Email: kim@designtorenovate.co.nz
Call Us: +64 21 978 990
Address: 64 Queen Street, Level 1, Waiuku, Auckland
A New Lease on Life for an Old Bungalow
The Right Approach
Homeowners Rod and Jan have enjoyed their bungalow for many years, but knew the property’s period elements required some loving attention. When the couple needed to accommodate an elderly family member, it was the ideal opportunity to reconfigure the existing bathroom, convert an extra bedroom into an ensuite and walk-in wardrobe for themselves, and modernise the entire bungalow for comfort and convenience.
Knowing that this project was much more than a cosmetic upgrade, Rod and Jan turned to Renovation Consultant Kim Reiche for design guidance and project management.
Kim immediately understood what Rod and Jan were trying to achieve and warmed to the challenge of striking the right balance between traditional and modern. Rod and Jan were grateful for Kim’s respectful approach to the project
Project Costing and Construction
At the initial consultation, Rod and Jan described how they envisaged their renovation. As the design evolved, it was decided that the existing extra bedroom would be converted into a master ensuite and walk-in wardrobe, while the existing bathroom would be reconfigured and enlarged, and the laundry with the second toilet would be upgraded.
A Course Correction
As the builders and carpenters moved through the demolition and reconstruction phases of the project, it became apparent that the house was not quite level. Investigations revealed that some of the piles supporting the house had dropped and required structural reinforcement, therefore pushing the project costs up.
Rod and Jan were understanding about the increased costs, and recognised them as being essential for the renovation to proceed. Kim coordinated the additional work required and rescheduled tradespeople to ensure as little disruption as possible.
Once the floor was levelled, work continued apace - the existing bathroom, laundry, and new ensuite were reconfigured, the water lines plumbed into the new locations, and the floors and walls waterproofed so tiling could be completed prior to the installation of the new fittings.
A New Outlook on Life
The second piece of significant structural work involved widening the aperture of the wall, removing the existing French doors and installing double-glazed bifold replacements. These let in copious amounts of natural light and enhanced indoor-outdoor flow. The white frames with brass fittings also ensures the bungalow’s traditional look blends subtly with the design.
Kim’s expert project management overcame complications around COVID restrictions and material supply delays, and ensured the smooth scheduling of all electricians, painters, tilers and carpenters, working on Rod and Jan’s home.
Lasting Impressions
Rod and Jan have high praise for Kim’s experience and skills; her designs have rejuvenated their home with subtlety and elegance. The new bathrooms are sleek and modern with clean lines, frameless shower screens and large format tiles. The colour scheme is a blend of fresh white with a palette of coffee, ash, and warm lights, to complement the original styling of the doors and windows. With their improved functionality, the bright, pristine laundry and bathroom are now a joy to use, and provide the perfect solution for the couple’s changing lifestyle.
Undoubtedly the stroke of genius was replacing the old French doors. The new bi-folds mean the outlook is no longer restricted by small doorways and the view is expansive.
The design decisions, combined with the bathroom, laundry, and ensuite renovations, have created a synergy within the home; the internal space has expanded but has been kept within the same footprint to reflect the nature and history of the bungalow. With fresh white interior walls and timber trims, and warm downlights throughout the room, Kim has created a sense of comfort and modernity.
Rod and Jan are overjoyed with their decision to use Kim, as everything was handled with a minimum of fuss, and the results are perfect. Their beautiful bungalow is now in harmony with their modern lifestyle, having been adapted and refined to usher in a new era of relaxation and inspired living.
Our Services
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Design to Renovate
Based in Franklin, Auckland but servicing the whole of New Zealand/Australasia, Design to Renovate offers a bespoke blend of services that includes interior design, conceptual design, build and architecture to full turnkey Project Management and more.
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