I’ve been in the building trade for three decades now, having founded Shiel Developments 10 years ago. In that time, materials have changed, regulations have tightened and client expectations have grown (and rightly so). But when it comes down to what really matters on a project, some things haven’t changed at all.
So here’s a perspective from someone who’s still hands-on, still managing jobs on site, and still proud to deliver homes that change people’s lives.
Clients want more (and better)
Clients are more informed. They’ve watched the programmes, done the research and know what good looks like. I think that’s a really positive thing. People are investing serious money in their homes, so it makes sense that they expect the finish, performance and service to reflect that.
How it looks isn’t always the main focus. Clients are thinking about how the space will work day-to-day. They want better insulation, better light and flexibility for the future. I love having these conversations as it means we can create homes that really work for the people living in them.
Design has moved on
We’ve worked with some brilliant architects over the years. And what we’re seeing now is an appetite for bold design: big windows, clean lines, unusual materials. That’s exciting.
But not every design is buildable as-is. We’ve stepped in on more than one project where the plans looked great on paper but didn’t hold up structurally or practically. One of the many things we do really well at Shiel, is working alongside designers and engineers to keep the design intent intact while making sure it works in the real world.
Tech has levelled up
Smart homes, energy systems, automation, this side of homebuilding has come a long way and is really exciting! Clients can now control lighting, security, heating and even their blinds from their phone.
The systems we install help people reduce their energy use, improve comfort and make their homes easier to manage. It’s part of our job to know what’s out there and advise on what will actually work for each client.
But the basics haven’t changed
All of that said, the foundations of good building work haven’t changed.
You still need clear communication. You still need the right tradespeople, showing up with pride in their work. You still need a builder who’ll treat your home like it matters.
At Shiel, we take pride in the smaller number of projects we take on, making sure they are planned, built and delivered with the utmost care and respect. We know that trends come and go, but in 30, 40 or 50 years, a well-built home will stand strong.