With over 20 years’ experience and a dedicated team of professionals and quality trades, Magnus Construction strives for excellence in delivering projects for clients and developers on time, with a focus on personalised service. Founder and Managing Director, Adam Magnus’s experience is reflected in the professional and systematic management approach inherent within the business.
Construction wasn’t Adam’s first inclination to pursue when he was at school, in fact he was more interested in psychology and the sciences. “It was actually my woodwork teacher who took the time to encourage me to study construction management at RMIT which is the premier institution for this course. He explained that one needs to be both hard-headed and switched on and he saw both these qualities in me. Luckily, I had a great deal of respect for him, so I followed it through, even though having worked part-time on construction sites I saw the less glamorous side of the industry. He certainly changed the course of my life.”
Adam loved the business behind running a construction company, and this combined with his experience working on the tools set him on the pathway to a junior role at one of Melbourne’s major building companies. “It’s one thing learning through books and a whole different thing learning on the job – a tertiary education certainly helps you connect the dots more efficiently. I put myself forward for every opportunity and was promoted quite quickly to Project Manager at the age of 25, which was the youngest in the company’s 100 year history. I was loyal, ambitious and process driven, and nothing really phased me which stood me in good stead.”
After ten years, Adam decided it was time to launch his own enterprise, and Magnus Construction was born in 2013. “I took a lot of learnings into this venture, and I was focused on creating a residential construction company that delivered beautiful homes as a premier builder. My philosophy is in line with the old school principles I was taught and my own sense of integrity – to show loyalty to my network and to look after my team of trades.”
Now nearly 12 years on, Magnus Construction has built over 50 homes, with architectural styles that have increased significantly in footprint and the level of design and materiality. “Through osmosis the company has grown, and as our profile has garnered respect, our clientele has developed. The network and calibre of designers we now work with, like Kate Walker and KWD, has certainly elevated the type of premier home we build. It’s important that I always maintain a personal touch. I still read every email and attend every site meeting so I can be across every detail. When clients engage Magnus Construction, they engage me and my team who have been with me for the journey, and ensure I have the fire power to execute quickly, efficiently and effectively.”
“Working with Magnus Construction is always a masterful and respectful collaboration,” explains Kate Walker, “combining KWD’s vision and interiors with the craftsmanship and execution of Adam Magnus whom I hold in such high esteem. From concept to completion, the flawless process of the design and build exemplifies what can be achieved when you bring together a team that is instinctively in tune. Individually, we have perfected our craft. Together, we are aligned and supportive with a deep and meaningful connection that engenders creative freedom.”
When Kate and Adam discussed the My Happy Space Movement projects, Adam was immediately on board to assist with anything the team needed. “I could really sympathise with what Kate was trying to achieve. I come from humble beginnings with a challenging childhood and upbringing, so I know what it’s like to do it tough. And over the years I have lost friends in difficult circumstances so I understand loss and what it can do to a family. I came from very little and have achieved so much, so this was an opportunity for me to give back and try and bring some joy to families in need. A special thank you to Chris Drew, my construction manager (who was the one on site coordinating everything and bringing the rooms to life), to Skilled Constructions who was our lead carpentry crew, and all of our trades who gave their time and expertise so graciously.”