Heritage Villa Renovation With Functional Extension And Modern Updates

Project Overview

The renovation of this 1920s character villa aimed to transform the property into a modern yet charming living space while preserving its heritage features. The client is based in Hawke’s Bay and wanted to improve the functionality of the home by opening up the living spaces to the private garden and upgrading the bathrooms to contemporary standards.

The project included a small kitchen and laundry extension, upgrading the home from three bedrooms and one bathroom to two bedrooms and two bathrooms. A heritage carport at the street end of the driveway was also considered as a potential stage two addition.

Major Challenges

Foundation Issues

During construction, unforeseen foundation complications required a mid-project pause. The team worked quickly to resolve the issues and ensured structural integrity while maintaining the project timeline.

Council Consents

As the extension required council approval, obtaining permits for the small addition posed a minor administrative challenge. The project team managed this process efficiently and ensured all regulatory requirements were met.

Design Highlights

The renovation achieved a perfect balance between modern functionality and the villa's historic charm. The extended kitchen and laundry areas were pivotal to the transformation, with the kitchen featuring a sleek breakfast bar that blends modern aesthetics with practicality, earning high praise from the project manager. The laundry joinery, designed to maximize space, showcased sharp, clean lines, combining visual appeal with practical usability in a compact setting.

Preserving the villa's character was a key focus throughout the project. Thoughtful selections of materials, color schemes, and finishes ensured the updates seamlessly integrated with the home’s original design, maintaining its timeless charm while introducing modern conveniences. The bathrooms were also completely redesigned which enhanced usability with modern fixtures and carefully chosen tiling. The result was a fresh, contemporary look that complemented the overall aesthetic while prioritizing functionality.

Project Execution

The renovation was carefully planned and executed over a six-month timeline and ensured each phase progressed smoothly despite challenges such as foundation delays and obtaining council consents. Wayne and his Refresh Renovations team worked closely with the client to manage all aspects of the project, from design to construction, maintaining clear communication throughout.

Key trades involved included:

• Builder
• Plumber
• Electrician
• Joiner
• Tiler
• Painter
• Floorboard Specialist
• Stopper and Aluminium Joiner

The Refresh Renovations team also oversaw the design process, including electrical plans and bathroom layouts, ensuring every detail aligned with the client’s vision. 

Client Feedback

The client expressed her delight with the renovation, commending Refresh Renovations for their professionalism and excellent communication throughout the process. She appreciated the team’s ability to work within her budget, adapt to her demanding schedule, and manage every detail from start to finish. 

The client also highlighted the skill and dedication of the tradespeople involved, who delivered high-quality results, particularly in transforming the bathroom and laundry into functional and stylish spaces. Client’s glowing feedback underscored her confidence in Refresh Renovations’ ability to handle complex projects with efficiency and care, making the entire experience stress-free and exceeding her expectations.

Final Thoughts

The renovation of this 1920s villa successfully balanced heritage charm with modern functionality. From the stylish breakfast bar to the sharp laundry joinery, every detail was carefully crafted to meet the client’s vision. Despite challenges, including foundation delays and council consents, the project was completed on time and on budget.

So are you looking to transform your home? Get in touch with our experts for a free consultation.