Building on solid foundations

Across the Northern and Central Suburbs of Perth, Evan and Casey Turner are delivering bespoke buildings in a socially conscious, sustainable and customisable way.

The husband and wife team own Watershed Building Company, a family run, values led residential builder specialising in custom homes, extensions, renovations and granny flats. The business offers an integrated design and construct service, bringing planning, design, project management and construction together to give clients a clearer path from initial idea to finished home.

The Turners founded their custom home construction business on strong values and a relationship-based approach to building. Its focus is not simply on delivering a house, but on understanding each client’s family circumstances, lifestyle, interests and priorities before shaping a solution.

“Whether that’s based around family, lifestyles, hobbies, sports - we look into the project specifics,” explained Evan.

Evan and Casey also place importance on open communication, informed decision-making and building long-term relationships with clients, trades and suppliers.

Navigating commercial leasing

When the business grew and they were ready to sign a new lease for their Malaga headquarters, they needed the right information, guidance and tools.

“When we signed our new lease at our new office, we needed some advice on the terms on the lease,” Casey said.

“With commercial leasing, it’s something that we don’t do every day, I just wanted some advice on some of the terms and the structural things.”

After discovering the Small Business Development Corporation (SBDC) through our Facebook page, Casey booked an appointment through the SBDC website.

“We had some questions around who needs to maintain different elements of our building, it was really helpful to get clarification about things we should be doing and things the landlord needs to look after,” she said.

Evan Turners, owner of Watershed Building Company, posing on a building site whilst people work in the background.

Sharing practical support

Casey now encourages other business owners to seek support early, whether they are working through a lease or navigating another business issue, and has been proactive in directing other small business owner to the SBDC for advice.

“It’s been really helpful getting their advice. I’ve actually referred another friend on. They’ve started a business and I said a good place to start is to join the Facebook group and book an appointment if you need any assistance.”

Being open to advice and focusing on maintaining relationships and delivering quality, customer solutions has helped Watershed Building Services establish its place in Perth’s bespoke residential-building market. While growing, they have been able to maintain the personal service of a small, family-operated business.

The future is bright, with the company’s longer-term ambition to grow consciously as a socially conscious custom home builder and renovator for Perth families.