Meet the crew

Specialising in extensions, open plan living & New Builds

Passion binds us together

Good quality starts with good people

We do more than build and renovate homes; we also take care of the entire process, so you can feel confident and supported every step of the way. Our team is made of skilled workers that we can rely on to look after our clients as they make, likely, the biggest investment of their life. Our promise to you is that our team share our sincere passion and care.

We’re based in Newcastle NSW and work across Lake Macquarie, we help homeowners navigate what can often feel like an overwhelming  and confusing process: from design and approvals to construction and handover. Whether you’re planning a second-storey addition in Warners Bay or an open-plan renovation in Charlestown, we’ll keep things simple and transparent, with clear communication, realistic timelines and a team that genuinely cares.

Clients often tell us they feel heard and supported throughout the project, because we stay involved, stay honest and make sure the result reflects your vision.

When you work with us, you’ll always be treated with honesty, flexibility and respect. You’ll feel comfortable having our team in your home – and confident knowing we’re just as focused on your experience as we are on the final outcome.

How we do it

A 9-step process for seamless Newcastle renovations and extensions

We follow a structured nine-step system to keep your Newcastle or Lake Macquarie home extension or renovation on track from start to finish. It all starts with getting to know what matters most to you – how you live, what you’re dreaming of and what’s realistic for your budget – before moving into feasibility, early design concepts, and detailed cost planning.

We’ll talk you through the Development Application process, prepare documentation and liaise with the council so you know exactly what to expect.

From coordinating Newcastle based engineers, designers and certifiers to managing approvals and supplier timelines, we take care of everything behind the scenes. If reports are needed, we’ll organise them. If selections are due, we’ll guide you through them. 

We also help keep your design aligned with your budget so you can make informed decisions and avoid surprises later. And before any contracts are signed, we make sure your plans, pricing and expectations are fully aligned.

Our process gives you clarity at every stage – not just about what’s happening, but why. You’ll never be left wondering what the next step is or who to speak to.

By the time we break ground, everything’s ready to go. And once construction starts, we keep you informed and involved the whole way through. 

With realistic timelines, ongoing communication and a team you can rely on, you can feel confident that your project is running smoothly – and heading towards the outcome you imagined.

the faces of sage & stone

Joe Duffy
Founder and Director
Joe brings energy, warmth and a hands-on approach to every site he steps onto. As a dad of three, he knows what matters to young families – and takes pride in creating a wholesome, low-stress building experience from start to finish. He oversees each build personally, keeping communication clear and quality high every step of the way. Outside of work, you’ll find him on a motocross track or off on an outdoor adventure with his crew in the Newcastle and Lake Macquarie surrounds.
Claire Sheridan
Project Management and Contract Administration
Passionate, self-driven and highly organised, Claire guides each project with care and precision. With a strong background in civil engineering and project management, she supports clients from initial concept through to construction – keeping things clear, structured and on track. Outside of MAVA, she’s just as hands-on, whether she’s out mountain biking, frequenting Whitebridge coffee shops or tending to her garden.
George Rawlinson
Lead Carpenter
George is our kind and patient site supervisor – and MAVA’s resident Steve Irwin. Clients instantly warm to him, kids adore him, and if there’s a snake or spider that needs removing, he’s your guy. George spends his weekends crafting his own family home in Merewether, and travelling through Australia’s outback camping and fishing.
Joseph Hoslin
3rd Year Apprentice
A dedicated and hardworking Newcastle carpenter, Joe ‘Hos’ brings focus and discipline to every project – qualities he also channels into his passion for boxing. Now competing in serious bouts, he approaches both work and training with the same drive to improve and deliver his best.
Charlie Egan
1st year Apprentice
A proud Kahibah local, Charlie brings a grounded, community-focused approach to every project. When he’s not on site, you’ll find him surfing Dudley and Redhead breaks, or hitting the local Glenrock mountain bike trails – always up for an adventure and connected to the area he calls home.