Upgrading a Home with a Dedicated Study Space & Updated Bathroom

Project Overview

Led by Leigh McDonald and his team at Refresh Renovations, this project aimed to reconfigure the home’s layout to accommodate a dedicated study space while also updating the bathroom for improved functionality and style. The homeowners, who work from home, required a quiet and efficient office space, while the new bathroom layout focused on enhancing natural light and ventilation.

The renovation involved moving a load-bearing wall, relocating windows, and creating a more practical layout for both the study and the bathroom. Since these structural changes required council approval, the Refresh Renovations team managed the building permit application and inspections to ensure full compliance with regulations.

With young children and pets in the household, safety was a top priority. The team carefully sectioned off the work area to prevent disruptions while maintaining a smooth renovation process.

Major Challenges

One of the biggest challenges was executing the renovation while the homeowners and their children continued living in the house. To ensure safety and minimise disruption, the team sealed off the work area, allowing the family to continue their daily routines without interference.

Another challenge was the relocation of windows and a load-bearing wall, both of which required careful engineering and council approvals. The Refresh Renovations team efficiently handled the design, permits, and engineering assessments, ensuring a smooth workflow without delays.

Budget adjustments were also necessary. Initially, the homeowners aimed to spend $50,000, but after the initial consultation and scope assessment, it became clear that additional allowances were needed for design, engineering, and council permits.

Design Highlights

The renovation focused on maximising space efficiency while ensuring a cohesive and modern design. The new study area was designed with functionality in mind, providing a quiet, organised workspace that seamlessly integrated with the existing home.

The bathroom transformation was a major highlight of the project. The layout was redesigned to keep the separate toilet while optimising space for improved usability. Strategic window relocations enhanced natural light and ventilation, creating a brighter and more inviting atmosphere. The new floor plan allowed for better movement and accessibility, making the space feel more open and comfortable.

By redefining the bedroom layout, the team successfully created a well-balanced flow throughout the house, ensuring that every area served a clear purpose without feeling cramped.

Project Execution

The project followed a structured approach to ensure smooth execution and high-quality results. The first step involved finalising the design and securing necessary council approvals for structural modifications. Once permits were in place, the team proceeded with the demolition and removal of the load-bearing wall to allow for the new layout.

Careful structural reinforcement was carried out to support the relocated walls and windows, ensuring that all changes were structurally sound and compliant with building codes. Once the framework was completed, the team moved on to plumbing and electrical installations, preparing the space for the final fit-out.

The final phase included tiling, flooring, painting, and finishing touches, bringing the new study and bathroom to life.

Key Trades Involved

A highly skilled team contributed to the success of this project, including:

• Carpenter
• Plumber
• Tiles
• Plasterer
• Painter
• Bricklayer
• Glazier
• Electrician
• Floor installer
• Demolition

Client Feedback

The homeowners were thrilled with the transformation, noting how well the new study space met their remote work needs while still blending seamlessly with the rest of the house. They were especially pleased with:

• The smart space reconfiguration, which created a functional and stylish home office
• The redesigned bathroom, which now feels more spacious, bright, and modern
• The seamless project management, which kept the renovation on track and stress-free
• The safety precautions taken, ensuring minimal disruption to their family during the renovation

Final Thoughts

Managed by Leigh McDonald and his team at Refresh Renovations, this project is a perfect example of how smart design and expert execution can completely transform a home without requiring a massive extension.

By carefully reconfiguring the layout, relocating structural elements, and optimising the use of space, the renovation delivered both functionality and style. The new study provides a dedicated home office, while the updated bathroom enhances comfort and practicality.

This renovation also highlights the importance of strategic budgeting, as the homeowners initially had a lower estimate but adjusted their budget based on expert recommendations. The final result is a well-planned and beautifully executed transformation, proving that even complex renovations can be achieved seamlessly with the right team.

If you’re considering a home renovation or space reconfiguration, get in touch with Leigh McDonald and the Refresh Renovations team today to discuss your project.