A Hamptons-inspired makeover of this kitchen and bathroom in Titirangi, Auckland

A functionally necessary update

Trish had owned her 1950s weatherboard home in Titirangi for years and wasn’t planning to leave anytime soon. However, some of the kitchen’s built-in appliances had stopped functioning so she knew the time had come to give her beloved property an update. 
The impractical layout of Trish’s kitchen meant keeping it tidy was becoming more of a challenge, so she wanted to give the layout and design a complete overhaul. She also decided to make the most of her property becoming a construction zone and update the bathroom and laundry to achieve a more modern look.
To deliver on her vision, Trish contacted local Refresh Renovation Consultant, Fiona Fairbairn, who visited her Titirangi property to conduct an initial consultation.  

Picture-perfect design

During their briefing, Trish’s goals were clear; create a functional, modern design on a $100,000 budget. The proposed changes were significant. The existing toilet and bathroom were to be combined so all utilities, including the washer and dryer, were in one space. Removing a typical 1950s dividing wall with a serving window which created an underutilised sitting area next to the kitchen would allow for a reimagined layout and spacious kitchen. 
To stay within budget while achieving the Hamptons style Trish was after, Fiona recommended investing in a few hero pieces, such as a high-end benchtop and statement lighting. The ideation stage of a renovation can be very overwhelming and Trish was having trouble picturing the final results. Fiona produced realistic concept renderings accompanied by material samples so Trish could compare colours and textures and see the designs come to life. Once she saw the final vision, she couldn’t wait to get started. 

Design taking shape

Fiona coordinated an extensive team of contractors to execute Trish’s two-room renovation; builders, cabinet makers, painters, and tile specialists to name a few. As per the Refresh method, Fiona always remained Trish’s single point of contact so she never had to worry about ensuring contractors’ schedules lined up or when deliveries were being made —  most of which were ordered through Placemakers, PDL by Schneider, GIB, Tile Space, Clearlite, and Resene. 
A new switchboard was part of the functional upgrades to Trish’s home, but upon removing the old switchboard, the team discovered that much of the wiring needed to be replaced as it was old and dangerous. Fiona talked this through with Trish and explained that it would incur an additional cost but it was non-negotiable as it was a safety issue. Trish understood and was happy to make the additional investment. 
With the electrical work sorted, the team continued. Structural changes, installation, and finishing touches such as bespoke tiling and resurfacing of the original timber floors wrapped up Trish’s renovation at the nine-week mark, costing $104,000 — just slightly over the original $100,000.

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Bringing the Hamptons to Titirangi

The renovations may have occurred in separate areas, but the newly resurfaced timber floors encourage the Hamptons-inspired interior design to flow effortlessly from room to room. Timber is not generally a common flooring choice for bathrooms, but it suits Trish’s space beautifully. The serene colour palette — soft sage green, crisp white, and natural warmth from the striated timber — creates a relaxing atmosphere; the perfect environment for the newly built-in soaker tub. Consolidating the toilet and bathroom offered plenty of space for the tub and the shower, toilet, and concealed European laundry. 
By removing the impractical wall, the kitchen now easily accommodates a large island with seating for three, a number that mirrors the trio of statement pendant lights hanging above. The island serves multiple purposes with an abundance of concealed storage, additional bench space, and electrical outlets built in to power the small appliances housed within.

Final Thoughts

Upon Fiona’s recommendation, the quartz countertops are a showstopper and the brushed brass hardware ties the Hamptons look together. Trish is thrilled with her new space and has left a glowing review:
“I’m only now just catching up with things after the amazing journey of you making my lovely home beautiful. Thanks to you and your team, it has been an awesome journey. Your support and guidance have been invaluable in making it happen. I will highly recommend your company to friends and family. Please pass on my gratitude to all involved in the process.”

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