A bold yet understated kitchen renovation in York Bay, Lower Hutt

A repeat renovation

Having partnered with Refresh on a previous renovation project, homeowner Lian reconnected with the Wellington team for help with their next home improvement. Last time, the team executed a roof replacement project; this time, the interior was on the docket. 

Lian was after a kitchen makeover with the overall goal of updating and modernising the space. Since Lian was familiar with the 5-step Refresh process, the next stage was the initial consultation to get the project started.

Two-part scope

In addition to sprucing up the kitchen, Lian wanted to utilise Refresh to make minor repairs to the exterior. Lower Hutt is subject to Wellington’s notoriously inclement weather, so ensuring steadfast protection of any property is a top priority. Back inside, painting a feature wall to match the fireplace was added to the scope. 

Making sure costs were kept under control was equally as important to Lian as achieving the best end result, which is why they appreciated the concept and costing phases of the Refresh process. With a clearly defined scope, it was time to create concept designs so Lian could realise their vision for the new kitchen through 3D renderings. Following this stage, the fixed-quote estimate was submitted to Lian for approval. From there, it was time to get building. 

Moving ahead with construction

In-house Project Manager Michelle took the lead over the active construction stage. Lian’s property was originally built in the 1960s. Homes of this era, in this region in particular, are especially susceptible to rot. To mitigate a surprise discovery and unexpected cost, the team proactively sought out rot; this remedial process was built into the estimate so no additional costs were incurred. 

With the rot addressed, Michelle and the team continued with demolition to prepare a blank slate. Refresh Wellington has established partnerships with local trades and suppliers which was essential on this project. The historic electrical work they uncovered could have posed 

challenges but with an experienced electrician on the team, significant delays were avoided. 

An expert team

Lian’s kitchen renovation continued to progress steadily as Michelle arranged for the window replacements, carpet removal, and fresh paint application. She worked diligently to keep everyone on schedule for an on-time delivery; there was an extensive team – including plumbers, plasterers, joinery specialists, and general contractors – on site due to the dual nature of the project scope and they worked simultaneously on the cladding and kitchen. 

Thanks to Michelle’s expert project management, Lian’s fantastic new kitchen and improved exterior were delivered on target at $113,000.

High contrast, understated style

The final design is filled with striking contrasts. Black cabinetry and white engineered stone benchtops. Organically striated native timber flooring and geometric splashback tiles. And despite all the contrasting elements, the design remains perfectly balanced. Suppliers used in this project were sourced from Refresh’s preferred partners; GIB, Mitre 10, Placemakers, and Resene.. With the finished kitchen, the entire living space appears to have been transformed. Everything feels cohesive, modern, and stylish.

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