Light and bright townhouse renovation

ARTICLE Katie Newton, PHOTOGRAPHY Scott Espie

From the time they purchased their townhouse in the Auckland suburb of Epsom two years ago, owners Christine and Roger Donovan had planned to do it up. And now, after six months of renovations, they’re thoroughly enjoying the stunning results. 

Cold and dark 

When they bought it the house was poorly insulated, the kitchen and bathroom were in need of modernisation, and the whole place needed a light, bright touch. One of the first jobs was to remove an interior wall between the kitchen and dining room to open up the small, dark kitchen, and remove a separate toilet and add it to the main bathroom to create some much-needed space. Insulation was installed throughout the house in the form of Green Batts, and double-glazed windows and long drapes were added to retain heat more efficiently.  
The spacious new kitchen, designed by Anita Maes from Bella Cassita, has been fitted out with sleek white cabinetry by Central Joinery. Oversized Spanish tiles in pale grey (Mythos Gris) from Mobile Ceramics have been laid in both the kitchen and bathroom, and a glass splash back has been added behind the hob. Stainless steel appliances and a built in overhead extractor fan complete the practical yet stylish design. Christine says the kitchen is her favourite part of the whole renovation as “it is a dream to work in.”

Elegantly tiled

This calming palette of white and pale grey continues in the bathroom, which is tiled from floor to ceiling. A glass walled shower, bath and modern vanity have been installed. White wooden shutters have been added to the windows, and a crystal doorknob completes the classic, elegant look. 
All the internal doors and wardrobes have been replaced, and the walls have been painted Resene’s Thorndon Cream. Christine chose the complementary pale curtains from a selection provided by interior designer Sarah Kerr and new 100% wool carpet by Godfrey Hirst was laid for warmth and comfort. 

A dramatic change

Throughout the process Christine says builder Sean Brown kept her well informed about progress, and took the time to discuss any challenges and solutions he had for them. “We found him to be very approachable and he answered all of our questions along the way,” she says. Brown now works with Refresh Renovations Specialist John Martin. 
And even after the dramatic overhaul the property has undergone, Christine says she is happy with every detail. “We wouldn’t do anything differently if we had to do it again,” she says. “The renovations have made an amazing difference.”  
The focus of Refresh Renovations is on delivering excellent customer service and value by incorporating design and using world class systems and processes. If you're thinking of renovating or looking for a builder, talk to Refresh at +64 9 33 60 33 or enquire online.
You might be interested in how much does a basic kitchen renovation cost in New Zealand?

This column by Katie Newton featured on page 059 in Issue 008 of Renovate Magazine. Renovate Magazine is an easy to use resource providing fresh inspiration and motivation at every turn of the page.

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