Euan Playle — Levin

For many years, Euan had dreamed of a shed to store his tractor collection. But not just any shed. It had to be his dream shed, built specifically for the tractors, with space left for a bar and a bit of a man cave.

The site was a triangular block at his beach property in Levin, where he and his family now spend most of their time. Being this close to the coast, the shed would need to handle salt-laden winds and the harsh coastal conditions.

Euan didn't rush the decision. He spent time comparing the various shed companies and designs side by side, including a trip to the Mystery Creek Fieldays to see them all in person. This sold him on Alpine.

"I'd spent a lot of time comparing the various manufacturers, including going to Mystery Creek. Seeing them all side by side made my decision for me."

Euan wanted a shed built to stand the test of time.

Rust Protection. Living close to the coast meant light-duty materials weren't an option. Euan wanted certainty the shed would endure harsh coastal conditions year after year. Alpine’s hot-dip galvanised structural steel rafters, paired with timber poles and framing, provided the ultimate long-term durability and rust protection.

"The issues were that being in a beach environment, we wanted to make sure everything was galvanised and of high quality."

Clearlight for Natural Light and Warmth. The north-facing wall was fitted with a Clearlight panel strip running the length of the shed, a small design call that's made a big difference for Euan.

"During the winter with the sun shining, it's unbelievable - one, the light, and two, the warmth that comes through."

Every Detail Accounted For. Euan's builder, Rob, had put up Alpine sheds before and rated them. But it was the completeness of the kitset, right down to the smallest details, that stood out.

"When I saw it (the kitset) all arrive and saw the detail of the instructions and the packs - including the jellybeans - I was most impressed. Even though Rob had built them before and swore by them, the fact is a new builder could have a shot at it, and it would go up just as quickly."

For Euan, what impressed him as much as the finished shed was Alpine's efficiency and how seamless the overall process was.

"The thing that's impressed me about Alpine, apart from the final product, was how efficient the communication was, and how well it fitted in with me. I'm semi-retired, so I've got a few time demands too, like every other person. But the team, especially on the planning side, were brilliant and patient. Always on time. It was a seamless process."

Euan now has his dream shed. A home for his prized tractor collection, a place to have a beer in, and a shed built to last a lifetime. Or two.

"It's been a great, fantastic experience. Well worth the wait."

“I don't easily endorse things unless I'm 100% happy, and this is an instance when I am - very happy to give a personal recommendation to anyone that wants it."