Breen Construction Takes Top Honours for Scapegrace Distillery at 2025 Commercial Building Awards

Breen Construction is thrilled to announce it has received the Supreme Award (Under $10 Million) at the 2025 Commercial Building Awards for its work on the Scapegrace Distillery — an architecturally ambitious, sustainability-led project that blends form and function.

Designed by Cheshire Architects and delivered by Breen Construction as project owner and project manager, the team also included HFC Structures Ltd and Pacific Process.

Hidden in the hills of Bendigo, Central Otago, the distillery build reflects Scapegrace’s ambitious carbon-zero objectives, achieved through a number of initiatives such as the installation of a renewable electricity-powered electrode boiler—replacing conventional gas systems—and supported by Breen’s comprehensive waste-reduction strategy throughout the build.

The project required significant technical coordination, including the intricate installation of large copper stills shipped from Scotland. The laminated veneer lumber (LVL) portal frame was another structural highlight, assembled in ground-level segments using a custom scaffold system to minimise risk and maximise build efficiency.

Of the build, Scapegrace Managing Director Danial McLaughlin commented:

“Breen Construction rose to the challenge and exceeded every expectation, delivering a facility that is not just functional but a true masterpiece in craftsmanship. What has stood out most throughout the process has been their meticulous attention to detail. The end result is a distillery that not only reflects the high standards of our brand but also stands as an architectural landmark in its own right.”

The judging panel commended the project’s visionary design approach, careful material selections, and clear environmental leadership. They noted the team’s ability to navigate complex weather conditions and manage a high degree of technical complexity, all while maintaining exceptional attention to detail across both interior and exterior finishes.

Peter Breen, Commercial Director of Breen Construction, acknowledged the collaborative effort behind the win:

“This award is the culmination of two years of great work by our people. It speaks to the strength and skill of our team. I want to give special mention to Tyler Smith, Breen’s Project Manager, who led this build with professionalism and care. We’re grateful for the trust the Scapegrace team placed in us to deliver such a significant project.”