Whole Home Transformation for a Retirement Retreat

Project Overview

Led by Reno Specialist Leigh McDonald, his manager David Wigraft and his team at Refresh Renovations, this project was a complete home renovation, transforming an outdated unit into a modern, comfortable retreat. The homeowners had rented out the property for years while living in Country Victoria but wanted to renovate it into a home suited for their retirement, close to their children.

Initially, the clients considered demolishing the unit and building a two-storey home, but after discussions with the Refresh team, they opted for a more practical and cost-effective approach. The final plan included converting the garage into a walk-in wardrobe (WIR) and storage space, upgrading the entire unit with a new kitchen and bathroom, and building a front deck to improve outdoor living.

The project was completed in 13 weeks, exactly as planned. Despite unexpected challenges, such as security concerns in the area and budget adjustments, the renovation successfully delivered a fresh, modernised home that met both functional and aesthetic needs.

Major Challenges

One of the biggest challenges of the project was security concerns in the area. During construction, a brand-new sliding door was damaged by children throwing rocks. Fortunately, nearby residents were vigilant, and after the incident, extra security measures were put in place to ensure no further disruptions.

Budget constraints also influenced some decisions. The original plan included an en-suite as part of the garage conversion, but this was later removed to stay within budget. Instead, the space was redesigned to serve as a small study area, ensuring it remained functional and adaptable for future use.

Another challenge was managing the renovation remotely. Since homeowners lived nearly four hours away, they needed a team that could handle the entire process end-to-end.

Design Highlights

The design approach for this renovation balanced practicality with modern aesthetics. The garage-to-WIR conversion provided much-needed storage and organisation, while the new kitchen and bathroom brought a contemporary feel to the home.

The bathroom upgrade introduced modern fixtures, a spacious layout, and improved lighting, making it more comfortable and functional. The kitchen renovation followed a clean, modern design, incorporating sleek cabinetry and updated appliances to enhance usability.

One of the standout features was the new deck at the front of the property, which added a versatile outdoor space perfect for barbecues and family gatherings. The reconfiguration of door openings also improved the flow between rooms, making the home feel more spacious and connected.

Project Execution

The project was carefully planned and executed, ensuring that every stage was efficiently managed. The process began with design finalisation, engineering assessments, and permit applications for the garage conversion and deck construction.

Once the approvals were in place, the demolition phase began, removing outdated fixtures and making way for the new layout. The team then worked on structural modifications, including the garage transformation, wall relocations, and plumbing adjustments.

The electrical system was upgraded, which resulted in some additional costs but was necessary to ensure long-term safety and efficiency. The final phase focused on installing new cabinetry, flooring, and painting, bringing the entire home together with a fresh, cohesive look.

Key Trades Involved

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

• Plasterer
• Plumber
• Bricklayer
• Tiler
• Electrician
• Painter
• Cabinetmaker
• Carpet layer
• Flooring installer
• Demolition
• Glazier

Client Feedback

Homeowners were thrilled with the transformation, highlighting how well the Refresh team handled the remote project management while keeping them informed throughout the process. They particularly appreciated:

• The smooth execution of the renovation despite being four hours away.
• The smart reconfiguration of spaces, making the home more practical and modern.
• The high-quality finishes, which enhanced both aesthetics and functionality.
• The front deck addition, providing a great outdoor space for entertaining.

Final Thoughts

This project is a fantastic example of how a thoughtful renovation can completely transform a home without requiring a full rebuild.

By converting the garage into a walk-in wardrobe and storage space, redesigning the kitchen and bathroom, and adding a new outdoor deck, the renovation created a comfortable, modern living environment suited for retirement. Despite budget constraints and remote project management challenges, Leigh McDonald and his team at Refresh Renovations delivered a seamless, well-executed renovation that met the homeowners' needs.

This project highlights the value of expert planning, smart design choices, and professional project management in achieving a high-quality home transformation.

If you’re considering a whole-home renovation or a targeted transformation, get in touch with the Refresh Renovations team today to discuss your project.