Transforming a Cramped Kitchen into a Functional Space in Ellerslie, Auckland

Big Hopes For a Tiny, Tired Space

When Ellerslie homeowner Yan approached Refresh Renovation Consultants John and Maree de Latour, having a newborn baby underpinned his need for an efficient, stress-free renovation. 
The kitchen in the home of these new parents was less than functional: the fridge was outside the kitchen space and the built-in pantry was squeezed into a corner, making many essentials difficult to find. Furthermore, the laminate floors were water damaged and needed replacing. Yan was also keen to achieve a more modern look for the space.
It can be challenging to create a feeling of spaciousness without extending the dimensions of a room, particularly when a tight budget is thrown into the mix. But John and Maree were up to the task, having garnered a strong understanding of Yan’s vision. 

Budget Awareness

When discussing the design concept plans, it became clear that demolishing a partition separating the fridge from the kitchen area would improve functionality. Although Yan had said his maximum budget for the project was $30,000, he agreed that removing the wall would be worth the extra costs involved.  
With the new design confirmed, working drawings developed, and a cost of $34,000 finalised, Yan was excited to give the go-ahead. John and Maree’s network of contractors then swung into action. The tradespeople were conscious of the difficulty the family would be facing without a kitchen – particularly with a newborn in the home – so they worked as quickly and efficiently as possible.

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A More Thoughtful Layout 

Thanks to clever design, the kitchen is now chic, light, and much easier to work in. With the partition removed, the fridge is now within the kitchen area, improving the functionality of this integral space within the home. Ceiling-height cabinetry has filled previously wasted wall space, and the bench area has been extended. Handleless drawers and cupboards throughout have cemented the clutter-free look and ensured a sleek and elegant finish. 
The addition of a dishwasher and installation of an undermount sink have also allowed for more food preparation space. Easy cooking has been prioritised with floating corner shelves next to the stovetop creating a convenient storage space for oils and spices.  

Economic Luxury

A tight budget doesn’t equate to a cheap aesthetic. John and Maree have ensured the final look of Yan’s Ellerslie kitchen is elegant and timeless. The marble-look laminate benchtop and white subway wall tiles provide a luxe finish, the newly tiled floor is watertight and easy to clean, and the wooden trim around the cabinetry adds a natural feature to the design. 
The transparency of the Refresh Process enabled the new parents to achieve a completely refurbished kitchen within budget. Not exceeding $34,000 was crucial to Yan, and with John and Maree overseeing and organising every last detail of the renovation, that goal was met. In fact, the project was completed at $70 under the figure, totalling $33,931.
After just a four-week build stage, the homeowners were able to enjoy the space with their new bundle of joy – the quick turnaround taking a weight off their shoulders.

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