Expanding & Modernising a 1950s Home for a Music-Loving Family

Project Overview

Led by Zoe Blease and her team from Refresh Renovations Manawatu, this project aimed to transform an original 1950s roughcast home into a more modern, spacious, and functional living space. The homeowners wanted to improve their home’s layout while incorporating personalised spaces, particularly a dedicated music room. Their vision included upgrading the bathroom, installing new windows, and completely revamping the kitchen to maximise storage and efficiency.

Major Challenges

Although the renovation progressed smoothly, there were some challenges along the way. As with many older homes, structural updates were required to support the modifications. The plumbing system also needed reconfiguration to accommodate the new Infinity hot water system, which replaced the old hot water cylinder.

Another challenge was incorporating all the homeowners’ design requests while maintaining a functional layout. The music room, in particular, required careful planning to ensure it provided a visually appealing space. Through collaboration and expert craftsmanship, the team successfully delivered a solution that met the homeowners' expectations without compromising the overall design.

Design Highlights

The design of this renovation focused on both aesthetics and functionality. The bathroom now features a sleek, modern shower, replacing the outdated bath and making better use of the space. The kitchen was redesigned to provide additional storage while allowing room for a full-size dishwasher, something the homeowners had been eager to include. The expanded living space allowed for a dedicated music room, and the feature wall was finished with Resene Blackcurrant paint, creating a bold and creative atmosphere.

The thoughtful design allowed more natural light to flow through while enhancing insulation. Every detail, from the new front door to the kitchen benchtop, was carefully selected to ensure a modern yet timeless appeal.

Project Execution

The renovation followed a well-structured process to ensure efficiency and high-quality results. The team worked with designers to finalise the layout before submitting the plans to the Palmerston North City Council for approval. Once permits were secured, demolition was carried out, particularly in the areas where the home was being extended.

Plumbing and electrical work followed, with careful attention to integrating the new Infinity hot water system and modern lighting features. Once the essential installations were completed, the team moved on to flooring, painting, and finishing touches. The homeowners opted for a durable and stylish sheet vinyl flooring that complemented the refreshed interior. The striking feature wall colour of the music room was a standout element, adding personality to the home while still blending seamlessly with the overall design.

Key Trades Involved

A skilled team of professionals contributed to the success of this renovation. 

• Builder
• Painter
• Plumber
• Electrician
• Gib stopper
• Joiner

Client Feedback

The homeowners were delighted with the results, particularly how the team listened to their ideas and translated them into a functional, stylish living space. They loved how the expanded layout gave them the extra room they needed while maintaining the character of their home. The kitchen, in particular, was a standout feature, with its improved storage and modern aesthetic making everyday tasks more convenient.

The music room exceeded their expectations, providing a creative retreat where they could enjoy their passion.

Final Thoughts

Managed by Zoe Blease and her team from Refresh Renovations, this project is a testament to how thoughtful design and expert execution can transform a dated home into a modern, highly functional living space. By expanding the home’s footprint and making key upgrades in the kitchen, bathroom, and living areas, the team successfully created a more practical and comfortable environment tailored to the homeowners’ lifestyle.

For those looking to modernise their home while making the most of their space, Zoe Blease and the Refresh Renovations team offer expert guidance and seamless project management. If you're considering a home renovation, get in touch today to discuss how they can help bring your vision to life.