Spacious Entertainment and Games Room Extension in Lysterfield, Knox, Victoria

When a prospective client asked Paul Cree of Refresh Renovations in Kew, Melbourne if he could extend their 20 year old suburban home to add a light and airy entertainment and games room in the space of an existing carport and shed, Paul’s answer was: ‘Of course I can.’
Paul and his Construction Manager, Tas, then set to work planning the renovation, which included demolishing the existing the carport and shed and building a 90m2 warm, light-filled extension with direct access to the garage and garden. The brief also included ensuring the extension was well connected to the main part of the home, which entailed opening up the existing house and building a new hallway in space created by relocating a shower room to the new addition.
Paul’s client wanted to avoid an obvious looking extension to the property and asked him to ensure the house looked seamless on the exterior. So Paul sourced brick veneer and roof tiles that matched those of the existing home to fulfil this part of the brief.

Carrying out the house renovation

The 14-week build was satisfying but challenging, according to Paul. For example, the build zone was flanked by other buildings and/or high retaining walls so bringing light into the new space was a priority.
Paul’s solution was to incorporate high ceilings, which allowed the installation of high-level windows above the level of the retaining wall, along with glass doors to the garden. Oversized timber and glass panel doors within the extension help keep it as light as possible. Paul also installed large wirelessly controlled Velux Skylights to help illuminate the space even on dull days.

Noise-proofing 

‘The Velux Skylights really bring a wow factor to the room. They’re fitted with solar-powered remotely operated blinds, which are a fantastic practical feature,’ he says.
To help contain noise created in the new entertainment area and stop it travelling to other areas of the home, Paul installed acoustic insulation batts in every wall.
High-quality vinyl flooring also helps minimise noise levels and is a good-looking, hardwearing choice for an area where there’s likely to be a lot of foot traffic.

‘Karndean Luxury Vinyl Flooring was installed. It’s very practical, but it’s also really hard to tell it’s not wood,’ says Paul. 
The natural tones and texture of the timber effect flooring are complemented by a contemporary feature wall clad in stone effect tiles. The wall houses a large screen as well as a double-sided Escea Gas Fireplace, which warms and adorns the space.
The luxe features continue in the sophisticated neutral-hued bathroom where timber cabinetry and oversized ceramic wall and floor tiles are complemented by contemporary white bathroom ware. Geometric patterned tiles in the shower area provide a touch of whimsy and character to an otherwise classic space.  

The benefits of working with a Refresh Renovations franchise

Looking back on a project that created a seamless new addition to an existing family home, Paul says it made sense for his client to work with the Refresh project management and renovation team.
‘The homeowner didn’t have to worry about the quality of construction or overseeing different trades. We worked with the designer to make sure everything complied with planning rules and made sure that the build met code and all the required regulations.’
He says working with a project manager can help less experienced renovators stay on track.
‘Having a good project manager helps avoid rework, which means you’re more likely to stick to schedule and stay within your budget. It can really help take the stress out of renovating.’

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