Our Clients – R+B Build
R+B Build is a family-owned design and build company specialising in high-quality architectural homes and townhouse developments across Christchurch. Founded by Brett and Linsay Armstrong in 2013, the business brings over 20 years of experience to the industry, combining innovative design with expert craftsmanship to create homes that are both functional and beautiful. They do this by keeping everyone under one roof.
“We design, we price, we build to a budget,” explains Linsay. “We have our own designers, QS team, and builders. We control the process from start to finish.”
The R+B Build team sit down with the client and discuss their dreams, timing, budget, location and everything in between, setting out a plan to turn that dream into reality. Their architects draft the plans with a thorough understanding of the cost of building materials, shipping times and other constraints. Their builders then execute the plans, and their dedicated interior designer, Carol, helps clients choose paint colours, flooring, and kitchen counters that work with their theme.
Why does R+B Build work this way? Because so many times, as projects move from one party to another (say, from architect to builders) issues can arise due to misunderstandings on budget or sourcing, which is disappointing for clients. By offering the full service, R+B Build can ensure that their clients’ dreams are possible—both physically and financially. “The magic is in the design and pricing process,” Linsay says. “There’s constant feedback between our teams to keep things on track and mitigate issues before they arise.”
R+B Build has recently expanded into townhouses, hoping to ease the housing burden in its hometown. Dedicated to building quality houses for any budget, this has been a successful area of growth for the company. “We try to do them differently so they’re not just run-of-the-mill townhouses and make the most of the space.”
“We love building homes for people,” Linsay says. “When we see our clients happy and loving their new home, that’s the best part.” R+B Build’s sister company RBA Studio recently won an Architectural Design NZ award for a home in Cashmere, and the team got to share the moment they won with their clients. With a striking gable roof and unique concrete panelling, it’s obvious why this standout home won.
To create such spectacular homes, it’s essential that R+B Build keep on top of their finances. This is where Leech & Partners come in. While Partner Chris Smith and the team help with everything from monthly WIP check-ins to annual accounts, “keeping us honed in on what we need to focus on is where the team does best,” Linsay says. “Chris gives us a heads up when there’s something we should know about, and he has great relationships with banks and other parties he can introduce us to.”
