Preserving the Past for a Functional Future in Te Awamutu, Waikato

A Special Project

Anne and Richard were married in the garden of this 1950s Te Awamutu home when their friends owned it. So, when the property came on the market, the couple didn’t hesitate to snap it up - even though its interior needed significant renovation.
Three areas were of particular concern. The lounge afforded a lovely view of the garden that held so many special memories, but its old windows and doors were an eyesore; the internal staircase to the garage was dangerously steep and rarely used; and the couple also wanted to address the bathrooms and laundry area which had fallen into disrepair. 
Anne and Richard had tried their hand at renovating previously but, with busy lives, weren’t keen to repeat the experience. So, they reached out to Refresh for professional project management and advice. 

Defining the Scope

During discussions with Waikato Renovation Consultants Lawrie and Mandy Foster, the couple identified their priorities. Richard spends a lot of time in the garage so for him, an improvement there was non-negotiable; Anne’s must-have was a bathroom sanctuary; and for the two of them, budget and design were equally as important.
With a full understanding of what Anne and Richard wanted, Lawrie and Mandy proceeded to the design and planning stage, in which the full scope of the project was clearly defined — a complete update of the bathroom, laundry and separate toilet, alterations to the garage and stairwell, and the installation of new French doors in the lounge. 

Overcoming Obstacles During Construction

After Anne and Richard signed off on the plans, construction was ready to begin. Lawrie and Mandy anticipated the full project would be completed in eight weeks. However, midway through construction, Anne and Richard opted to make some significant changes, aware of the additional costs that would result. 
Lawrie and Mandy responded promptly to these changes, one of which was to the stairwell. However, the unusual angles caused by the stairs also meant changes to the bathroom renovation so Lawrie and Mandy’s in-house designer created a bespoke 1950s design that Anne loved. 
Once the new plans were finalised, the architect and engineer had to submit an amendment to the council for additional consent which put the project on hold. Then, two Covid lockdowns further delayed the end date. 
Once the project resumed, Lawrie and Mandy delivered the finished product as soon as possible. The final cost of the renovation, alterations included, came to $145,000.   

Bold Yet Relaxing Bathroom Design

The bathroom layout is unconventional, but it works! Fitting snugly without feeling cramped and delineated by a glass divider, the shower tucks into an otherwise awkward corner to make the best use of the space.
Bold tile work is a standout feature of the bathroom’s design. Oceanic shades go from the ceiling to the floor where they meet the sand-coloured, mosaic-look tiles, blending to create the relaxing sanctuary vibe Anne was after. 
Behind the large soaker tub, a combination of blue and white tiles provides a high-contrast design choice. In keeping with the natural tones of the bathroom, a large timber double vanity adds to the aura of serenity and relaxation.  

Final Thoughts

For Anne and Richard, renovating their home has made an enormous impact on their lives, and they’re thrilled with the results. Integrating the new laundry with a tangerine accent wall, building a safe stairwell, and updating the separate toilet were practical changes that needed to happen. And, while those renovations were key, Anne particularly loves her bathroom sanctuary, and Richard is ecstatic with his updated garage.

Would you like to discuss your home renovation ideas?

Get in touch for a free consultation with your local Renovation Consultant.