There is more to a renovation of an older home than just updating its look, it’s about enhancing functionality while preserving charm. That was the goal of our latest renovation project in Whitford.
This charming bungalow had seen multiple additions over the years, resulting in a layout that lacked flow and cohesion. The homeowners loved their property, especially their beautifully maintained gardens, but the home itself didn’t offer full enjoyment of the property. The kitchen was very tired, living spaces disjointed and there was no real connection between the indoor and outdoor spaces.
The client vision
The owners wanted to create a home that felt like an extension of their gardens. They envisioned open-plan living spaces that flowed naturally, a refreshed kitchen and bathroom, and outdoor entertaining areas that offered functionality and enjoyment of the stunning landscape.
The Renovation Scope
To bring this vision to life, the renovation included:
An extension to improve the home’s functionality and usable space.
Modern aluminium joinery fitted throughout.
A brand-new kitchen and bathroom designed for contemporary living.
New decking to the north and south sides of the home to create inviting outdoor spaces.
A refreshed exterior that maintained the bungalow’s character while updating its aesthetic.
Design Features
This renovation was not just about modernising, it was about elevating the home’s charm while improving how it functioned. Some of our favourite features include:
A rimu feature wall was built in the entrance, setting a welcoming tone for the home’s blend of character and contemporary style.
Light-filled, open-plan living
By reconfiguring the layout, the living areas now flow beautifully, creating a seamless connection between the indoors and outdoors. Skylights bring in natural light, giving the home a lovely feeling of space and warmth.
An indoor-outdoor connection
The main living area now opens out onto a spacious deck, providing direct access to the gardens. The windows from kitchen and bathroom are met with lush greenery of the gardens, the result? A home that truly feels like you are living in the landscape!
THE CLIENT'S VERDICT
“Harrison Lane is amazing. They kept the renovation within a realistic budget but, more importantly, have an incredible team of builders who take pride in getting the design and build just right. The house now has a modern flow with the character of an old house. The main rooms open out onto new decks and the gardens connect with the house, giving us modern living within an older house that feels like you are in the garden! The reward is fantastic.”
MIKE & NICOLA – AUCKLAND
