A Complete House Transformation With A New Guest Wing and Open-Plan Living

Project Overview

Led by Martin Peirone and his team at Refresh Renovations, this project was a complete home transformation, incorporating both a modern renovation of the main house and the addition of a separate guest wing. The homeowners had recently inherited the property and wanted to modernise it to start their family, which they successfully did during the renovation process.

The extension involved adding a self-contained guest wing, commonly referred to as a Granny Flat, which included a bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and living area. This provided an independent space for visiting family and friends. Simultaneously, the main house underwent extensive remodelling, with two brand-new bathrooms, an updated laundry, and a redesigned layout to create a spacious open-plan living, dining, and kitchen area. The kitchen was strategically positioned as the heart of the home, seamlessly flowing into the outdoor entertaining space.

To enhance the indoor-outdoor connection, a new patio and pergola were built, complete with a BBQ area. An additional patio was also added at the rear of the house, ensuring the home was suited for both relaxation and entertaining.

Major Challenges

One of the most significant challenges was the integration of the new flat roof with the existing pitched roof. This required close consultation with engineers, carpenters, and the project manager to determine the best approach. The structural adjustments resulted in one of the largest variations in the project but ensured a seamless and durable connection between the new and existing structures.

The planning stage also took longer than initially anticipated, causing delays before the project could commence. Once construction began, variations added 23 working days to the timeline, extending the completion date by over a month.

Design Highlights

The renovation brought a complete transformation to the home, focusing on functionality, aesthetics, and liveability. The open-plan kitchen, dining, and living area created a light-filled central space, making it the heart of the home. The removal of walls improved flow and maximised space, allowing for better interaction between indoor and outdoor areas.

The new guest wing provided an independent living space, offering comfort and privacy for visiting family members. The kitchen’s direct access to the outdoor patio and BBQ area made entertaining seamless, while the additional patio at the rear enhanced outdoor relaxation options.

Project Execution

From the initial design phase to final completion, this renovation required careful planning and expert execution. The Refresh Renovations team managed all aspects of the project, including engineering, design approvals, council consents, and construction. Since all trades were subcontracted, efficient project management was essential to keep the build on track.

Once the council approvals were secured, demolition work began, followed by the construction of the new guest wing and modifications to the main house. The kitchen and bathrooms were fitted with high-end fixtures, and extensive structural work was carried out to create the open-plan living area.

Key Trades Involved

A wide range of skilled tradespeople contributed to the success of this renovation, including:

• Carpenter
• Concreter
• Roofer
• Plasterer
• Electrician
• Plumber
• Painter
• Cover creter
• Flooring installer
• Cabinet maker

Client Feedback

The homeowners were thrilled with the outcome, particularly the modern open-plan design and the seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. They appreciated how well the project was managed, with regular updates and a structured workflow that kept them informed at every stage.

One of the most valued aspects of the renovation was the ability to monitor progress remotely. As one of the homeowners was a commercial project manager, they understood the importance of structured processes and were highly impressed with the Refresh team’s approach.

Final Thoughts

Managed by Martin Peirone and his team at Refresh Renovations, this project is a prime example of how a well-executed renovation can completely transform a home, enhancing both its functionality and aesthetic appeal. By carefully balancing design considerations with budget constraints, the project delivered a modern, open-plan living space that suited the homeowners' lifestyle while providing a separate guest wing for family and friends.

The integration of indoor and outdoor spaces through the new patio, pergola, and BBQ area added significant value to the home, making it an inviting space for entertaining and everyday living. The high-quality finishes, thoughtful design, and seamless execution ensured the renovation met the clients’ expectations, providing them with a beautiful and practical home to start their family.

If you’re considering a home transformation, get in touch with Martin Peirone and the Refresh Renovations team today to discuss your project.