We spoke with Alex Caddick, Managing Director of Design Builders Canterbury, about current market conditions, emerging design trends in the region, and what homeowners are prioritising in their builds.
What kinds of homes are you working on at the moment?
We’re working across a range of styles, from more architectural homes through to practical family builds. They all have a strong focus on tailored design. No two projects are the same, which keeps things interesting. It’s all about creating something that genuinely fits the client rather than forcing them into a “standard plan.”
Alex Caddick, Managing Director Sales
Design Builders Canterbury
What are clients prioritising in their homes at the moment?
There’s been a shift toward long-term quality. Clients are more focused on doing things properly upfront rather than cutting corners for short-term savings. This has seen us designing homes that are future-proofed for families to grow in and enjoy.
Are you seeing any key design trends emerging in the region?
We’re seeing a move toward simpler, more refined designs. Well-considered spaces rather than overly complicated layouts. Smarter use of space is becoming increasingly important. It’s less about size and more about how well the home functions. With smarter use of space, we’re seeing some really cool interiors in family homes that make the spaces feel truly unique.
What’s the biggest challenge clients face when they decide to build?
Most people are anxious about the process itself. They’ve never done it before. They don’t know if they’ll end up with something they regret, or if costs will spiral, or how long it’ll actually take. That uncertainty paralyses people. Our job is to remove that anxiety by being clear, transparent, and keeping regular communication with clients from day one
What sets Design Builders Canterbury apart?
Being family-run means we’re invested in our reputation. We’re not disappearing after the build, our name’s on it. We have an in-house design team, which keeps everything aligned from concept through to construction. We also have Kaye handling land procurement, which takes a huge weight off clients, finding the right land is often the hardest part.
Our approach is very collaborative. We work closely with clients to make sure the end result is exactly what they were aiming for, not just what’s easiest to build. We manage the entire process, which takes a lot of stress off the client. They’ve got one point of contact and a clear pathway from start to finish.
How are you finding the Canterbury market at the moment?
The market feels steady, and confidence is definitely improving. People are starting to move forward with builds again after a more cautious period. There are good opportunities for clients who are ready to go. It’s a perfect time to be building if you’ve got the right team around you. We’re still seeing strong interest in new homes, particularly from clients who want something tailored rather than buying existing, as they can’t find homes that suit their specific needs.
What’s next for the team?
We’ve got a solid pipeline of work coming through, along with a home entered in the Master Builders House of the Year Awards, with judging taking place in early May. Several builds are currently in design and ready to break ground.
The focus is on continued, controlled growth, ensuring we maintain quality as we take on more work. We’re looking forward to delivering one-of-a-kind homes over the next 12–18 months across the wider Canterbury region.
Follow along on our social media to see our clients’ builds take shape.
Every Design Builders home starts with a brief, a careful understanding of how you live, what you value, and how you want your home to feel. It’s the foundation for a home that’s truly built around you.
Ready to start your own journey? Connect with your local Design Builders team today, and let’s turn your ideas into a home you’ll love.
