We are thrilled to announce that Amsted Design-Build is this year’s recipient of the prestigious Greater Ottawa Home Builders’ Association (GOHBA) Fred Nielsen Award. The award recognizes a company that makes “outstanding and lasting contribution to the association and the housing industry,” GOHBA president Roy Nandram said when announcing the award at the association’s annual general meeting on March 10.
“This year’s recipient, Amsted Design-Build, continues to be a strong, positive presence in the housing and renovation industry,” Nandram said. He acknowledged the numerous committees our staff have participated in, including the Housing Design Awards, Renovators Council, the Building Innovation Committee, and the Board of Directors.
“They continue to receive multiple awards from all three levels of the association, including being named 2019 renovator of the year both provincially and locally,” Roy said. “The Amsted design team are proud GOHBA ambassadors, promoting the benefits that working with GOHBA members provides through seminars, consultation, home shows, and television appearances.”
“Also, in giving back to the community, they support the Boys and Girls Club of Ottawa and Hospice Care Ottawa, among many other initiatives.”
In accepting the award on behalf of staff — a whole table of whom joined him on the stage — Amsted president Steve Barkhouse noted how tremendously honoured we are as a company to receive the award.
“Thirty years ago my father gave me some sage advice. He said, ‘The first thing you do when you start your business is you join the home builders’ association or I’m going to kick your butt.’ Those that know my Dad, know he can still kick my butt so I joined right away,” Steve said to a room full of laughter.
“We followed his legacy of volunteering at the home builders. Everybody that you saw on stage volunteered this year their time to work at the home builders and forward our initiatives and I am super proud of that.” 
Steve, and the rest of the company, are particularly proud of this award because it’s unique. It’s not about any individual project or any individual person. It’s about the entire team.
“It goes all the way back to my Dad being president and active in the home builders, to my term, and now as I get a little grey around the edges I’ve got these young people who are taking over,” Steve said. “We’ve got a table full of people who are active in the association. I’m just super proud of that. My Dad’s proud of that. It’s our legacy. And to be recognized for our efforts – holy cow!”