staircase, which stands as a testament to precision, having been delivered to the millimetre. The process of creating each timber stair tread required on-site templating followed by off-site manufacturing. It is this precision that can be observed throughout every nook and cranny of the house.
From brick corbelling, intricate parapets, elegant wainscoting and detailed cornices & skirting boards; the dedication to preserving master craftsmanship is evidently felt.
Innovation and Global Inspiration
This home wasn’t just built; it was curated. The wrought-iron balustrades, painted to mirror the finish of the aluminium window frames, bring a touch of vintage elegance. In a harmonious blend of local craftsmanship and global aesthetics; chandeliers, pendants and wall lights were handpicked and sourced through the homeowner’s European connections.
Our approach to design was both aesthetic and functional. Flooring direction was meticulously planned to softly separate the rooms, allowing them to seamlessly connect. The consistent high-quality visible throughout the house was achieved through weekly team meetings, specialised workshops and creating prototypes to finalise key details.
Beyond Design: Adaptability in Focus
One of the standout features of this project was the team’s adaptability. The team capitalised on voids identified during the modelling phase. Our innovative team then transformed these spaces into practical storage drawers and introduced a laundry chute to the floor below, optimising every inch of the residence.
A Symphony of Collaboration
This project stands as a symphony of collaboration between Manteena, Architects Ring & Associates, and Archertec Interiors. The outcome? An architectural marvel of finely detailed architecture and bespoke modelling, rendering a house that’s not just a dwelling but a work of art.
https://www.manteena.com.au/project/norman-street-residence-deakin/
Manteena have had a Carpentry Apprenticeship and Building Pathways Program for the past 3 years, creating opportunities for young apprentices to gain qualifications, understand the building process and progress into Leading Hand, Site Supervisor, Site Manager or office-based roles.
Mitch Gatenby joined the Manteena Apprentice Program in the third year of his Carpentry Apprenticeship and was named the 2022 Apprentice of the Year for MBA ACT last Friday.
Mitch’s passion for quality, high end construction is what led him to Manteena Residential 2 years ago.
It’s an incredible honour to take it out. It’s not something I was expecting and you don’t get an apprenticeship in hopes of winning Apprentice of the Year but it means a lot to be recognised for the effort I have put in over the years.
I used to work at Volkswagen and I knew I wanted to do an apprenticeship and get into construction. I knew a few carpenters who put me in contact with a few builders and that’s really how it all started.
For me carpentry was the trade of choice. I wanted to get my qualifications and learn the skills around building, and client and project management within building, so it just made sense.
I worked for a couple of builders before joining Manteena and was able to learn about the different areas of carpentry and building more generally at different scales which has been invaluable. It’s been really cool to learn different skills and delivery processes as well as gain an understanding of the whole building and construction process so I’ve been pretty lucky.
It’s the best job I have ever had. We have a really good team in Residential and everyone is really welcoming across the entire group.
Building high quality, top end homes with a focus on the finishes is what I have always wanted to do so I love it.
Having a trade is invaluable. There are so many areas in life where I can apply the skills I have learnt which makes it more than just a job in some ways.
There is always work available and options to move and change within the industry once you finish your apprenticeship, so you aren’t locked into just being a trade if you don’t want to be. I would highly recommend trade based apprenticeships to anyone who wants to get into the construction industry and who wants to be a builder or Site Manager someday.
Another huge night for our Forrest residence…winning numerous Housing Industry Associations (HIA) awards:
Again – congratulations to to our Residential team for all your hard work and dedication and for all the industry accolades you are now receiving!
Manteena Residential has taken out the top honour at the 2021 Master Builders ACT – Excellence in Building Awards.
The Tennyson Crescent project scoped the pool with 4 awards on the night:
Danny Agnello, Operations Manager, Residential said, “we are incredibly honoured and proud of this magnificent achievement. It’s such an amazing home for some very special and amazing clients”.
“I’m super proud of the team and what we have achieved. And importantly, it was such great collaboration with Architects Ring & Associates and The Dept. of Design”.