A Cosmetic Update For An Inner-city Apartment In Queenstown

The owners of this inner-city apartment in Queenstown sought a cosmetic refresh to elevate their property’s appeal as a popular lakeside holiday rental. With the space showing signs of wear, the goal was a contemporary update that maintained a welcoming and warm aesthetic. The renovation included a complete bathroom overhaul, new flooring, interior and exterior repainting, and an upgraded fire safety system to ensure compliance with current standards.

The clients, based out of town, required a trusted team to manage the renovation in their absence. Refresh Renovations team led by Kathleen Magon, took on the project, overseeing every detail from design to execution.

Major Challenges

Access Constraints

Being located in Queenstown’s busy town center, access to the apartment was a challenge. The building’s position above several businesses made transporting materials and waste disposal complex. Temporary parking permits and skip bin restrictions imposed by the district council required meticulous planning and coordination.

Waste Management

Due to council regulations, skip bins were only allowed on-site for limited durations, necessitating additional labor and transport for waste management. The team adapted by scheduling skips during high-waste periods, such as demolition and final fit-out stages.

Plumbing Complications

The bathroom renovation faced an unexpected hurdle with the plumbing waste system, which required changing the toilet and shower tray layout. To avoid disrupting businesses below, adjustments were made to maintain the timeline and avoid costly structural changes.

Design Highlights

The renovation transformed the apartment into a fresh and contemporary retreat, balancing style, durability, and functionality. A standout feature was the bathroom redesign, inspired by the clients’ mood boards. The flooring update was another significant highlight. A single hard flooring material, Neptune, was used across the kitchen, entryway, and bathroom. 

The stone-based rigid core product is not only 100% waterproof but also sound-absorbing, providing comfort and durability. The apartment’s interior and deck repainting brought a rejuvenated look to the space. Also, an upgraded fire safety system ensured compliance with current safety standards, creating a safe and welcoming environment for guests.

Project Execution

The renovation was meticulously planned over a seven-week timeline. Despite challenges such as plumbing adjustments and material coordination, the project was completed on time and ready for guests before the ski season.

Key trades involved included:

• Builder
• Plumber
• Electrician
• Painter
• Flooring Installer
• Fire Systems Installer
• Handyman
• Glazier

The Refresh Renovations team also managed the design, including electrical plans and bathroom layouts. The clients’ input, including mood boards, guided the aesthetic choices while balancing practical considerations like durability and ease of maintenance.

Client Feedback

The property owners were delighted with the results, expressing gratitude for the seamless execution and professional management. They praised the team for their problem-solving skills and ability to adapt to unforeseen challenges, particularly regarding the plumbing and council regulations. “Thanks very much for getting this all finished and fitting it in; it was seamless for us!” they shared.

Final Thoughts

The inner-city apartment was transformed into a warm, contemporary retreat, combining practical updates with aesthetic enhancements. The use of cohesive materials, like the Neptune flooring, and a focus on durability ensured the space would remain inviting for years to come. The project exemplifies how a well-executed renovation can elevate the value and functionality of a property, meeting both owner and guest expectations.

Would you like to discuss your home renovation ideas? Get in touch for a free consultation with your local Refresh Renovations Consultant.