Renovate Handbook Issue 31

ISSUE 31

$9.95 incl GST

INSIDE

PEOPLE’S

CHOICE

AWARDS

Best projects that

you voted for

Relax and let Refresh take

care of your renovation

Project by Refresh Renovations

Home Renovation Specialist

Refresh is the world's leading builder that specialises in

renovations. Working with Refresh, you can be assured that

your renovation will be cost-effective and hassle free.

ISSUE 031

As a design and build specialist, we make things easy by

being your one point of contact for the entire renovation

process. We have the designers, builders and sub-trades to

complete the job on time, on budget and to a high standard.

We work with you, within your budget to design and deliver

the home you want.

www.refreshrenovations.com.au

www.refreshrenovations.co.uk

www.refreshrenovations.co.nz

www.refreshrenovations.com

The practical guide to renovating

Contents

Planning

Kitchen

Bathroom

People's

choice awards

Before

and afters

Living

spaces

Outdoor

living

Inspirational

homes

6 Planning your

renovation

18 Kitchen

checklist

30 Bathroom

checklist

42 Kitchen of

the Year

67 Open-plan

transformation

74 Living checklist

92 Outdoor

checklist

111 Clarksville’s

mullet house

8 Most popular

renovations

9 Renovation

trends

10 Budgeting

statistics

11 Top tips for

renovating

12 Applying for

consent

14 Home

renovation

inspiration

20 Kitchen

layout

23 Butler’s

pantries

25 How to make

the most of a

compact

kitchen

26 Kitchen

FAQs:

Ask our

experts

32 Measure me

right: Bathroom

measurements

34 Bathroom

FAQs:

Ask our

experts

37 How to solve

unequal water

pressure

39 What is a

wet room?

46 Bathroom of

the Year

50 Conversion of

the Year

52 Extension of

the Year

55 Exterior of

the Year

56 Outdoor Projects

of the Year

62 Whole House of

the Year

68 Kitchen

transformation

69 Apartment

kitchen

transformation

70 A Pensacola

bathroom

transformation

71 A bold and

elegant

bathroom

transformation

76 Basement and

loft conversions

78 Clever storage

tricks

81 Extending your

home

84 Is open-plan

right for you?

86 Converting your

home garage to

a living space

89 Indoor outdoor

flow ideas

94 Xeriscapes

96 Paving solutions

for your home

98 Ask our experts

100 Edible gardens

102 Outdoor rooms

105 How to save

water during

summer

106 Artificial or real

grass?

- From movie

set to stylish

mullet house,

check out this

six year

renovation in

Clarksville.

115 Brooklyn

townhouse

- A complete

renovation of a

Park Slope

townhouse in

Brooklyn,

New York.

05 17 29 40 66 73 91 109

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Planning

So, you’ve decided to renovate -

congratulations! A great journey is

about to begin. Before you start, we

think you should get to know the

basics. The following pages have been

designed to support you in confidently

planning your renovation.

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Planning your

renovation

PLANNING

Knowing how to plan a renovation, and understanding what process to

follow, can have a huge impact on the final result of your project. Doing your

research and knowing what to expect is key to getting the renovation you

want. The following steps will help to keep your project on track.

1

2

3

4

6

CONSIDER WHY YOU

WANT TO RENOVATE

Understanding the motivation

behind your renovation is

essential to getting your desired

result. Do you require more space

for a growing family? If so, an

extension and room addition may

be the main focus of your project.

Is your home looking tired and

dated? In this case, you will need

to pinpoint what areas of your

home require particular attention.

Perhaps you want to improve your

home’s energy efficiency or even

invest in a luxury renovation?

Throughout this guide, you’ll find

multiple renovation checklists

designed to support you in

identifying your renovation

priorities.

DO YOUR RESEARCH

Once you know what type of

work will be involved in your

home renovation, start looking at

examples of the work you want

to be done. Most renovation

companies will provide examples

of past work and case studies on

their website. Take note of what

you do and don’t like about the

projects you see. Keep copies of

any pictures that could provide

your designer with useful examples

of what you like. This is also a

good time to begin familiarizing

yourself with the costs, consents

and processes involved in carrying

out your project ideas to a high

standard. If this all seems a bit

overwhelming at first, don’t worry;

there are plenty of renovation

experts out there who can offer

advice and guidance.

CONTACT A RENOVATION

COMPANY

Seeking out examples of local

renovations should lead you to

the websites of a few different

renovation companies. Look at

their portfolios - are you satisfied

with their standards? Do they

offer the type of services you are

after? Some companies might only

provide design or construction

services while others provide an

end-to-end renovation service.

Check out their customer

testimonials to ensure they are

a business you would want to

work with. Once you have found

a company that you are satisfied

with, get in touch.

BOOK A CONSULTATION

When you have found a company

you are interested in, book a

consultation with them. This

will be an opportunity for them

to come to the project site and

discuss your ideas. A good

renovation consultant should be

able to provide you with useful

advice on your project and will

tell you whether or not your ideas

are feasible. Moving forward,

they should be able to advise you

on what council and building

requirements you need to be aware

of, what costs will be involved and

any other important information

relevant to your project. Even

if you are opting for the DIY

route, meeting with a renovation

consultant could prove to be hugely

beneficial.

5DECIDE WHO WILL

MANAGE THE PROJECT

The next step is to decide on

whether you will manage the

project yourself or hire a project

manager. Unless you have a

significant amount of time

available and building knowledge,

managing the project yourself

could prove to be a stressful and

expensive process. Managing

multiple trades without the

experience to do so can lead

to miscommunication, project

schedules being extended and

much more money being spent

than originally estimated. If you

don’t have much knowledge in

the renovation sector, hiring a

project manager could make the

experience far more enjoyable and

cost-effective.

BEGIN THE DECISION

MAKING PROCESS

Probably the most difficult

point in a renovation - making

decisions. Now that you have

selected a renovation builder,

your concept will be discussed in

more depth. Concept drawings

will be drawn up along with cost

estimates. This is the time to

make any adjustments to your

project so that it meets both

your budget, taste and priorities.

When you are happy with the

concept, design and quote; you

can begin looking at signing

building contracts. Depending

on the size of your renovation,

this is also a good time to discuss

whether or not you will remain at

home during the build or will find

temporary accommodation.

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Most popular

renovations

Renovation

trends

PLANNING

A survey produced by Refresh Renovations asked participants what area of

the home they were likely to renovate first. Kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms,

laundries and living rooms were at the top of the list - here’s why.

From kitchen extensions to COVID-19 renovations, take a look

at what Houzz and Modernize’s recent surveys have discovered

about renovation trends in your part of the world.

7.2%

6.9%

19.2%

KITCHENS

BATHROOMS

BEDROOMS

LAUNDRIES

LIVING ROOMS

33%

NEW ZEALAND

Of New Zealand homeowners

consider health concerns to be

“very or extremely important to

their project”.

83%

AUSTRALIA

Of renovating Australian

homeowners were able to continue

on with their home renovation

when the COVID-19 pandemic was

declared in March 2020.

8.3%

14.9%

45%


are opting to renovate rather

than buy a new home.

22%

Of Australian homeowners found

that integrating “green” materials

was a high priority.

KITCHENS

While open-plan kitchens have been the trend for years

now, homeowners are starting to move toward more

multi-functional kitchens and living spaces that can be

opened up and closed off as needed. This is particularly

true for young families who have been spending more

time at home during 2020 and need their own designated

spaces for homeschooling, relaxing and dining etc. If

you are interested in creating a kitchen that can be both

open-plan and closed off, cavity sliding doors can provide

a simple solution.

BATHROOMS

As one of the most used rooms of the house, it should

come as no surprise that bathrooms are one of the most

frequently renovated spaces. Modern bathroom designs

are typically the go-to for renovating homeowners. In

terms of colour palettes, homeowners are choosing to

keep things simple with light colour palettes and dark

accents. Walk-in/wet room style showers are also hugely

popular at the moment and are a great future-proofing

option.

BEDROOMS

Whether you are renovating an existing bedroom or

adding an additional bedroom to your property, this

room, in particular, should feel like a private haven.

Often, bedroom renovations are carried out as part of

an extension project that will allow a home to cater for

a growing family or any long-term guests. These types of

projects commonly include ensuite additions and/or walkin

wardrobe additions.

LAUNDRIES

There are many ways to design and build a laundry within

a set budget. Some homeowners simply include this within

a garage conversion project, others extend, and some

carry out bathroom-to-laundry conversions. You might

even be able to fit a hidden laundry underneath your

home’s staircase!

LIVING ROOMS

Living rooms around the world are currently heavily

influenced by Scandinavian design. This minimalistic

style typically features simple colour schemes of light

walls, wooden floors and a focus on quality over quantity.

One of the benefits of this style is that it provides

a simple base for plenty of ongoing personalisation

through interior design.

27%

16%

46%

51%


choosing to update the style of

their kitchen opt for a modern/

contemporary style.

UNITED KINGDOM

Of UK homeowners begin a

renovation due to recently

discovered deterioration/

damage.

Of UK homeowners

exceed their renovation

budgets.

Of those surveyed worked

on a renovation project in

2019.

30%

28%

24%

39%

Of Australian homeowners

want to renovate their outdoor

areas, 26% want to renovate their

kitchens and 24% would most

like to renovate their bathrooms

UNITED STATES

Of US homeowners are interested

in beginning exterior home

renovation projects.

Of US homeowners choose

to renovate so that they can

customise a recently purchased

home.

Of US homeowners pay for their

renovations in cash, 26% pay via

finance/loans, 17% pay with their

credit cards and 18% pay with

alternative means e.g. payment plans.

Modernize: 2020 Weathering the Off-Season Study

Houzz: Home Renovation Trends Study 2016-2020

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Budgeting

statistics

Top tips for

renovating

PLANNING

Award-winning renovation company Refresh Renovations recently

asked over 400 people what their biggest renovation fears were.

Unsurprisingly, sticking to a budget was at the top of the list.

Is fear of going over-budget holding you back from getting the ball

rolling with your renovation ideas? Check out these solutions on

how to stick to your renovation budget.

2%

3%

6%

Of respondents were

concerned about the mess that

comes with a home renovation

project e.g. the dust and

demolition debris commonly

found on construction sites.

Were, understandably,

worried that they would

make mistakes during their

renovation project. Usually,

this comes down to a lack of

experience.

Of those surveyed said that

their biggest renovation fears

involved finding unexpected

surprises such as asbestos, rot

or structural damage.

PRIORITISE

Understand your

objectives – be clear

about what you want to

achieve and why.

MAKE A PLAN

Focus on planning – break

the project down into

achievable milestones.

STICK TO A BUDGET

Avoid budget creep,

allowing the project to grow

as it progresses can cause

the budget to escalate and

the schedule to overrun.

7.4% 7.6% 9%

Felt uneasy about their

ability to find tradesmen who

would provide high-quality

workmanship. A fear of having

to coordinate trades was also

noted.

Were worried about running

over their estimated timeline,

as it typically causes

homeowners to spend more

than they originally budgeted

for. This is often due to poor

project management.

Of respondents were

concerned that they didn’t

have enough knowledge of the

industry, trends, or project

management skills to be able

to renovate their own home

successfully.

FUTURE PROOF

It’s good practice to include

a contingency plan -

possibly around 15% of the

total budget - to cater for

unforseen costs.

DEADLINES

Draw up a schedule –

an accurate schedule

with a clear deadline for

completion is essential.

COST EFFICIENCY

Manage your finances -

you’ll need to ensure that

you can meet the agreed

payment schedule.

9%

12.8%

30.6%

Of respondents were most

afraid that when the project

was completed, they would be

unhappy with the final result,

it wouldn’t live up to their

expectations or would turn out

worse than before they started.

Of respondents said that the

general cost of renovating

was their biggest fear. It is

common knowledge that

renovations can be expensive

even when everything goes to

plan.

Of respondents revealed their

biggest fear was encountering

unforeseen costs that were

not included in the initial

costing, resulting in the budget

spiralling out of control and

unfinished renovations.

COMMIT TO PLAN

Stick to the plan - changing

your mind during the project

is guaranteed to blow the

budget.

FLEXIBILITY

Expect the unexpected. Even

with the most meticulous

planning, there is still a

chance that something

unexpected might occur.

COMPROMISE

Agree on realistic

specifications, avoid the

temptation to splurge on

luxury items that add little

value.

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PLANNING

Applying for consent

Resource consent, planning permission, building

consent...what do they all mean and will they be

required for your renovation? Learn the basics here.

One of the most complicated, yet

essential, stages of any renovation

project is applying for local consents and

permits. Go without, and you will not

only be risking fines and penalties, you

could also be risking the safety of your

household. Applying for local permission

can be a costly, time consuming and

detailed process. Unless you have a solid

understanding of the laws and regulations

surrounding your project, it is well worth

getting some support from a reputable

design and build company.

NEW ZEALAND

All New Zealand home renovations

must meet Building Code requirements.

Additionally, your project may require

Building Consent and/or Resource

Consent. Before you begin any work, it’s

important to check with your local council

and/or an expert (such as a specialist,

registered Architect, Town Planner or a

licensed building practitioner).

Works that commonly require

consent include:

• Structural work e.g. additions/

alterations

• New plumbing and drainage

• Wood burner

• Retaining walls over 1.5 metres in

height

• Fences or walls over 2.5 metres

• Swimming pool fences

• Large sheds over 30m2

• Specific earthworks

• Heritage-listed building renovations

AUSTRALIA

One of the first things you will need

to do when renovating in Australia is

find out whether or not your project

will require Planning Consent, Building

Consent and/or Land Division Consent.

All renovation work must be carried out

in accordance with the Building Code of

Australia. If you’re unsure of whether or

not your project will require approval, it’s

best to check with an expert.

Projects commonly requiring

consent include:

• Demolition

• Subdivision

• Construction

• Earthworks

• Land-use changes

• Home extensions

• Home additions

• Interior/exterior structural work

• Heritage-listed building renovations

• Land divisions

• Renovations that effect boundary lines

• Renovations that influence fire safety

• Renovations that may affect your

home’s energy efficiency

UNITED KINGDOM

It’s important to be thorough when it

comes to meeting your local Planning

Permission requirements, as different

areas may have different requirements.

Contacting your Local Planning

Authority (LPA) is recommended, as they

can advise you on the approval process

which will be relevant to your project.

Your project may require Planning

Permission and/or Building Regulations

Approval. Alternatively, you may need to

obtain a lawful development certificate.

Projects that commonly require

Planning Permission and/or Building

Regulations Approval include:

• Listed-building renovations

• Extensions/additions

• Construction work

• Plumbing

• Door and window replacements

• Roof covering replacements

• Building use changes

UNITED STATES

In the United States, building

regulations depend on your State,

and in some cases, city or county

zones may have different permit

regulations, so it’s important to discuss

your plans with a local renovation

consultant or a licensed contractor.

You should generally contact your local

Development Services Planner who will

advise you on your zoning and future

land use category. It is also important

to understand your flood plain

designation, which identifies any flood

hazard areas.

In the US, you generally will need to

apply for individual permits for each

service. This might include a building

permit, an electrical permit, a plumbing

permit, a gas permit or even a lawn

sprinkler permit. Once your renovation

is complete, it’s important to keep

copies of these permits for insurance

purposes. Generally, you won’t need

a permit if you are completing

minor work (tiling, new cabinets,

counters, etc) within your home. It is

when the changes within your home

require structural, electrical, gas or

plumbing work that a permit will be

required. It’s always best to check

with a local renovation specialist, as

carrying out work without the proper

consents can lead to penalties, fines

and unfinished work. If your home

is heritage-listed or is located within

a conservation area, you will need

to apply for permission to carry out

changes on the house.

For further guidance, please consult

your local specialist or Development

Services Planner.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Applications should be filled

out by someone who thoroughly

understands your project, your

region’s building regulations and

has experience in completing any

applications relevant to your region.

Until you have the relevant consents,

you generally won’t be able to begin

any renovation work.

As regulations within different states

and countries vary, your first step

should always be to seek advice from

a trusted renovation/landscaping

consultant or to get in touch

with your local council for more

information.

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PLANNING

HOME IDEAS

Sources of renovation inspiration brought to you

by Home Ideas Centre Auckland. Visit www.homeideas.co.nz

Home renovation

inspiration

Personalising your home generally begins with a collection of images,

ideas and creative input. Try out these resources if you’re in the

process of figuring out your style, layout and product preferences.

EXPLORE PINTEREST

For many, Pinterest is the online space where interior

design wishlists begin. The image sharing site allows

you to explore endless home design photos and save

them to an online image board. A site like this is a great

place to start if you’re only just beginning to develop

your home design ideas. Once you’ve built up a sizable

image collection, go through each image and try to

recognise what it is that attracts you to each interior or

exterior space. Is it the style, the colours, the furniture

or something else? Take note of what aspects you would

like to replicate within your own home.

FIGURE OUT YOUR STYLE

A quick search of “interior design styles” on Google will

quickly lead you to a variety of interior design options.

Try to discern what styles draw you in and why - do you

like the idea of a clean, minimalistic style home? Perhaps

a rustic, country theme is more you or, alternatively,

an interior that has more of an industrial edge?

Scandinavian design is hugely popular at the moment

as it focuses on creating peaceful, natural settings

that leave plenty of room for ongoing personalisation.

Understanding your style will help your designer to know

what angle to take as they draw up your project.

VISIT YOUR LOCAL SHOWROOM

Design showrooms are an excellent way to see products

in-person. They allow you to examine products up-close

and, in the process, determine whether or not they will

be a good fit for your style and home environment.

The Home Ideas Centre is a New Zealand-based

3000 m2 design showroom that displays design and

build products from a wide range of New Zealand

manufacturers. Every country will have its own version

of this, allowing you to explore a vast array of interior

and exterior design options ranging from swimming

pools to kitchen benchtops.

LOOK AT LOCAL PROJECTS

When you have a vague idea of what you are looking

for in your home design, start looking up designers or

renovation companies who have a proven record of

completing your style of renovation. Scroll through their

online portfolios, read through their case studies and

take note of the materials and design aspects that seem

both practical and aesthetically pleasing to you.

TALK TO A DESIGNER

Once you have scrolled through a few local home design

websites, consider reaching out to the ones that stand

out to you as being professional and experienced in

your specific area of interest. If this is your first home

renovation, you might want to work with a company that

can provide end-to-end support, from design through

to project completion. When you meet with a local

renovation specialist, show them your ideas and see

if they seem like someone that you would like to work

with (and invite into your home) long-term. A home

renovation is a personal project and a considerable

investment, so keep looking until you find the right fit.

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We have everything you need

to freshen up your home

Kitchen

As one of the most used rooms in the

home, it’s important to design this space to

suit your lifestyle needs. Use our kitchen

planning checklist to get started, see our

expert’s answers to your FAQs and draw

inspiration from our award-winning

kitchen designs!

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Kitchen checklist

Out of the following, what features are important to you and your home?

DESIGN, STYLE + LAYOUT

Breakfast bar or kitchen island

False ceiling

Natural light

General lighting

Good task lighting

Eating area or ability to sit at the benchtop

Optimise kitchen view/outlook

Luxury countertops

Accent pieces

Rustic elements

STORAGE + CABINETRY

Appliance cupboard

Space for special appliances

Waste disposal unit

Built-in rubbish bin or recycling bins

New cupboards or new doors and handles

Touch technology cabinetry

Butler’s pantry

Lots of easy-access drawers or pull outs

Display shelves

Cabinet for bottles, herbs and spices

Cabinets for kitchen utensils, accessories, cutlery and dinnerware

Cabinet for baking utensils

Cabinet for cleaning products

Rotating corner cupboard shelving

APPLIANCES

Dishwasher

A wall oven or all in one stove

Microwave and grill oven

Ventilation

Fridge and freezer

Beer and wine fridge

FINISHINGS

New sink or double sink

New tap - pull out faucet for rinsing

Water filter

Power points

Wiring for TV or Internet

Wall finish

Non-slip flooring

Kitchen window treatment - blinds/curtains

Splashback

Benchtops - laminate, marble, wood, granite or concrete

Key things to consider

• What is the end goal of the kitchen renovation?

• Have you determined your budget?

• What works in the existing space and, could those

features be incorporated into the new design?

• Who does the cooking? Just one cook or the whole

family?

• How is the kitchen used? Just for cooking, sitting

or entertaining too?

• How much storage is needed?

• What style do you like - modern, traditional,

rustic...?

• Where will you cook during the renovation?

• Have you considered future-proofing your kitchen,

for retirement or other stages of life?

KITCHEN

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Kitchen layout

Items related to a specific task area should be placed within arm’s reach. Ideally, you want to

think about creating a triangle between the sink, stove and fridge. This easily connects your

kitchen work spaces - resulting in a functional kitchen layout.

Today, a functional kitchen is determined by the workflow -

the proximity and sequence of the key work stations or zones

make cooking a delight and easy for more than one chef.

KITCHEN

IMAGE Blum New Zealand

SOCIALISING ZONE

CONSUMABLES ZONE

NON-CONSUMABLES ZONE

Kitchen islands provide a central

location to socialise while you cook

Bi-fold windows can be used to connect

the indoor kitchen space to outdoor

entertaining spaces

Store groceries, including fridge items

and frozen edibles

An ideal space for your pantry

Focus on layers of easy to access storage

Dinnerware and cutlery

Glass and serveware

Containers and lids for food storage

PREPARATION ZONE

Preparation implements for slicing,

dicing, mashing and mixing

Store mixing bowls, knives, boards

and other preparation appliances

Oils, spices and herbs should be

stored within fit-for-purpose drawers

CLEANING ZONE

Keep cleaning products close to

the sink and dishwasher

Rubbish bins should also be kept

in this area

For ultimate functionality, you

might want to opt for a scullery

COOKING ZONE

Keep your most-used cooking

products, utensils and pots and

pans around the stovetop and

oven(s)

Focus on below-the-waist

drawers - a great place to store

your baking essentials

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With you, from design to completion

Kitchens that are on trend and on budget

KITCHEN

Butler’s pantries

Black Melamine

A butler’s pantry is an area where you can sweep dishes away, hide cumbersome

appliances and prepare food – a room where you can close the door, keeping the

main kitchen clear as the visual focus. Depending on the context, butler’s pantries

can also function as secondary kitchens.

Black, Penny Tiles Splashback

Icy White, Laminate

CONSIDERATIONS

If you’ve got the budget, creating the perfect butler’s

pantry/scullery can deliver a whole new experience

in the home. From stone benchtops to custom

cabinetry, storage solutions, charging stations,

areas for homework or baking … the possibilities are

limited only by the imagination.

SIZE

While some people want to use sculleries as a

full kitchen, doing most of their food preparation

in a separate space, others may prefer to have

their food preparation areas on display. If the

functionality of a scullery is to be a workable

cooking and food prep area, space and size

are important. If it’s too small, the scullery can

quickly start to feel like a confined area, which

is not ideal.

STORAGE

If space is not a limitation; large workspaces

and functional, easy-to-reach storage is often a

priority. Pull-out shelving is becoming popular

and various options are available to ensure each

available space is maximised with pull-out corner

cupboards and innovative carousel solutions.

LAYOUT

As you plan your pantry, think about what sort

of workspace will be needed, whether plumbing

is required for a second sink or dishwasher and

whether additional power points will be useful to

allow for larger appliances to be set up and plugged

in; ready to use.

Book a free in-store consultation and

explore your dream kitchen at mitre10.co.nz/kitchens

KEEPING IT CLEAN

Dishwashers are often placed in the butler’s pantry.

If that’s going to be the case, then a nearby sink will

be a necessity for those who want to avoid traipsing

dishes from one area to another. Keep this in mind

when you are looking at costs, as new plumbing

points will likely be needed.

FUNCTIONAL FAMILY LIVING

High-end sculleries can deliver personalised

solutions for a family’s needs. For families with

children; a butler’s pantry can provide a “messy

area” where children can learn to bake, where

devices can be charged and where school lunches

can be made.

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KITCHEN

HOW TO

Make the most of

a compact kitchen

Our top tips to create the perfect bijou kitchen combine planning and design with

practicality and discipline to ensure that every aspect works in harmony to deliver a

solution that matches both your taste and your lifestyle.

Where your family comes together

Your local kitchen design, manufacture &

installation specialists

Order your FREE Kitchen Look Book for ideas,

inspiration, and trending styles

GET CREATIVE WITH YOUR KITCHEN

WORKSPACES

Even a compact kitchen can offer functional space –

it’s just a case of creating it. A slim island can usually

be accommodated, but if not then a butcher’s block

will give you an area for preparation. If space is very

limited, it’s imperative to be disciplined in keeping

workspaces clutter-free and to consider gadgets

such as a boiling-water tap which may enable you to

dispense with a kettle.

IDENTIFY THE BEST LAYOUT

Above everything, the layout that you settle on will

have the biggest impact on the feeling of space. As

well as considering all of the components – such as

furniture, appliances and storage – it’s important to

think about the flow of the space; as you will be using

the kitchen for a variety of purposes.

CHOOSE COLOUR CAREFULLY

Most designers will recommend white for small

areas. A compact kitchen is no different, although

neutral shades are also a possibility. Large

expanses of dark colour have a tendency to shrink

spaces but they should not be dismissed altogether.

Accenting with a darker colour can enhance the

feeling of depth and spaciousness.

SLIM DOWN YOUR APPLIANCES

Appliances invariably require significant space

allocation in any kitchen but smaller slimline

models are available, as are combination solutions

such as a washer-dryers. Integrating appliances

can also benefit not only the overall design but also

the overall spatial perception.

LET THE LIGHT FLOOD IN

A compact kitchen can easily be dark, so allow

in as much natural light as possible. That might

mean replacing an existing window with a larger

alternative or adding a roof light. If neither of these

options is feasible, another approach might be to

install an internal window in order to ‘borrow’ light

from another room.

PUT IT AWAY

Storage is a key consideration when designing a

compact kitchen. Visible clutter combined with

exposed pots, pans and utensils can all shrink

the space. From recessed shelving and bespoke

cupboards to elegant hanging rails, there are

a multitude of options for storage even in the

smallest of spaces.

www.mastercraft.co.nz I 0800 67 67 67 I 29 Locations New Zealand-wide

24 ISSUE 031

25


Q

Q

What is the “kitchen triangle”?

A

If I spend "x" amount on my home, what

amount can I expect the value of my

home to increase by?

KITCHEN

It’s basically the triangle between the sink, the fridge and

your cooking space. So, your fridge would be your storage

(or your pantry, possibly), you’ve got your cooking area and

then your washing area. That has changed a little bit over

time as kitchens have become more modern. However,

when you are looking at simulating that triangle, don’t run

miles between your kitchen! You only want to have one or

two paces between each of those points. If you start going

three or four paces, you’re doing a lot of mileage in that

kitchen just to cook one meal.

KIM REICHE

Refresh Renovations Specialist in Manukau and Franklin, NZ

A

Whilst I'm not a valuer of properties in your market, so

can't help you with that, I am an expert in renovation work.

Remember that this is your home and most of your time

is spent in the kitchen area, so it's an integral part of your

family home. Whilst it is the most expensive part of your

home, you want to do it once, do it right and have no regrets

after completing it. So try to spend as much as your budget

will allow. Remember, when (and if) you do sell your home

in the future, you would have had the pleasure of a modern

kitchen and your home will be more sale-able.

STEVE ROPER

Refresh Renovations Specialist in Waikato, NZ

ASK OUR EXPERTS

We asked our team of experts to provide answers to some of their most

frequently asked kitchen renovation questions. Here’s what they had to say.

Q

Q

What are some basic things that can be done

to improve an existing kitchen?

A

I always think: “what is going to give you the most pleasure

and what do you touch a lot in your kitchen?” What you

touch the most is, without a doubt, your kitchen tap. A

nice sexy tap does wonders with some really cool handles!

If you’ve got a little bit more of a budget, freshen up your

splashback. Benchtops are quite simple to change, however,

remember that there is always a bit of plumbing and

electrical involved because you have to move your hob and

your sink. So, depending on where your budget sits; taps,

handles and splashbacks are always a good place to start.

KIM REICHE


What is an outdoor kitchen?

A

An outdoor kitchen, obviously, is a space outside where you

will entertain your friends, your family and your guests

while you do your prep work and the cooking in the open

air. It gives you a little more storage space and it gives you

a little bit more room for adventurous cooking than an

indoor kitchen does - through the use of wood/charcoal

BBQs, smokers, pizza ovens etc. An outdoor kitchen is a big

reflection of the homeowner - it’s a very personal, intimate

space. It’s also the hottest new trend in entertaining. With

this in mind, it’s an investment that can add value to your

home (in some cases, 100-200% return of the improvement

cost!).

THELMA MEYER

Zones Landscaping Specialist in Auckland, NZ

Q

Should I keep my plumbing where it is?

A

The answer to that varies case-by-case. It depends on the

construction of the house. If the house has concrete floors, then

it may be better to keep the plumbing within the same vicinity.

If you have floors that we have access to underneath where we

can actually tweak the drainage, then it’s a little bit easier to do.

It is always advisable to try to do a like-for-like replacement in

terms of plumbing, your oven and your range hood.

KIM REICHE


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collection

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Barometer

26 ISSUE 031

27


Bathroom

The bathroom - a place we spend

approximately 92 days of our life in - is

a place of escapism. Whether you’re

renovating your bathroom to improve its

layout, style or ambience, take some time

to plan it out in detail. Only fools rush in.

EMBRACE THE NATURAL

PROPERTIES OF CONCRETE

Handcrafted and distinctively designed to

embrace the natural properties of concrete,

creating a focal point in any bathroom.

28 ISSUE 031

29


Bathroom checklist


BATHROOM


Floors - ceramic tiles, laminate, terrazzo, engineered wood

Wall finish - wet surfaces, paint, tiles

New shower - cubicle, walk-in or room for two

New bath - spa bath, freestanding or alcove

Windows - outside view or frosted glass

Natural light - big windows or skylights

Separate toilet room

Ensuite

Wet room

STORAGE + CABINETRY

Lockable medicine cabinet

Space for other items - scales, rubbish bin

Shelves/drawers for toiletries, towels, make-up or other

New cupboards, or new doors and handles

Laundry cabinet

Built-in shower storage

Ladder shelf

APPLIANCES

Laundry area for dirty washing, ironing, cleaning items

Hot water tank - electric/gas, instant water heater

Powerpoints - hair and grooming appliances

Good tasking lighting - makeup, magnifying mirrors

General lighting - feature lighting for effects or dimmers

Underfloor heating or radiator

Heated towel rail

Ventilation - vents or automatic fan

FINISHINGS

Future proofing - grab bars, non-slip tiles, walk-in shower

Bathroom window treatments - blinds, shutters

Dressing - full-length mirrors, robe hooks

Showerhead - rainfall style, handheld or wall mounted

Mirror - fog-less, wall mounted, pivot, illuminated

New taps or fixtures

New toilet

Double basin - wall hung or other

Bathroom splashback

New vanity - laminate, marble, wood, granite, concrete or other

Other privacy considerations


• What design style are you drawn to?


• Have you checked your calendar for the most convenient time of year

to renovate?

• Have you considered a backup bathroom for while you renovate?

• Have you considered powder room needs as well as practical needs?

• How much space is there? See page 33 for advice on measurements.

30 ISSUE 031

31

IMAGE Adam Schlooz PROJECT Corey Rambhai


BATHROOMS

Measure me right

The bathroom is one of the rooms in the

home that needs careful consideration when

embarking on a renovation project.

WHO WILL BE USING THE BATHROOM, NOW AND

IN YEARS TO COME?

If you can answer that question, you’ll be setting off in the right

direction from the outset. Will it be two people who often get

ready for work at the same time? A family with young children?

Grandparents? Pets? Your bathroom requirements will change

depending on the main users.

HOW WILL THE BATHROOM BE USED?

If two people are going to be sharing the use of the space at the

same time each morning, you will want to consider floor space,

designing comfortable amounts of room to carry out whatever

tasks are undertaken at the same time. If the bathroom needs to

accommodate space for one person to sit and apply make-up while

another shaves at the same time, you may want to consider double

basins and a larger mirror.

LAYOUT OPTIONS

In regards to layout, an important consideration is what will be

seen of the bathroom from the door. If a guest is walking past the

room, it may be that having the toilet in the line of vision isn’t the

best idea. Instead, ensuring the vanity and mirror are the first focal

points could make more sense.

If you’re looking at including a bath, space can become an issue in

smaller layouts, so thinking about combining a bath and shower is

often a popular solution with a shower over the tub.

KEY MEASUREMENTS

Most bathroomware products are of fairly standard dimensions. Of

course, there are countless options for different products. If you’re

looking at designing bespoke pieces, then these more standardised

measurements won’t be relevant. As a general guide though,

the following dimensions are relatively universal for standard

bathroomware and are worth considering as you develop a design

for your bathroom that allows for seamless functionality through

clever use of space.

SPACE REQUIRED AROUND BATHROOMWARE

To ensure a comfortable amount of room around each piece

in the bathroom, there are some fairly standard guidelines to

follow. While these will differ depending on individual design

requirements, the guidelines below are a good place to start:

• For ease of movement, you’ll need a minimum of 700mm of

clear space in front of the toilet, and 200mm on either side of it

• Double sinks can generally be incorporated into an area

spanning 1500mm, but it’s generally more functional if this can

be extended to at least 1800mm

• Towel rails are normally mounted around 900mm above the

floor

• If a shower has a glass enclosure, it normally reaches a

minimum of 1900mm in height from the floor

• If you have fixtures on opposite walls, a minimum space of

800mm from the front edge of each fixture to the front of the

opposing one allows for comfortable space to move around in

• With the placement of each fixture, ensure you leave enough

space for an uncluttered entryway where the door can

effortlessly open. For a standard 81cm door, aim for at least an

86cm width of surrounding space.

Key measurements

1

2

3

4

A standard bath generally measures

1740mm (d) 800mm (w) x 612mm (h)

Showers generally measure around

900mm (d) x 900mm (w)

Toilets generally measure

650mm (d) x 380mm (w) x 816mm (h)

Vanities generally measure around

395mm (d) x 460mm (w) x 900mm (h)

4

3

1

2

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33

IMAGE Adam Schlooz PROJECT Corey Rambhai


Q

Q

ASK OUR EXPERTS


frequently asked bathroom renovation questions. Here’s what they had to say.

Currently, what are some of the most

popular bathroom renovation trends?

A

We are finding that our clients are loving sleek and modern

designs throughout their tile selections and bathroom

fixtures. Overall, subway tiles are still a popular choice.

They often sit at a great price point and give clients

flexibility with colour and layout options. Woodgrain joinery

is also a popular way of adding softness into a space.

Finally, in terms of fixtures, we are noticing that back-towall

bathtubs are still a go-to. They offer the convenience

of a drop-in bath, but with the aesthetic of a freestanding

model.

ROSIE REID

Refresh Renovations Project Manager in Wellington, NZ

What are some important things

to keep in mind when renovating a

bathroom for retirement?

A

An easy, accessible shower without any step-overs is best.

Go with level shower designs for wheelchair access. You

want the shower design to be easy for people to go in and

out. So no bath. Take the bath out. It really depends on the

health of the client and what stage of retirement they are

in, but grip-bars for showers and even for the toilet offers

something to hold on to for balance if a client is at a stage

where it is getting harder to walk. It’s also a good idea to

consider adding in a slightly higher, raised toilet. People find

it quite hard, as they get older and stiffer, to sit down on a

lower toilet. Standard toilets are slightly low but you can

choose to have a higher model installed. If there is room, it

helps to have walls on either side of the toilet with grab-bars

attached, so that individuals can pull themselves back up.

LIA BOERSMA

Refresh Renovations Specialist in Wellington, NZ

BATHROOM

Q

Q

What flooring materials do you recommend

for a modern bathroom?

How can I optimise the layout within my

small bathroom?

A

A

Q

How long will my bathroom renovation take?

A tiled floor for a bathroom is the most practical option.

Careful consideration needs to be taken for the selection of

flooring, and also the floor construction, to ensure that it

complies with local waterproofing standards. I recommend

a quality porcelain tile for the finished surface. A highly

polished tile should be avoided as they can be very slippery

when wet. Most tiles have a slip rating which can help assess

their suitability for bathroom flooring but it is always worth

getting advice from your local tile supplier.

PAUL CREE

Refresh Renovations Specialist in Melbourne, AU

Optimising space in a small bathroom can be a tricky

prospect. Recess everything that you can e.g. cabinets,

niches and maybe even the vanity. An in-wall cistern will

reduce your toilet’s protrusion from the wall into your

bathroom space. Try to keep the shower to a minimum of

900 x 900, and use a sliding door. Depending on the entry

point to the bathroom, the shower unit could have a curved

front. For all bathrooms, a design is required but a good

design is particularly important for small spaces to make

use of every centimetre being optimised.

COREY RAMBHAI

Refresh Renovations Specialist in Auckland, NZ

A

It's important to note that the timeline and schedule need to

be flexible. Some circumstances that could change the timeline

and schedule are delays in the delivery of materials, quality of

materials, subcontractor schedules, weather, inspections, etc.

HAYLEY ENGLISH

Refresh Renovations Specialist in Pensacola, Florida

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34 ISSUE 031

35

With you, from design to completion

HOW TO

Solve unequal

water pressure

If taking a shower tends to be more of an unpredictable event than a comforting way to

rinse away the day, your home may have unequal water pressure. Experienced plumber

Hayden Lim has some advice on resolving this problem.

BATHROOMS

Q

What is an unequal water

pressure system?

Q

What is the best way to identify

unequal water pressure?

A

Q

A

An unequal water pressure system is

when your cold water pressure is higher

than your hot water pressure.

What causes unequal water

pressure?

It is caused by a low-pressure hot water

cylinder being installed in the house to

deliver hot water. You will typically find

this type of system in the majority of

houses built before the 2000s.

A

The easiest way for a homeowner to identify

whether or not they have unequal water

pressure is to turn on a hot tap and a cold

tap and compare the differences in water

pressure. If the cold pressure is much greater

than the hot pressure, then they more than

likely have a low-pressure hot water cylinder

installed and have an unequal water system.

Also, the homeowner may have noticed that

their shower is very temperamental and hard

to adjust to a comfortable temperature or it

fluctuates a lot; that is also a sign that it is an

unequal pressure system.

BEFORE

Q

A

How long does it take to

replace a hot water cylinder?

In most situations, a hot water cylinder

upgrade can easily be completed in one day.

Mitre 10 has everything you need

to create the bathroom you’ve

always wanted. With a stylish range

of tapware and quality vanities,

baths and showers, our bathroom

consultants can help from a refresh

to a complete renovation without

breaking the bank.

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Q

A

How can unequal water pressure

be solved?

The best way to solve the problem would be

to replace the old low-pressure hot water

cylinder and upgrade it to a mains pressure

hot water cylinder. This will give you an equal

pressure system which means the cold and

hot water pressure is the same and you will

find it a lot easier to mix the water and have a

comfortable shower.

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37


Organise your bathroom,

organise your life

City-50 drawers feature Onda Storage Accessories

What is a wet room?

Wet rooms can be deceptively simple spaces. Thought, planning and attention

to detail are all keys to creating a relaxing space where form marries function.

This is a trend driven by architects and their clients alike!

BATHROOM

SURFACE SATISFACTION

LET THE LIGHT IN

City 50 offers you 105 luxurious vanity

models, allowing you to pick the size and

configuration that best suits your bathroom.

Scan QR Code to view the City 50 range.

stmichel.co.nz

SUPERSIZE SPACE

One of the big advantages of wet

rooms is that they create the illusion

of more space in even a modestsized

bathroom. Doing away with

conventional shower screens and

trays allows the eye to travel further

without interruption. The effect can be

enhanced with a wall-mounted basin

and toilet fittings.

FOOLPROOF

WATERPROOFING

One of the biggest challenges in

creating a wet room is ensuring it

is fully waterproofed. Waterproof

surfaces should be floor-to-ceiling

and extend at least a two-metre

radius from the showerhead. A

surveyor is the best source of advice

but be prepared to install additional

waterproofing for the underlying

wall and floor structure. Tanking, for

example, is a waterproof layer applied

underneath the chosen surface finish,

providing a further layer of protection

against leakage that could cause damp

or even dry rot.

Choosing wet room surfaces is one

of the most pleasurable parts of

creating such a space. Revel in the

tactile qualities and sensual palette

of slate, marble, limestone or even

waterproofed concrete. Tiles offer a

kaleidoscopic choice of colours and

patterns, bespoke mosaics add an

indulgent and personal touch. If your

budget allows, consider underfloor

heating when planning the floor

surface. Wet rooms without heating

can be cold in winter.

WHEN LESS IS MORE

Storage is always an important

consideration in a bathroom but

even more so in a wet room where

bathroom necessities – not just lotions

and potions but also towels, toilet

paper and cleaning materials – should

be stored outside the splash zone.

Recessed or cavity cabinetry and flush

panelled cupboards make sense in this

space.

FOCUS ON FIXTURES AND

FITTINGS

The minimalist ethos that defines

the wet room allows the fixtures

and fittings that remain to take

centre stage. It also invites the use

of innovative bathware and tapware

such as freestanding baths and basins

that are plumbed from the floor.

Showerheads can be mounted from

walls or ceilings singly, in groups or

in linear arrangements. The most

efficient showerheads combine

reduced water flow with aeration to

give the feeling of a stronger flow with

less water.

An ideal bathroom design will bathe

you in ample natural light. You

might want to achieve this by having

skylights, high-up windows or frosted

windows installed. Of course, interior

lighting is also important. Staying

within the clean and spacious theme of

most wet rooms; you might want to opt

for recessed lighting and perhaps some

feature LED lighting over your vanity.

FUTURE-PROOFING

Regardless of your current age, wet

rooms offer a practical bathroom

layout for all stages of life. It’s a

waterproof zone where you don’t have

to worry about kids splashing in the

bathtub or dogs shaking dry after

you’ve given them an indoors wash.

Later in life, wet rooms provide easy

shower access with a reduced risk of

tripping and falling on your way in

and out. The low-maintenance aspects

of the space also make it ideal for all

of life’s busy stages. Overall, it’s an

accessible bathroom design that just

makes sense.

39


People's

choice

awards

42 46 50

KITCHEN

OF THE YEAR

BATHROOM

OF THE YEAR

CONVERSION

OF THE YEAR

International home renovation and

landscaping specialists Refresh Renovations

and Zones Landscaping asked renovation

enthusiasts to cast their votes on a range of

standout projects. These are their

People’s Choice Awards.

52 56

62

EXTENSION & EXTERIOR

OF THE YEAR

OUTDOOR PROJECTS

OF THE YEAR

WHOLE HOUSE

RENOVATION OF THE YEAR

40

ISSUE 031


Photography: Scott Espie

KITCHEN

OF THE

YEAR

REFRESH RENOVATIONS

PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS

BRONZE

Photography: Picturia Commercial

KITCHEN

OF THE

YEAR

REFRESH RENOVATIONS


SILVER

PEOPLE'S CHOICE AWARDS

Serene green: 1920's

kitchen update

• Location: Auckland, New Zealand

• Cost: $120,000 NZD

Cooking with

cool tones

• Location: Surrey, England

• Cost: £90,000 GBP

A striking aspect of this 1920s home renovation is the

modern kitchen design. Originally featuring an outdated

layout and clashing colours, the kitchen was updated with a

new layout, sleek storage solutions, modern appliances and

a bold green tiled splashback. Every detail, from the kwila

flooring to the contemporary lighting, has contributed

to this kitchen’s elegant yet practical new personality.

Completed alongside a rumpus room, laundry and office

renovation: the home’s complete renovation was carried out

in 10 weeks within the homeowner’s $120,000 budget.

• Project duration: 10 weeks

• Challenges: Water tight issues

• Key materials: Kwila hardwood

flooring, Corian stone kitchen island

• Key features: Green splashback tiles

• Style: Scandinavian design influences

• Renovation Specialist: Corey

Rambhai, Refresh Renovations

Many of us aspire to design our dream home - and that’s just

what these homeowners did. They worked with Renovation

Specialist Kelley Malcher across every stage of their project,

ensuring the design and plans were perfect before any

construction began. The kitchen, which had not been updated

in 20 years, was central to this renovation. It was updated

to an open-plan layout with plenty of storage. From the blue

tiles to the grey furnishings, the kitchen update includes a

cohesive collection of traditional and contemporary features.

• Project duration: 2 months

• Key materials: Marble benchtops

• Key features: “Duck egg blue”

splashback tiles

• Style: Traditional/

contemporary style

• Renovation Specialist: Kelley Malcher,

Refresh Renovations

BEFORE

42 ISSUE 031

43


KITCHEN

OF THE

YEAR

REFRESH RENOVATIONS


GOLD



A modern

monochromatic

masterpiece

While the original kitchen of this Auckland villa would have

been a standout in its day, it wasn’t designed with modern

living in mind. Clean lines, light colours and an open layout

have made it much more suitable for a modern family.

For the most part, the design and colour scheme has been

chosen for its simplicity - allowing the homeowners to add

their own bursts of personality through art and decoration.

However, there is one particularly unique aspect: textured

tiling along the splashback and island is illuminated by LED

lighting, creating an artistic lighting effect around the room.

The otherwise very white scheme is anchored with the

clients’ selection of black accents in tapware, light fittings

and appliances, adding some drama while keeping the

kitchen significantly lighter than its original. The overall

effect is a light and open, personalised and stylish space.

“I love the pared-down design of the kitchen so that

it looks really smart in the corner of the open-plan

living space. It allows the focus to be on the clients’

accessories, art and furniture.” - Dave Georgetti


• Cost: $50,000 NZD


• Key materials: Melamine panelled

cupboards, white composite stone

benchtops

• Key features: Unique LED lighting/

tile combination

• Style: A simple colour palette allows

for personalised decorating

• Renovation Specialist: Dave

Georgetti, Refresh Renovations

44 ISSUE 031

45


REFRESH RENOVATIONS

BATHROOM

OF THE YEAR


BRONZE

Marvellously

modern

bathroom

design

A pre-existing “wing wall” is now a standout

feature in this bathroom redesign. Covered

with dark grey/brown hexagon tiles, the wall

makes a statement, provides an added level

of privacy and seamlessly blends into the

custom made vanity. In contrast, the rest of

the bathroom features light colours. White

marble tiles cover the floor, white paint

brightens the walls and quality bathroom

ware all work together to achieve a simple

elegance.

REFRESH RENOVATIONS

BATHROOM

OF THE YEAR


SILVER

PEOPLE'S KITCHEN CHOICE AWARDS

Photography: Vince DeStefano

• Location: Auckland, New

Zealand

An ensuite transformed

from bland to grand

The owner of this Melbourne bathroom desperately wanted a walkin

shower but didn’t know how to make it happen within such a

limited amount of space. The solution? A cavity sliding door. Once

the space-saving door was installed, waterproofing and floor-toceiling

tiling were carried out, transforming the space into a highend

wetroom. With a floating stone-top vanity, subtle shower niche

and chrome tapware - it’s the small details that complete this design.

• Location: Melbourne, Australia

• Cost: $16,710 AUD


• Key materials: Floating stonetop

vanity, chrome tapware

• Key feature: Walk-in shower

• Biggest challenge: Making

the small space feel larger

• Renovation Specialist:

Leigh McDonald, Refresh

Renovations

• Cost: $95,000 NZD


• Key materials: Marble

flooring, engineered stone

benchtop

• Key features: Custommade

vanity

• Style: Minimalism

• Best decision: Keeping the

existing “wing wall”

• Renovation Specialist:

Dave Georgetti,

Refresh Renovations


BEFORE

46 ISSUE 031

47


REFRESH RENOVATIONS

BATHROOM

OF THE YEAR


GOLD

Photography: Chris Pryor, Top Snap Photography


The bee's knees:

Honeycomb ensuite

This renovation is a fantastic example of how a highend

result can be achieved within a limited space.

There’s no sign of it now but this ensuite was originally

unusable due to structural damage and mould - a

result of poor waterproofing. Renovation Specialist

Marcus Smith updated it to the homeowner’s

preferences.

The new, personalised design features a periodstyle

basin mixer by Phoenix, a beautiful Timberline

floating vanity and a polished concrete basin.

Natural stone hexagon tiles are eye-catching in the

large walk-in shower along with a recess for shower

products and a heated towel ladder. The glass shower

panel combined with the monochrome colours and

wet room all play key roles in making this bathroom

feel more spacious than it previously did.

Lastly, the guest powder room was upgraded to

complement the new ensuite. Sticking to the same

style; the powder room is clean, spacious and

minimal.


• Cost: $175,000 AUD (includes a deck update

as well)

• Project duration: 12 weeks (includes a deck -

Exterior of the Year page 55)

• Key materials: Natural stone hexagon tiles

• Key features: Walk-in shower, Timberline

vanity, polished concrete basin

• Style: Monochrome colour scheme

• Renovation Specialist: Marcus Smith,

Refresh Renovations

48 ISSUE 031

49


Photography: Adam Schlooz

REFRESH RENOVATIONS

CONVERSION

OF THE YEAR


GOLD


• Cost: $130,000 NZD (includes adding

a storage space and updating the

existing media room)


• Key features: Laser-cut garage

door

• Renovation Specialist: Corey

Rambhai, Refresh Renovations


Light and bright

home office garage

conversion

Renovation Specialist Corey Rambhai helped these

homeowners re-design, re-construct and re-decorate

their dark, cluttered garage into an inviting and practical

home office. A standout aspect of this conversion is

the laser-cut garage door which lets plenty of natural

light in. This, paired with the newly painted walls, adds

a fresh, spacious feel to the office. Custom storage was

installed, allowing the homeowners to keep their tools

tidy and enjoy a relaxed office environment. A desk area

with office cabinetry and new office-friendly lighting

complete the space. Now comfortably working from

home, the homeowners are enjoying their “welcoming

and functional” office.

“The garage door is the wow statement.

Now, everything has a place. It’s clean, fresh

and decluttered. The office is welcoming

and functional." - Michelle Devereux-Rangi,

Refresh Renovations Specialist

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A Scandi

style home

office

extension

REFRESH RENOVATIONS

EXTENSION

OF THE YEAR


BRONZE

REFRESH RENOVATIONS

EXTENSION

OF THE YEAR


SILVER


Photography: Elfs Photography

Photography: Elfs Photography

Extending provided an ideal work-from-home solution for this

homeowner. Staying consistent with the rest of the home, polished

timber flooring was chosen for the new home office. While the style

of the office is simple, every detail has been carefully thought-out.

A window in the corner of the room provides ample natural light

in conjunction with modern recessed lighting. A powder room was

included within the extension, which adds to the privacy of the office.


Growing home for

a growing family

Needing a house that could match their growing family,

these homeowners opted to add a second storey bedroom

and bathroom to their two-bedroom, one-bathroom home.

To achieve this, they also needed to extend the ground floor

of their home to create room for a staircase. This five-month

renovation resulted in a brand new upstairs bedroom and

bathroom as well as an airy, bright downstairs update.

The new design makes the most out of every space within

the home - including the stairway which houses a hidden

laundry. Upstairs, Baltic pine flooring and white floor-toceiling

paint creates a natural and calming bedroom space

while the bathroom design exudes style and functionality.


• Cost: $205,000 AUD


• Key materials: Baltic pine flooring

• Key features: New bedroom,

bathroom and staircase

• Biggest challenge: Height restrictions

required the build of a vaulted ceiling

• Renovation Specialist: Paul Cree,

Refresh Renovations

• Cost: $67,000 AUD


• Key materials: Polished timber flooring

• Top trend: Scandinavian design

• Best decision: Lightweight construction

methods helped to keep costs down

• Biggest challenge: Carrying out construction

on a boundary meant a fire-rated boundary

wall was required

• Renovation Specialist: Paul Cree,

Refresh Renovations

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Cabin fever:

Ground floor

bedroom

extension

BEFORE

REFRESH RENOVATIONS

EXTENSION

OF THE YEAR


GOLD

REFRESH RENOVATIONS

EXTERIOR

OF THE YEAR


GOLD


Photography: Chris Pryor, Top Snap Photography

A Victorian deck

that delivers


• Cost: $175,000 AUD (includes

an ensuite update as well)

Photography: David Dolphin

Having already carried out extension work out on their stone-built

Georgian-style home in the past, these homeowners wanted to keep

their newest extension project as consistent as possible with the

home’s existing design. Cedarwood cladding was used to maintain

this consistency on the exterior. Inside, the bedroom is almost a

new home in itself. Triple stacked doors connect a small patio to a

spacious bedroom that features air conditioning, a soft new carpet,

fresh paint, modern lighting and a generous walk-in wardrobe.

Within 12 weeks of work, the owners of this peaceful Wanaka

property were able to provide their guests with a relaxed and private

room of their own.

Originally, this outdoor area wasn’t only lacking in shade - guttering

and drainage issues were causing rainwater to run into the home’s

living room. The homeowners worked with local Renovation

Specialist Marcus Smith to rectify these issues whilst optimising

the lifestyle aspects of their Merbau deck. The Merbau decking was

extended to create a more serviceable space and an Ultimate Louvre

Roof system was installed. To complement the space, Marcus and

his team installed a high-performance slimline strip heater and a

first-class motorised blind that now filters the light and weather on

the western side. The newly improved deck area brings a relaxed,

luxury element to the home.


(includes an ensuite -

Bathroom of the Year page 48)

• Key materials: Merbau decking

• Key features: Ultimate Louvre

roof system

• Renovation Specialist: Marcus

Smith, Refresh Renovations

• Location: Wanaka, New Zealand

• Cost: $88,000 NZD


• Key features: Large walk-in wardrobe, triplestacking

slider door

• Renovation Specialist: David Dolphin,

Refresh Renovations

BEFORE

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OUTDOOR

ROOM OF

THE YEAR

ZONES LANDSCAPING


BRONZE

OUTDOOR

ROOM OF

THE YEAR

ZONES LANDSCAPING


SILVER




A sun-soaked

backyard oasis


• Cost: $100,000 NZD

Poolside paradise:

A year-round escape


• Cost: $130,000 NZD

There are three defined focus points within this backyard design.

The first area of focus is the outdoor dining area which sits on

a heightened platform of coloured concrete and is sheltered by a

louvre roof system. Kwila steps lead down into the second living

area: a relaxed outdoor lounge that is sheltered by trees. Lastly,

a summer favourite, the swimming pool area is enclosed within

clear glass fencing. Different levels work together beautifully

with planter boxes to separate each of these areas into their own

unique living spaces.


• Key materials: Kwila deck, coloured

concrete, sealer pine retaining, Glass

Vice fencing

• Key features: Louvre roof system

• Landscaping Specialist: Boyd and

Matt Gillespie, Zones Landscaping

Despite being designed around a swimming pool, this outdoor space

was created with year-round use in mind. Landscaping Specialist

Rose Bridge worked with the homeowners to check-off their wishlist

which included a fade-resistant hardwood deck, an outdoor

fire that doubles as a pizza oven, a Weber BBQ, a louvre roof and

a custom made storage bench. To complete the space, outdoor

lighting was installed and garden landscaping was carried out.


• Key materials: Garapa

hardwood decking, wooden/

concrete storage bench

• Key features: Flare fireplace

• Landscaping Specialist: Rose

Bridge, Zones Landscaping

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OUTDOOR

ROOM OF

THE YEAR

ZONES LANDSCAPING


GOLD



A sleek suburban

sanctuary

Although it’s located within New Zealand’s most populated

city, this backyard feels private and peaceful. Its design

flows effortlessly from the home's interior, providing the

homeowners and their guests with a smart and modern

outdoor living area.

Artificial turf allows the homeowners to live in a mudfree

zone throughout the winter. It also provides an easy

maintenance solution in comparison to their original lawn.

Vitex decking now offers an aesthetic contrast between the

open and covered areas, while a louvre roof allows sunlight

to stream through in the summer while providing sealed

coverage in the winter. The outdoor fireplace and spa area

are the final touches, creating some winter warmth.

“It has all come together really well. I would have

to say my favourite features are the louvre and

the fireplace. The louvre guys have been really

good to work with. All of the suppliers were very

accommodating and helped us through some

tricky little problems. We’re very impressed!” - Matt,

homeowner.

• Location: Auckland,

New Zealand

• Cost: $96,000


• Key materials: Vitex

decking, artificial turf

• Key features: Outdoor

fireplace, spa area

• Top trend: Louvre roof

• Best decision: Fixing

timber decking onto the

concrete to

save on costs

• Landscaping Specialist:

Kate Ryan, Zones

Landscaping

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ZONES LANDSCAPING

LANDSCAPE OF

THE YEAR


GOLD

ZONES LANDSCAPING

GARDEN OF

THE YEAR


GOLD


Photography: Dom Birley

Photography: Matthew Wilkinson

Beachside bliss:

A peaceful landscape

• Location: Tauranga, New Zealand

• Cost: $100,000 NZD

Follow the tropical

yellow brick road


• Cost: $100,000 NZD

Hoping to establish an improved outdoor living area within a

new garden design, these homeowners worked with Landscape

Architect Nichola Vague to develop their ideas. They wanted

their garden to suit the cottage style of their home, so a green

and white garden with iceberg roses became a prominent

aspect of the design. On the seaside section of the property, a

subtropical theme was introduced using specimen bromeliads,

cycads and palm trees. Completed with pavers, painting work,

trellis screening, a louvre roof, outdoor lighting and new

gardens - the new design is a cohesive blend of old and new.

• Project duration: Carried out in

4-week stages over 1 year

• Key materials: Concrete pavers, timber

trellis, louvre roof, retaining walls

• Key features: Cottage/subtropical

garden themes

• Landscaping Specialist:

Nichola Vague, Zones Landscaping

After living in their beautiful Mediterranean-style home for

over 30 years, the owners decided that it was time to carry out

work that would preserve the style of their outdoor area. Their

local Landscaping Specialist Matthew Wilkinson worked with

them to improve and extend the pathways around their home.

To complete this work, Matthew first had to address a range of

drainage issues throughout the property. Once this was done,

Matthew’s team installed terracotta cobble tiled pathways (to

suit the existing cobble tiles used for the pool patio).


• Key materials: Terracotta cobble

tiles, steel garden edging

• Key features: Pathway upgrade

• Best decision: New drainage

• Landscaping Specialist: Matthew

Wilkinson, Zones Landscaping

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REFRESH RENOVATIONS

FULL HOUSE

RENOVATION

OF THE YEAR


BRONZE

REFRESH RENOVATIONS

FULL HOUSE

RENOVATION

OF THE YEAR


SILVER


Photography: Sara Tansy

Photography: Sara Tansy

A lively kitchen with

a dash of colour

• Location: Wellington, New

Zealand

Black is back:

A kitchen with an edge

• Location: Wellington, New Zealand

• Cost: $377,000 NZD

This family’s wish-list included an open-plan kitchen/dining area, a

bathroom renovation, adding a walk-in wardrobe and ensuite into the

master bedroom, as well as a new deck with stairs and a balustrade.

The original living area featured a classic design which included timber

flooring, a chandelier and stunning mountain views. However, a modern

update allowed for more functionality. The walls and ceiling were

repainted, the timber flooring switched out for easy-to-clean laminate

flooring and the chandelier was replaced with modern pendant lighting.

The upper deck was rebuilt with timber - with new stairs leading to the

ground-level deck. A sliding door with double glazing was also installed,

which brings light and warmth into the house.

• Cost: $320,000 NZD


• Key materials: Laminate

flooring, timber deck, glass

balustrade

• Renovation Specialist: Steve

Wang, Refresh Renovations

These homeowners wanted to completely modernise

their home’s interior, largely focusing on the kitchen and

bathrooms. They also wanted new flooring, stairs and paint

work. In the bathrooms; they opted for floor-to-ceiling tiling

and granite vanities. Their high-gloss kitchen has been

designed to perfection and finished with engineered stone

benchtops and high-end appliances. Throughout the home,

timber flooring adds texture. However, the stairs are perhaps

the standout feature of the home thanks to the striking colour

scheme and sophisticated glass balustrade.

• Project duration: 4 ½ months

• Key materials: Timber flooring,

engineered stone benchtops,

granite bathroom vanities

• Key features: Bubble massage

bath, glass balustrade

• Renovation Specialist: Steve

Wang, Refresh Renovations

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REFRESH RENOVATIONS

FULL HOUSE

RENOVATION

OF THE YEAR


GOLD

• Location: Wellington, New

Zealand

• Cost: $725,000 NZD


• Key materials: Matai timber

flooring, stone benchtops

• Key features: 160sqm of

updated living space

• Renovation Specialist: Mark

Morrison, Refresh Renovations


Photography: Helen Gwyther

A bungalow fit

for a family

Adding a basement to your bungalow is no small task but,

for these homeowners, it was as easy as moving out and

returning nine months later to a completely new home. In

addition to adding a second storey beneath the existing

house, the project focused on the property’s outdoor area,

kitchen and open-plan living area. New matai timber

flooring was installed in areas throughout the home,

creating a natural and high-quality finish. In the kitchen,

the homeowners opted for a clean, modern style - adding

a pop of colour through their choice in splashback. The

dining area and window seat look out into the backyard

through large windows and french doors - which soak the

living areas in light. Combined with the indoor layout, the

deck provides fantastic indoor/outdoor flow - ideal for

hosting summer barbeques.

“It was a very involved renovation and the clients

had to be out of the house for nine months - but it

created a great new home. It saw the living spaces

transformed and almost the entire house upgraded

to modern, high-quality specifications.”

- Mark Morrison

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Before

and

afters

A spacious

and glossy

open plan

space

BEFORE

These kitchens, bathrooms and openplan

spaces went from dated and

eclectic to modern and personalised.

Take inspiration from a traditionalstyle

butler’s pantry, an elegant deepblue

bathroom or a spacious and

stylish open-plan family kitchen and

living room.


What was originally a small corner kitchen was transformed into

a functional and spacious living space within this three-month

upgrade. The project involved an extension, new flooring and a

complete kitchen and living room makeover.

To make the roof compliant, timber structures were added to the

roof space. Soft strip lighting, plenty of storage and a new layout

have optimised the kitchen for modern living.

The new kitchen and living area now perfectly cater to

family living. The open-plan design allows for socialising and

multitasking, while the white paired with wood creates an elegant

yet relaxed atmosphere.


• Cost: $200,000

• Build duration: 3 months

• Challenges: The original roofing

structure required additional support

during the extension

• Interesting features: Bi-fold kitchen

window

• Renovation Specialist: Corey Rambhai,

Refresh Renovations

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67


Black and

white unite in

this modern

kitchen

BEFORE

From classic

clutter to a

green dream

kitchen

BEFORE

BEFORE AND AFTERS

Photography: Elfrem Chan, Elfs Photography

Photography: Caitlin Withers

On their kitchen’s 10-year anniversary, these homeowners

decided it was time for a change. They wanted to optimise

their kitchen, of course, but the biggest goal on their wishlist

was to build a butler's pantry. Design and build specialist

Leigh McDonald showed them how to achieve this within

their limited kitchen space.

The couples’ dream bespoke butler’s pantry was constructed

with plenty of overhead shelving, cabinets, bench space, a

new fridge and an extra sink. A cupboard caddy was installed

to suit new internal corner cabinets and LED strip lighting

was installed under the overhead shelving in both the kitchen

and pantry.


• Cost: $52,000 AUD

• Project duration: 3+ weeks (timeline

pushed out due to COVID)

• Key materials: Engineered quartz

countertops + splashbacks

• Key features: New butler’s pantry

• Top trend: White and black colour

palette with gold accents

• Renovation Specialist: Leigh

McDonald, Refresh Renovations

Bright, spacious and unique; you can say with confidence that this

brick apartment is no longer stuck in the 1960s. Instead, it joins the

pace of the modern world - with a hint of its original oomph. The new

open-plan layout makes it much more spacious and functional while

the moveable island bench offers unique versatility. Both sides of the

island bench offer storage while the centre provides an obvious spot

for social clusters. The dark “sea green” splashback tiles offer a pop of

colour whilst offering a nod to the kitchen’s original style.

“A colour consultant was brought in during the

concept process to pick the kitchen () tiles - the

client wanted the new tiles to stay within the age

of the original apartment without being too retro.”

- Guy Allenby

• Location: Sydney, Australia

• Cost: $60,000 AUD


• Key features: Dark “sea green”

splashback tiling

• Renovation Specialist: Guy

Allenby, Refresh Renovations

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A light

and bright

bathroom

makeover

BEFORE

Join the

navy:

A touch

of elegance

BEFORE

BEFORE AND AFTERS

Photography: Anthony Litton from AEV Real Estate Photography®

Photography: Sara Letan

It wasn’t all smooth sailing during this Pensacola bathroom

renovation. During the demolition of the original bathroom,

the Project Manager discovered damage caused by a squirrel.

Professional project management helped to rectify this quickly

so that a new modern, spacious design could be implemented.

New luxury vinyl flooring was installed over the existing floor

tiles as well as modern cabinetry and quartz countertops.

The old windows were replaced with frosted glass and a new

toilet and glass/Corian shower were installed. With new paint,

a retextured ceiling and a few new accessories - the original

bathroom is now unrecognizable.

• Location: Pensacola, Florida


• Challenges: Hidden damage,

caused by a squirrel

• Key materials: Quartz countertops,

luxury vinyl plank flooring

• Renovation Specialist: Hayley

English, Refresh Renovations

Deciding that it was time to move on from their timber

panelled bathroom and toilet, these Wellington homeowners

contacted Refresh Renovations to discuss a new design.

Their local Renovation Specialist Lia Boersma worked with

them to develop a design, build and interior makeover of the

two spaces.

Before the makeover could begin, the bathroom had to be

stripped back and have its rotten framing and flooring

replaced. The spaces were then updated with new floor tiles,

dados, paintwork and bathroomware. The final result is

elegant and personalised - with detailed wall panelling and a

striking mix of white, black and deep blue colours.

• Location: Wellington, New Zealand


• Challenges: Hidden floor damage

• Key features: Paneled wall detailing

and dados

• Renovation Specialist: Lia Boersma,

Refresh Renovations

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Living

spaces

Increasingly, homeowners are leaning

toward multi-functional living spaces. For

some clever design ideas on achieving

functional open-plan designs, indooroutdoor

flow and home office spaces:

keep reading.

TO

YOURS

72 The ISSUE practical 031 guide to renovating

73


Living checklist


SHOULD I RENOVATE, ADD OR EXTEND?

Bedroom

Living area

Study/office area

Kids playroom

Media room/home theatre

Garage, basement or attic conversion

Home gym

Sunroom/conservatory

WHAT IS MY RENOVATION PURPOSE?

Future proofing (retirement)

Child-proofing

Luxury renovation

Eco-renovation

Updating

Increasing space/storage

Creating indoor/outdoor flow

Pet-friendly renovation


Windows – particular style, shape or size

Natural light – large windows, skylights etc.

Open plan design

Staircases and railings

Doors – sliding, bifold, french doors etc.

STORAGE + CABINETRY

Shelving storage & storage cupboards

Built-in storage

Walk-in-wardrobes

Window seat with built-in storage

Under-stair storage

Increasing attic/basement/garage storage

APPLIANCES + ELECTRICALS

Powerpoints

Wiring for TV, music or Internet

Automated smart home systems or smart security systems

Wall-mounted TV screens

Lighting – feature or task lighting, dimmers etc.

Ventilation – ducted system or other

Heating & cooling – HVACs, fans, radiators, fireplaces etc.

FINISHINGS

Insulation – underfloor, walls and/or ceiling

Flooring – wood, tiles, carpet, concrete etc.

Paint - colour, brand, feature walls

Carpentry work

Window dressings - roller blinds, Venetian blinds, shutters etc.



• Have you thought about your top priorities?

• Have you checked your calendar for the most

convenient time of year to renovate?

• Have you considered how the renovation will

affect the way you live and how you’ll work

around it?

• Have you checked how removing walls will

affect the weight bearing of the home?

• Have you established the thematic look and

style of your interiors?

STANDOUT

FEATURE

RESENE

AXOLOTL

LIVING SPACES

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is the material most commonly specified,

along with insulation and a system of

drainage pipes that lead the water away

from your house. It’s worth planning this

part of the renovation carefully to ensure

your new living space is sealed properly

and stays dry long-term.

Ventilation is key for a healthy and

comfortable basement extension, so

make sure you factor a heating and

ventilation system into your renovation

plans. This could be as easy as adding

a single unit electric heat pump but can

also include underfloor heating which is

especially practical in a basement as it

keeps the floor warm and the rooms dry.

Be sure to install proper insulation first.

LOFT CONVERSIONS

Loft conversions typically require

structural and foundational work, as the

original house was not built to hold the

weight of a second storey. In many cases,

extra steel or timber beams need to be

installed to support the new first floor.

Keeping the number of steel beams down

– and using timber for strengthening

where possible – will help you keep

your building costs down. In addition to

the new steel or timber sub-structure,

often the existing flooring needs to be

underpinned and strengthened. This kind

of foundation work is usually the biggest

unknown factor in terms of renovation

costs – until it’s been properly designed

and engineered by your architect.

Generally speaking, the steeper the pitch

of your roof the more likely it is that

your roof will be suitable for conversion.

However, any work done on a roof

requires a scaffold or edge protection,

which will add to the cost of your project.

Weather-proofing during the build is

one of the main concerns when the roof

has to be removed. Full scaffolding that

can be wrapped in plastic shrink wrap

is a good option that provides watertightness

and allows the builders to work

in any weather, thus helping to avoid

weather-related delays that can be costly

both in terms of time and money.

Skylight windows are the most costeffective

window style to install. They

let in plenty of light; however, as they

are flush with the roofline they will

not help create any more headroom.

Dormer windows create this precious

extra headroom that protrudes from the

sloping roof, so they are a great option

when you want to maximise the available

attic space. If your budget allows, you can

even consider installing French doors or

sliding doors with a glass balustrade or

small balcony. These solutions create

the feeling of a more open space and let

natural light flood in.

With all of this extra building work

required, it’s not surprising that loft

conversions are typically more expensive

than same level extensions. They do,

however, allow you to maximise space

while maintaining the home’s footprint,

which is often key in denser, urban areas.

Resene

Ornate

wallpaper

collection

32105

Resene

Barely There

Resene

Black White

Resene

Factory lll

Wallpaper

Collection

445503-1

LIVING SPACES

Basement and

loft conversions

These days, many people are deciding

to stay in their homes and maximise the

space they've got. Especially if you’re in

a neighbourhood you love; a conversion

can provide the best solution to creating

an additional bedroom, office, games

room or unique space.

BASEMENT CONVERSIONS

With section sizes and lawn space at a

premium, plus height and boundary

limitations in place in most urban

settings, basement conversions are fast

becoming a renovation style of choice for

creating additional living space.

Getting architectural plans drawn up

for your project is one of the first steps

to get your renovation underway. When

excavating or converting a basement

space, engineering work is typically

necessary to provide sufficient support.

This is a major cost influencer, so a large

percentage of your renovation costs will

be determined by the kind of structural

and foundation work that will need to be

done. Extending your home below ground

level is generally more expensive than a

same level home extension because more

work is required.

The main concern with a basement

conversion is how to support and protect

your existing house. First of all, the

existing structure requires propping.

When the building phase begins, strong

foundations need to be put in place to

ensure your extension will support the

main house. This typically requires steel

and concrete structures. The soil type of

your property may have an impact on the

cost, as loose or unstable soil such as ash

or sand may require more work.

Apart from structural work, one of the

most important issues is creating a

watertight space. Solid sheet membrane

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LIVING SPACES

Resene

Clever storage tricks

Intelligent storage solutions make use

of space in any room of the home –

bedrooms, bathrooms, lounge, office,

garage or even under the stairwell. We

take a look at some clever renovation

ideas that will provide homes of all

sizes with more space. Used correctly,

these methods will ensure you never

need to turn to self-storage as a

decluttering solution.

KITCHEN AND LIVING ROOM

STORAGE

Make the most out of the kitchen space

you have available through kitchen island

drawers, floor-to-ceiling cupboards

or built-in storage. Especially in small

kitchens, dish rack stands create clutter

and a lack of space. One way to resolve

this is to install a slide-out dish drying

cabinet. Butler’s pantries are another

great storage solution to make use of

as you move between your kitchen and

living spaces.

Resene

Bite Me

Resene

Arrowtown

Concealed floor-to-ceiling cabinets are

ideal if you would like ample storage

space for your TV, DVDs and non-display

items. Use display shelves for sentimental

items such as treasured photographs,

ornaments and books. For a touch of

sophistication, consider a built-in wine

rack.

BATHROOM AND LAUNDRY

STORAGE

Organisation plays a key role in bathroom

storage. Adding storage containers to

draws keeps products laid out separately

and easy to see. Built-in shelves, within

the shower cubicle or next to the toilet,

is a great small space storage solution.

A decent sized mirror cabinet is another

worthwhile investment.

If your bathroom and laundry are in the

same room, cavity sliding doors are an

effective way to create some separation.

Another option is to create a laundry

closet. If you have the space, installing

a linen cupboard next to the laundry is

ideal, along with a built-in ironing board.

BEDROOM AND WARDROBE

STORAGE

If you don’t have the luxury of a walk-in

wardrobe, a ceiling-mounted clothes rail

provides easy access to clothes and leaves

space for further storage underneath.

Drawer organisers save a lot of time and

can be used for underwear, pants and

casual tops.

Bed bases that include drawers are a

useful addition to small bedrooms. If you

have a bit more space to work with, place

an ottoman or storage chest at the end

of the bed, which can double as a seat. If

you’re really challenged for space, a foldup

bed could work wonders.

Loft beds work well in children’s rooms

and result in plenty of room underneath

for a desk, reading nook or play area.

Loft beds can be designed from scratch

to include a range of features, including

children’s wardrobes and drawers.

OFFICE AND WORKSPACE

STORAGE

Cube shelving is a great office storage

solution, as everything you need is on

display and is easy to access. Having a

display space on the wall behind your

desk is helpful. This might be in the

form of a display wall or be as simple as

a hanging pinboard. A display space like

this is a useful place to keep a calendar,

reminders and any daily inspiration.

If you only have a small amount of space

to work with, a fold-up desk could be an

efficient choice. If you are attempting

to create an office space within a larger

living area, consider renovating the space

so that you can have your own private

nook to work in.

Resene

Natural

GARAGE STORAGE

Anaglypta

wallpaper

collection

RD7100

Never underestimate the difference

that shelf storage, slat walls and storage

trunks can make to your garage.

Smaller items can be stored in boxes or

containers on wall shelving, while tools

of all sorts can be hung from slat walls.

If you have kids in the house, keep any

dangerous tools stored in a secure

storage box or on high shelving.

UNDER-STAIR STORAGE

Stairways provide a great opportunity

for creative storage. The space

underneath can be used as a reading

nook, library, cupboard, hidden laundry

or desk space - to name a few ideas.

The stairs themselves can be converted

into slide-out drawers or storage units.

If you don’t have stairs to work with,

a built-in bench with cubed storage

shelves underneath can be a useful

space to store and put on shoes. bags

and keys tidy and easy to find.

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Like you,

we’re proudly

building for

New Zealand.

Extending your home

LIVING SPACES

Every day, passionate and dedicated

professionals come together as an industry

for the good of all New Zealanders. It’s

something we’re proud to have been a

trusted part of for over 90 years.

gib.co.nz/homeowner

Homeowner Support

Do you love your location and home but don’t have the space to accommodate your

family’s growing needs? A house extension could be the perfect solution.

With current house prices making it difficult for homeowners

to purchase just what they need, house extensions provide

families with a way to design living spaces that perfectly meet

their requirements. Whether you need more lounge space,

additional bedrooms or improved indoor-outdoor flow, clever

renovation projects can usually adapt your home’s floor plan

to suit your lifestyle.

SAME-LEVEL EXTENSIONS

Ground floor extensions are typically more affordable than

converting a loft or excavating basement space. Smaller

renovations may work out slightly more expensive per square

metre than larger renovations, as many of the overheads

(such as council permits) stay the same. It’s best to get a fixed

price from your builder before the project starts, to ensure

your renovation comes in on budget. If your budget is tight,

focus on the things you really need and start a list of possible

‘wants’ to add to your home further down the track.

If you are trying to achieve more space through your

extension, an open-plan layout with good indoor-outdoor

flow is a great way of creating the perception of more space.

One of the most common alterations is the creation of one

large living/dining/kitchen space. Opening up walls is usually

a straightforward process, however, load-bearing walls may

need to be strengthened which would incur additional costs.

Any electrical or plumbing points within the wall would also

have an impact on the overall cost. Other considerations

might include insulation, cladding and finishing materials.

If you are looking to simply remove a non-load-bearing wall

between two rooms, you may be able to get this taken out and

tidied within one day.

SECOND STOREY EXTENSIONS

Extending up will save your valuable outdoor area and unlock

any potential district or water views, whilst providing clearly

defined living and sleeping zones within your home.

It is best to have a renovation builder on board right from

the get-go. A renovation builder will provide the cost of the

exact work to be undertaken based on the concept drawings

and working drawings translated from your initial ideas.

A renovation builder has overall responsibility to deliver

the results on time and within budget. They will use their

knowledge and expertise to deal with any delays or disruptions

and the many trades and authorities that need to be involved

during the process. Costing a renovation builder into your

budget is highly recommended.

An important aspect of any second storey extension is

choosing stairs that will work within your home. Carpet

wrapped steps are your most cost-effective option when

it comes to stairways. A set of straight stairs are easiest to

build and install and are hence very affordable. Depending

on your space and requirements, however, a set of turning

stairs might be required. If you choose materials such as

hardwood timber or glass for the steps or the balustrade, this

will increase the cost. Floating steps or curved staircases – in

the upper regions when it comes to price – add a bit of drama

and visual impact. Floor level lighting and art embedded into

the steps add to the wow factor.

BASEMENT EXTENSIONS

If you can’t extend outwards or upwards, there is another

way. You could consider a basement building extension or

basement conversion, using the ground beneath your house to

gain that valuable extra space. Basement building extensions

are becoming increasingly popular - the prohibitive cost of

climbing the housing ladder means that extending an existing

property is an appealing option for those looking for extra

space.

Adding a basement to an existing property requires extensive

excavation but it’s a good option for when there’s no other

way to gain extra space. It’s often possible to add the cost of

an extension on to your mortgage, especially if you have a

good amount of equity in your property. A basement building

extension also adds value to your house, making it a great

opportunity for homeowners and investors alike.

There are a number of technical considerations when

building or converting a basement. Primarily, this includes

getting permission from your local planning authority,

meeting building regulations and understanding the type of

soil you’re excavating. Once these necessities are in order,

you need to consider natural light, ventilation, circulation,

and waterproofing.

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A TASTE

OF COLOUR

IMAGE Melanie Jenkins

LIVING SPACES

If it’s one thing you can be sure of, trends never stand

still. We asked the Resene experts to give us a taste of

what’s trending for this season.

PAINTS Resene

1. COLOUR COMBOS. Pairing colours is where it’s at.

Warm greys paired with tan, camel, terracotta and brownblacks,

for instance. “The combination of black on tan or

tan on black is a smart choice,” says interior designer and

colour consultant Debbie Abercrombie. “Also, keep an eye

out for ochres and colours of cracked earth. The key is

seeing colour in combination. Colours isolated are often

not the wow we are looking for. It is how we combine them.”

RESENE SOOTHE

2. MAXIMALISM. Forget minimalism and its

constraints. Make a move towards maximalism – one of

the hottest styles in interior design. A blend of historical

design and colours, layers and textures, and mixed artwork

allows the maximalist to create an interior that not only

melds the patina of time with contemporary decor but

creates an interior that is vastly unique. “Maximalism

allows you to let your imagination loose” says Rebecca

Long, Resene Colour Expert. “The key here is to connect

the dots and play close attention to design elements, such

as repetition and shape, to build your scheme.”

RESENE AVALANCHE

3. GROUNDED NEUTRALS. Earthier, honest

neutrals are right on trend. Choose a colour palette

of earthy browns, tans, warm greys and greens – and

especially terracotta. “Terracotta is making a comeback

and it isn't just limited to pots,” says Rebecca. “Pair colours

such as Resene Entourage and Resene Desperado with

classic timber stains such as Resene Pitch Black and

Resene Natural.”

RESENE ALABASTER

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Is open-plan

right for you?

It’s definitely trendy - but will an open-plan

layout suit your lifestyle?

LIVING SPACES

Thanks to the plethora of home renovation programmes

that populate our various TV channels and the lifestyle

magazines that fill our newsagents’ shelves, the concept

of open-plan living is high on everyone’s agenda. But

despite the impression given on the small screen, it’s

often not as simple as it seems, especially if you’re

hoping to knock down walls and move services around.

If you’re keen to rethink your internal space this spring,

you’ll need a combination of sensitivity, creativity and

meticulous planning.

WILL IT SUIT THE STYLE OF YOUR HOME?

The first consideration is suitability. Open-plan is all

very well, but it’s definitely more suited to certain styles

of properties. Barn conversions and contemporary

houses can accommodate open-plan spaces brilliantly,

but character cottages and period properties are imbued

with a different personality, so it’s vital to ensure that

your plans won’t damage the spirit of the original

building. That said, it’s still possible to rethink the

internal space of an older house to give it a modern flow

that better suits today’s lifestyle requirements. Terraced

houses, for example, are ideal for open-plan living, while

country cottages major on cosy, self-contained rooms.

It’s also worth remembering that restoring an older

home to its former configuration can be expensive, if not

impossible; so it’s advisable to stop, pause and to think

carefully before proceeding.

WHY OPEN-PLAN?

Once you’ve established that your property is suitable

for open-plan, ask yourself why you’re doing it. What are

the objectives for the update? Are you hoping to create

space, increase the amount of natural daylight, build a

closer connection with the garden or simply enable the

whole family to spend more time together?

It’s questionable as to whether rethinking your internal

space will automatically add value, but there’s no

doubt that improving your quality of life is the perfect

motivation for refreshing your configuration. In extreme

circumstances, it may be preferable to move rather than

attempt to force the existing space to deliver what you’re

hoping for, but in the majority of cases, it can be possible

to realise your dream within the existing structure.

WILL YOU NEED MULTIPURPOSE SPACES?

Raised areas, bi-fold doors and furniture such as

bookcases and storage solutions can all help to

create different areas for different activities without

compromising the open-plan philosophy. Colour schemes

can have a huge impact on the look and feel of an openplan

space. Neutral tones provide the opportunity for

splashes of colour in cushions and artwork, while a

strong feature wall can help to define a specific zone.

The type of flooring you select will also have a significant

effect. Hard flooring is practical but can also be noisy.

Rugs are excellent for softening but aren’t practical in

areas used for food preparation or dining, and they can

present a trip hazard for young and old alike, so think

carefully about the floor you would like to lay. Dimmer

switches and concealed lighting are clever ways of subtly

illuminating the space, while the colour and style of your

internal doors will also contribute to the overall effect.

Wooden doors can become a feature of the space, while

painted doors tend to recede into the background.

HAVE YOU THOUGHT ABOUT SAFETY?

One area of an open-plan renovation that must be

considered is fire safety. A downstairs space that

includes an open kitchen presents a greater fire risk,

so the standard advice is that all first-floor bedroom

windows must be egress windows to ensure they act

as escape routes. It’s vital not only to fit smoke alarms

throughout the ground floor and the upstairs landing but

also to test them regularly.

WHAT WILL YOUR IDEAL LAYOUT LOOK LIKE?

The design phase should also include some visualisation

of the end result. Where will you want to eat? What about

the outlook? What will be the focus when you’re relaxing

on the sofa? How will you move around the space? How

far will the dining table be from the kitchen area? How

quiet will the space be? Will you be able to hear the

television or stereo when the dishwasher is running or

the children are playing? Ultimately, open-plan is about

making different rooms work together rather than

creating one cavernous space, and that’s where the real

design skill comes in.

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85


Converting your home

garage to a living space

LIVING SPACES

For most of us, buying a home is a dream come true and, once the boxes are

unpacked, we happily settle into furnishing and embellishing our very own

little haven of comfort and homeliness.

As time goes on, we typically grow in size. Our needs,

wants and desires change and, very often, our little slice of

paradise can’t keep up with our changing world.

In this age of discard and throw away what we no longer

want, the obvious solution to a house you’ve outgrown is to

sell, move on and take the happy memories with you. But

why not take a step back and look at what you have and

invest some time and energy into rezoning, repurposing

and reinventing your existing rooms and spaces and

making them work for you? Do you really need a garage

that once housed a car but is now full of stuff that you

might one-day use?

Converting your garage into a liveable room will not only

add value to your home but will also go a long way toward

meeting the demands of modern-day living. We live in an

age where a study, media room, games room, rumpus room

or teenage retreat are now standard inclusions in the floor

plans of most new builds.

GETTING STARTED

The first step in the process is to decide on the purpose

of the new room. Will it be a bedroom, study or perhaps a

media room? Is there enough available space to achieve the

desired purpose?

You will, firstly, need to make sure the garage is structurally

sound. The foundations will need to be checked to make

sure they can take the increased load of the wall and room

modifications.

Garage walls are typically single brick, so the walls will need

a moisture barrier, which is linked to a damp proof course.

This will then need to be insulated. A good way to do this is

to fit self-insulted plasterboard on treated batons. Another

method would be to lay some internal blockwork with

appropriate insulation in the cavity.

CEILING HEIGHT

Different regions have different rules surrounding ceiling

height for habitable rooms. If your garage ceiling is too low,

you will need to consider some ways to meet these height

requirements. Raising the roof is often the best option as

the concrete slab of a garage floor can be both costly and

difficult to remove. The roof is likely to need a complete

upgrade with insulation to make sure it conforms to

building regulations.

RAINWATER DRAINAGE

Quite often the fall of a driveway is on a slant with rainwater

running into a drain at the end of the driveway and in front

of the garage door. This should be addressed during your

design process to ensure rainwater is diverted away from

the habitable space.

FLOORING CONSIDERATIONS

The concrete slab of a garage floor is usually not built to

residential standards and is unlikely to have a damp proof

membrane (DPM). This will need to be added along with

insulation. As an alternative, you could lay a suspended

timber floor. Consult your local renovation specialist for

the most appropriate solution for your garage.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY

All buildings should be energy efficient and conform

to building regulations in terms of windows, doors,

insulation and general airtightness. The amount of

heat that can pass through the glass and framework

is measured as a U-Value (rate of heat transfer) and

should not exceed the stated requirements. You will

need to make sure there is sufficient ventilation in the

room in accordance with building regulations.

CONSENT

As the garage will no longer house your car, you

will need to check that your house does not have

a restriction on the removal of your garage, as this

impacts parking requirements. Different regions

have different requirements surrounding garage

conversion consents. Check out our article on

“Applying for Consent” for further guidance or

consult your local specialist.

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LIVING SPACES

Indoor outdoor

flow ideas

Having coordinated indoor-outdoor flow in your home will make it easier to

entertain, and creates a spacious chill-out space for you and your loved ones.

Here are some ideas on how to set up your ideal indoor-outdoor haven.

GO GREEN INSIDE

Featuring green hues inside your home automatically

connects the interior to the garden and to nature.

There’s a host of green options to choose from,

including painted or wallpapered feature walls and

carpets or pot plants strategically dotted around

the home. Alternatively, you could add more

delicate accents such as cushions, green-patterned

upholstery or decorative items and ornaments, like

vases.

CREATE FLOOR FLOW

Having your indoor and adjacent outdoor flooring

at the same level, as well as choosing the same

flooring material, can hugely improve flow; as it

creates the illusion that you’re in the same space.

Stone is a robust, natural and eye-pleasing material

that’s perfect for creating a seamless indooroutdoor

flow. If you have a deck, then timber or

wood-like vinyl inside the kitchen and lounge will

add continuity.

What’s the state of your

switchboard?

We have been in Kiwi homes for over 80 years with connected and

reliable electrical solutions.

Our innovative products are made to keep what’s important to you safe

and sound. If you’re thinking about renovating, let an electrician have a

look at your switchboard to check if it’s up to scratch before you begin.

You can rely on us to continue to create clever electrical products that

help New Zealand homes become smarter and safer.

Ask your electrician for PDL.

OPEN IT UP

The problem with many of the more established

abodes is that their backs connect to the garden only

via teeny windows – or a windowless wall. The result:

zero indoor-outdoor flow. This situation is easily

remedied by installing or replacing smaller windows

with larger ones – or, to really open up the space

and allow an influx of light as well as easy access,

consider sliding or French doors.

TAKE YOUR HOME OUTSIDE

Another way to improve indoor-outdoor flow and

make your alfresco dining experience more userfriendly

is by simply taking your kitchen outside.

Outdoor kitchens are becoming all the rage; as are

outdoor ovens, fridges, rotisseries and other culinary

appliances.

OPT FOR AN ALL-SEASONS LAYOUT

It’s always a great idea to have a combination

of covered and uncovered outdoor spaces. But

even when it rains and you don’t have a covered

entertainment area outside, you can still connect

to your garden by reworking the interior layout.

Instead of having the dining table in the kitchen

far away from the garden, shift it into a spot with

an outdoor view within the living room or lounge.

GO FOR WOVEN FURNITURE

Woven furniture looks the part both inside a

home and in the garden, so dotting a few tables

and chairs both inside and out will connect the

two spaces. Opt for modern synthetic rattan and

wicker furniture – not only does it look ‘real’, but

it’s also weatherproof and easy to keep clean.

pdl.co.nz/safety

89

Outdoor

Living

Putting extra thought into the exterior

of your home can significantly improve

its value and transform your day-today

lifestyle. From decking and paving

through to gardens and inspirational

backyards, here is our compact guide to

transforming your outdoor area.

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Outdoor checklist


GARDEN

Compost

Edible vegetable garden

Landscaped lawn

Artificial grass

Retaining walls or terraced sections

Raised garden beds

Native plants

Flower garden/s

Deciduous trees

Tree or plant removal

Irrigation

Automated irrigation systems

Rainwater system

Greywater system

ENTERTAINING

Decking - wood, composite, bamboo, stone, concrete, brick

Patio - concrete pavers, stone, brick, ceramic tiles

Built-in seating

Outdoor fireplace

Outdoor oven

Outdoor kitchen

BBQ

Swimming pool

Spa pool

Outdoor shower

Outdoor entertainment system

Kids play area - playground, sports, playhouse etc.

Pergola or outdoor room/coverage

FUNCTIONALITY - SAFETY FEATURES

New fencing - vinyl, wood, stone, metal, concrete, composite

Gates - vinyl, wood, stone, metal, concrete, composite

Automated gates

Outdoor lighting

Smart-bulb lighting

Automated home security system

Indoor/outdoor flow

Workshop

Firewood shed

Pathways

Sun and warmth optimisation

Space for pets

Privacy

Wheelchair accessibility to your home


• What are my main priorities within this

landscaping project?

• What style do I gravitate toward? (e.g. coastal,

native, luxury, rustic etc.)

• Are my ideas going to match the style of my home?

• What is my budget range?

• Have you checked your calendar for the most

convenient time of year to carry out a landscaping

project?

• Have you considered how this landscaping work

might affect your lifestyle?

• Have you considered the climate, orientation, soil

type and other local conditions like wind, rainfall

and drainage?

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OUTDOOR LIVING


ALL IMAGES the F5 Residence in Palm Springs by AR&D Architects Ltd.

OUTDOOR EXTERIOR LIVING & OUTDOORS

Xeriscapes

Think cactus', Palm Springs and raw textures that

simplify dry and timeless landscape design roots.

IMAGES Michal Utterback

With recreation time at a premium and a

growing global concern for the supply of water,

savvy gardeners are adopting xeriscaping

principles into every zone of their landscape

design. Until recently, xeriscapes have most

commonly been a feature around commercial

sites, apartment buildings, roundabouts and

traffic islands. As water conservation awareness

grows, xeriscaping in backyards is catching on.

WHAT IS A XERISCAPE?

The term ‘xeriscape’ was coined in America after a

prolonged drought in Denver Colorado led locals to look

for a less resource-dependent way of gardening. Xeros

is a Greek word that means dry. A xeriscape works with

‘nature’, employing the natural flow of water through

the landscape as the basis for water conservation.

Creative xeriscaping not only conserves water through

plant groupings, mulching and the use of native plants;

it also keeps watering and weeding to a minimum and

negates the use of any chemical fertilizers.

WHAT PLANTS WORK WELL IN A XERISCAPE?

A xeriscape does not have to be comprised exclusively

of natives or drought-tolerant vegetation. By ‘hydrozoning’

or grouping plants with similar water needs

together in your landscape plans, xeriscapes can

accommodate a range of plant options to achieve

an overall look. Plants that require more water are

placed in a shady spot or closer to a water source.

With careful planning, contouring and understanding

of natural drainage patterns, the landscape itself can

be used to fully guide water to areas of the garden

where it will be most beneficial. Terracing can stem

soil erosion while mounds and berms at the edges of

the garden will help redirect water flow back into the

garden.

A thick layer of mulch keeps the moisture in and weeds

out. A layer of leaves, seaweed, straw, compost, bark or

gravel will also help keep moisture in and help prevent

erosion. Mulch should be at least 6cm thick and applied

twice a year. Lawns are water guzzlers, so they are not

usually desired in desert conditions.

WHEN IS A GOOD TIME TO GET STARTED?

Widespread droughts are becoming more common

and, with water-intensive agriculture and industries

creating growing demands on our rivers and aquifers,

water is becoming the new gold. Now is a good time to

start saving.

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Paving solutions for your home

Modern manufacturing has made it possible to combine a

landscaper’s three favourite words - attractive, affordable and

durable - into single slabs of hardscaping material.

OUTDOOR LIVING

Whether you are considering paving, decking or building

a pathway in your garden; make sure you know about

these modern solutions before you begin selecting your

materials.

PORCELAIN STONEWARE PAVERS

Porcelain stoneware pavers are slowly but surely coming of

age since they emerged around six years ago. Slip-resistant

and extra-durable, they are easy to install and maintain, and

they’re also extremely versatile.

The tiles are made from ultra-fine clay and are inherently

non-porous due to their high density, which makes them

highly resistant to stains, water and general wear and tear.

Their thickness also means they can handle high pressure

and makes them ideal for any exterior applications and heavy

pedestrian traffic. They don’t require sealing either and can

easily be cleaned with a broom and a hose.

COMPOSITE DECKING

Consisting of a combination of recycled wood fibres and

recycled plastic, composite decking is super-robust and

resistant to decay, giving it a much longer lifespan than

wooden decks.

Solid composite decking, available as boards and tiles, is a

premium, eco-friendly composite flooring product that’s also

super low-maintenance.

Being ‘solid’, it won’t crack, warp or move like many of the

hollow products on the market – and, unlike timber decking,

it comes in a range of prefabricated natural timber colours,

so there’s no need to stain or paint it. Better still: it’s easy to

clean, and the only TLC it needs is a few soap washes per year.

What’s more, Solid Composite Decking is slip-resistant

(making it ideal for entranceways), plus it contains mould

inhibitors and is free from formaldehyde and other harmful

chemicals found in treated timber. And you don’t have

to worry about nails popping up and potentially hurting

someone. That’s because a hidden clip fixing system holds the

boards together - making it easier and quicker to install than

timber.

PERMEABLE SURFACES

Permeable surfaces provide a sustainable solution,

they are designed to effectively manage stormwater

runoff by filtering water through to underlying

draining systems, while also filtering out pollutants.

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OUTDOOR LIVING

ASK OUR EXPERTS


frequently asked landscaping questions. Here’s what they had to say.

When it comes to backyard makeovers,

it never hurts to ask an expert. Here,

specialists from Zones Landscaping

offer their top tips on designing new

outdoor areas.

IMAGES Scott Espie PROJECTS Matt & Boyd Gillespie

Q

How often should I water my garden?

A

Q

Will a sloping backyard impact my

landscape design?

A

When we come on-site, there are a few fundamental

things that we have to check. Levels will really dictate

how we move forward with a design. We look at

whether or not there are slopes on a property. It’s all

about how we create this flow from the house. So we

use levels to dictate the start of our designs. That might

mean making big, grand staircases down to a property’s

bottom levels or even cutting a retaining just to create

flat, level areas. Levels are a key fundamental of how

we approach the initial stages of a design.

VAUGHAN MACKENZIE-BROWN

Zones Landscape Architect in Auckland, NZ

Q

What kind of shelter should I consider?

A

Rain, wind and even burning sun can impact your

enjoyment of your outdoor kitchen. An overhead

covering can ensure you can use the space yearround.

Options include a full or partial roof, pergola

or sailcloth. A very popular option for outdoor shelter

is the use of louvres, which can be opened or closed

depending on weather conditions. Consider also

the inclusion of vertical screens for additional rain

protection and privacy. These structures can also help

to define the space.

NICHOLA VAGUE

Zones Landscape Architect in Tauranga, NZ

Usually when the top of the soil (about an inch) is dry.

In the hot summer months, it can be daily. We were

given advice from our lawn contractor and nurseries

contractor that the best thing to do is water deeply

about three times per week rather than every day. In

winter, you don’t need to water as often due to rain.

Just check the dryness of the soil.

TRACEY BARKER

Zones Landscaping Specialist in Auckland, NZ

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Edible gardens

Successfully grow your own food

with this beginner's guide

If you’d like “grabbing a snack” to be as easy as

stepping into your backyard, look no further. Follow

this guide and you’ll be enjoying some backyard

treats in no time!

OUTDOOR LIVING

Persea Gratissima/Avocado

Arachis Hypogaea/Peanut

Mangifera Indica/Mango

Chenopodium/Quinoa Cicer Arietinum/Chickpea Ananas Comosus/Pineapple

Avocados are a hardy plant

withstanding temperatures as low as

-50°C. But avocado lovers be warned,

patience is required, as these trees

can take up to 5 years to bear fruit.

Perseverance is rewarded, however, as

a mature 7-year-old tree can produce

up to 200 avocados, annually.

• Sun exposure: Full sun

• Height: 9.1m – 18.3m

• Width: 6.1m – 24.5m

• Native to: Central America, South

America

• Soil: pH acidic, neutral, alkaline

• Soil drainage: Well-drained

• Soil type: Clay, loam, sand

• Growth rate: Medium

• Water requirements: Drought

tolerant, average water

Packed with protein and good fats,

peanuts make for a great snack. On

average, the ripening time is between

80 and 150 days after planting. With

the seeds growing underground, you

will need to remove the whole plant

when harvesting. Although one plant

might only yield a pitiful amount of

peanuts, it does have a fun, novelty

value, that the kids will love

• Sun exposure: Full sun, partial sun

• Height: 25.4cm - 30.5cm

• Width: 0.3m - 0.9m

• Native to: South America

• Soil: pH acidic, neutral


• Soil type: Loam, sand

• Growth rate: Fast

• Water requirements: Average

water

These trees need full sun and a

warmer climate to really thrive. Make

sure you leave plenty of room for

your tree to grow as it can become

quite big. Finding a sheltered spot in

your garden that gets optimum sun

and where the soil can drain well will

have you receiving delicious fruit all

year round in no time.

• Sun exposure: Full sun,

• Height: 9.1m - 30.5m

• Width: 4.6m - 27.4m

• Native to: India, Melanesia

• Soil: pH acidic, neutral, alkaline






A delicious, nutty substitute for rice;

teaming with B vitamins, protein and

minerals to help you feel in tip-top

shape - quinoa makes a nutritious

addition to a variety of meals. You

will need to plant at least 10 seedlings

to make it worth your while. Quinoa

enjoys sunny days and cooler evenings.

The plants are ready to harvest once

the stalks go brown and the leaves dry

out.


• Height: 0.5m – 2m

• Width: 0.2m – 1m

• Native to: South America



• Soil type: Clay, Loam, Sand


• Water requirements: Average water

Chickpeas are a very versatile food.

Throw them into a pesto salad or

blend them into falafel for a proteinpacked

meal. The beans need a fair

amount of sun to really get growing

and are ready to harvest 100 days

after planting. One plant will yield

a handful or so of chickpeas, so if

hummus is on the agenda, it might be

a good idea to grow 4-5 plants.


• Height: 20.3cm - 101.6cm

• Width: 25.4cm - 114.3cm

• Native to: Mediterranean, Turkey,

Africa, Southern Asia, Western Asia







Delicious and refreshing, pineapples

are a fantastic source of antioxidants,

vitamin C and manganese. Commonly

grown in parts of South America,

pineapple plants love the sun and

warmer climates. Making sure

they’re not exposed to temperatures

under 50°C would be beneficial but

they can withstand temperatures as

low as -20°C.


• Height: 0.9m - 1.5m

• Width: 0.9m - 1.2m

• Native to: Hybrid origin, South

America







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Outdoor rooms

What to consider when building an outdoor room

OUTDOOR LIVING

The purpose of an outdoor room is to add another

living space to your house without the need to

undertake an indoor building renovation or

addition. From a modest wooden deck through to

an outdoor retreat complete with a kitchen, lounge

and audio-visual system – the only limit is your

imagination. So before you start planning, consider

these elements for your outdoor room…

PURPOSE

How do you plan to use the space? Is it mainly for

cooking or alfresco dining? A dedicated space for

entertaining? Play area for kids or a teenage retreat?

Maybe you want to create a space that’s purely for

privacy and relaxation… If you have a small kitchen

or lounge area, an outdoor room is a hugely valuable

addition – for both lifestyle and resale value.

LAYOUT

Considering your outdoor area and budget, think

about your space and how you will access and use it.

Most outdoor rooms or pergolas are just under 20m2.

Draw up a sketch with the various items you want to

include (e.g. table and chairs, barbeque, sun lounger

etc), drawn roughly to scale. Then allow extra space

for traffic flow around those areas. As a rule of thumb,

allow a minimum space of 4m x 4m if you want to fit in

a standard 4-seater outdoor table and chairs. Ideally,

you’ll want a north-facing aspect that catches plenty

of sun, that is out of the wind and has minimal traffic

noise. And it should definitely be a “room with a view”.

Will it be separate from the house – more akin to a

pool-house - or one that’s attached to the house, loggiastyle?

When attaching a structure to the home or in

close proximity, consider the architectural style of the

property, the cladding, colours, materials; and make a

conscious decision regarding the structural elements

of the outdoor room. Carrying the design principles

you’ve applied inside your home to the outside will

create a seamless flow and a sense of connectedness.

SIZE

How big should you go? A good rule of thumb is to keep

it comparable to the rooms inside your house – your

outdoor room should be no bigger than the largest

room in your house. This will keep it proportionate to

the scale of your home – a very tiny space next to a

large home, or vice versa, could easily feel awkward.

You can also use your interior to help you plan the

layout. Remember, you’ll need enough space to house

your furniture, cooking equipment and to comfortably

circulate.

LOUVRES

Louvre roofs are a must-have for homeowners who

want their outdoor rooms to pack some real punch.

These roofs can be opened and shut to adapt to the

weather conditions. They allow for the best optimising

of light and shade. But, while they are attractive and

allow for year-round outdoor living, they take a bit of

investment. Other outdoor roof options include shade

sails, awnings and canter levered umbrellas.

TECHNOLOGY

Given that outdoor rooms are either built for relaxation

or entertainment, there’s a vast array of new technology

to ensure you’ll never have to rouse yourself from that

comfy lounger. Louvres with automated sensors that

adjust themselves according to the weather are just the

start. You can incorporate home automation systems

to control the lighting, heating and cooling, music and

entertainment.

If you choose to, pretty much everything can be

controlled from your smartphone or iPad. Having

your own open-air cinema is now a realistic option

– you could start with a white wall and an entry-level

projector. And think carefully about lighting, heating

and cooling options – you don’t want to be too hot in

summer and too cold in winter (the point of an outdoor

room is to use it all year round). Think heaters, fans,

outdoor fire pits, concealable sliding doors or shutters.

OUTDOOR KITCHENS

Possibilities start with a glammed up BBQ that can be

built into an outdoor kitchen bench and go on to include

a full kitchen with hot plates, a fridge and a wine

fridge. Wood fires are extremely popular in outdoor

entertaining areas as they provide a heat source and

can extend the seasons.

Outdoor kitchens have come ahead in leaps and

bounds in recent years, with ovens, fridges, sinks and

other appliances all developed for outdoor use. You

can now have the ultimate outdoor kitchen, down to

the last utensil, without having to go back inside. This

requires built-in storage and benchtops, a sink with hot

and cold water, preferably a dishwasher, and plenty of

refrigeration.

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HOW TO

Save water

during summer

COMMON TYPES OF IRRIGATION SYSTEMS

Irrigation systems are a great way to maintain the health of your

garden, especially if you are on a busy schedule.

OUTDOOR EXTERIOR LIVING & OUTDOORS

With people throughout the world becoming increasingly conscious of water usage,

there are simple changes we can all make in the garden to conserve water - and the bills

that come with it. From monitoring your water usage to installing rainwater catchment

systems, here are some clever ways to keep your garden hydrated.

WATER TANKS

Water tank systems are a natural and safe way

to water your garden. Rainwater harvesting

involves collecting, storing and using rainwater for

gardening, cleaning and, when filtered correctly;

drinking. Installing a water tank on your property

is not only environmentally-friendly, it also eases

the strain on your wallet by lowering your water

bill. Rainwater tanks are becoming an increasingly

popular trend across the globe and come in a

variety of shapes and sizes: from slimline tanks to

large underground concrete tanks. Alternatively,

for a simple garden watering system, you might

only need a small rain barrel. Once installed,

rainwater tanks are easy to maintain, can be used

for irrigation, reduce floods and soil erosion, and

can be used for almost any watering purpose.

AUTOMATED IRRIGATION SYSTEMS

Installing an automated irrigation system

will ensure your plants get the water they

need without any excess water being wasted.

Automated timers and sensors manage

irrigation so that plants are watered at ideal

times - a great option for busy families, full-time

workers or just to keep your garden healthy

while you’re on holiday! There are a range of

automatic control systems available that include

wifi timers, rain sensors, freeze systems and

customisable settings.

WATER MINDFULLY

Zones Landscaping recommends the following

steps to save water during the summer heat.

Drip line irrigation

Drip line irrigation delivers water straight into the

soil, feeding plant roots directly.

Sprinklers

Sprinklers spray gardens from above ground,

meaning that distribution efficiency can be

impacted by the wind.

Drip tape irrigation

Drip tape, another form of drip irrigation,

delivers irrigation through a thin tube.

Soaker hoses

Similar to drip irrigation, soaker hoses feed water

directly into the soil and save on water usage.

GREYWATER SYSTEMS

Another option is to install a greywater system.

Greywater is household wastewater (e.g. water

from your shower or laundry). Greywater systems

redirect this water to a storage tank and, from

there, this wastewater can be reused in your

garden through a connected irrigation system.

While a great way of reusing water, greywater

systems do require sometimes complicated

installation and maintenance. Wearing gloves is

recommended when dealing with greywater. It

should also never be used to water edible plants.

1. Adjust your sprinklers so you are only

watering the lawn or garden, and not the

house or surrounding driveway and paths.

2. Check the absorption of water in your lawn

and/or garden. See if the water is running

off the lawn easily and, if it is, you can split

watering time into shorter periods to allow

for better absorption, as opposed to wasting

water with runoff.

3. Look for moisture before watering, as the

plant may not need it.

4. Use mulch around the base of plants/trees

as this helps to keep moisture in.

Micro spray irrigation

Manual irrigation

This type of watering happens above ground

and is easily impacted by the wind

Watering via the garden hose/a watering can

is common but it’s far less efficient than other

irrigation methods.

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Artificial or real grass?

Weighing up the pros and cons

OUTDOOR LIVING

Vast improvements in the manufacturing and appearance of artificial turf mean

the green grass of home may not be quite what it seems. Determine what your

lawn will be used for, how often it will be used and the maintenance required so

that you can choose the best lawn for your lifestyle.

IMAGES AND PROJECTS: Matthew WIlkinson

With shrinking section sizes and the popularity

of low-maintenance gardens growing,

backyards are undergoing a radical change –

one that’s seeing the lawnmower banished and

the weekends free to chill out.

Today’s artificial turf is a far cry from products

originally produced over 50 years ago for allweather

sports grounds. As Zones Landscaping

Specialist Nigel Ramsden explains, “There

have been great strides in the look and feel

of artificial grass and it’s now almost like the

real thing. That’s given homeowners a lot more

confidence to install it in larger and more

visible areas of their gardens.”

With pros and cons for both synthetic,

seeded and roll-out natural lawns; what do

homeowners need to consider? “Think about

what it’s to be used for - children playing, pets

or just to add atmosphere to the landscape?”-

says Nigel

The size of the space is also a consideration,

says Zones Landscaping’s Tracey Barker.

“Properties like townhouses and apartments

have very small outdoor areas and often no

access for a lawnmower, so artificial turf is

becoming a more popular choice.” Shade cast

by tall buildings can also make artificial grass a

smart option.

WHAT ARE MY NATURAL LAWN

OPTIONS? Establishing a lawn can be

done by spreading seed manually with a seed

spreader at a minimal cost. However, this

method can cause the lawn to have sparse

patches and another spreading of seeds may

be required later on. Lawn by hydroseeding

starts out as a combination of water, grass seed,

fertiliser and protective mulch mixed together

and sprayed onto prepared soil.

Although a cheaper option to a ready lawn, the

same amount of ground preparation is required.

A ready lawn is appealing for those who want an

instant quality product rather than waiting for

one to germinate from seed.

WHAT SORT OF PREPARATION

IS INVOLVED IN INSTALLING A

READY LAWN? Most ready lawn suppliers

provide pricing by ‘on-site quoting’ due to the

uniqueness of each property. However, there

are a couple that have pricing listed on their

websites. In this case, you will need to know the

square meterage (multiply the length by the

width) of your lawn space in order to calculate

the cost of the ready lawn, which is mostly

sold by the square metre.

Taking into account: the house, outbuildings,

decking, gardens and pathways; the average

urban property can take up to an estimated

90 square metres of lawn. Preparation of

the site will depend on its existing state but,

at the very least, perennial weeds will need

spraying and will then need to be left to take

effect for about three weeks. A large part of

your cost can be in the site’s preparation and

a challenging terrain may require machinery

to perform the earthworks. However, it is

important that this stage of the project is

done correctly to ensure the ground levels

are correct, including the topsoil so that the

finished product will not be left with patches

and ground depressions.

NATURAL GRASS CAN LAST

FOREVER – BUT WHAT ABOUT

ARTIFICIAL TURF?

Expect anything from 15 to 20 years out of

your synthetic lawn. This largely depends on

use and care. How durable will the surface

need to be? What’s the intended use? It’s

also important to check the surface and

installation warranties provided.

WHAT ABOUT ENVIRONMENTAL

IMPACTS? Natural grass absorbs carbon

dioxide and acts as a filter for rainwater

flowing into the groundwater. It also naturally

regenerates. It’s cool on the feet – and it’s hard

to beat the smell of a newly mown lawn.

On the other hand, artificial turf (while often

manufactured using recycled materials)

is a petroleum-based product that is not

biodegradable and will ultimately end up in a

landfill. It’s heat absorbent and can feel hot to

touch. On the plus side, it is permeable.

Opinions are divided: Nigel is finding a

growing number of homeowners are after easy

maintenance whereas, for Tracey, cost is usually

the decider.

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Inspirational

homes

Careful planning and project management

are key ingredients to any successful

renovation - but it all starts with inspiration!

If you are looking for a few unique home

designs to draw ideas from, look no further

than these personalised home designs from

around the world.

Select every product for

your renovation or building

project in one showroom.

Touch & feel products from

over 90 suppliers. Discover

the best materials for every

part of your home, from

your driveway to your

benchtop.

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165 The Strand, Parnell, Auckland | homeideas.co.nz | @homeideasauckland | 09 303 4755 | Free Parking | Open 7 days


UNITED STATES

CLARKSVILLE’S

MULLET HOUSE

True to its name, this mullet house renovation maintains its original

facade while a modern and creative three-storey build was introduced

to the home’s rear. Architect Matt Fajkus, from Matt Fajkus Architecture,

leads us through the home’s history, design and completion.

WORDS Mina Phillips IMAGES Charles Davis Smith ARCHITECT Matt Fajkus Architecture. LLC

The town of Clarksville, which surrounds this mullet house

renovation, holds a significant amount of history. Founded

in 1871 by Charles Clark, Clarksville is the oldest surviving

settlement to be founded by a freed slave. As a result, the

town is on the National Registrar of Historic Places. “The

original bungalow, built in 1938, was deemed a contributing

structure to this historic place, and therefore could not be

removed, even though it was in severe disrepair,” tells Matt.

According to Matt, the bungalow had been abandoned

for years. “The derelict structure was in such bad shape

that a horror movie was filmed inside. However, we could

envision great potential in the house - it’s an interesting

lot. Perhaps the most attractive aspect of the existing lot

and house was the latent potential in the structure.”

With permission from Austin’s Historic Landmark

Commission, Matt and his team began working on the

renovation project, demolishing everything but the front

facade of the house, which they completely preserved.

Bricks were kept from the demolition and re-used on

the exterior of the build, in collaboration with the Old

West Austin Neighborhood Association. So that he could

modernise the rear of the house without altering the

original facade, Matt decided to use a “mullet house”

approach to the design. The landscape also worked well

with this approach.

“The slope from the front to the back of the lot was used as

a primary formal inspiration. This naturally led to opening

up the back of the house design with more mass, including

a walk-out basement on the lower level, a floating deck

at the middle level, and a new upper level for bedrooms”,

explains Matt.

Central to the home’s functionality is the staircase, which

was designed to connect all three levels of the home. “The

end of the staircase presents unique light and views, all

while connecting the old and new, creating a meaningful

home for a young family”, notes Matt.

Wherever possible, the history of the home has been

included in the renovation. This includes using repurposed

framing lumber which was taken from the original house

and used as a finishing material within the newly built

interior. Interesting final touches include a reading nook,

a two-storey graffiti wall and a guest house. Expansive

modern windows bathe the interior in all-day sunlight,

which is accentuated by lighter colours, materials, and

furnishings within the home’s larger spaces. “The clients

have a colourful and playful style that blends old and

new; including antique furniture, modern cabinetry and

contemporary fixtures”, says Matt.

After six years of witnessing the design and build, client

David and his family are now happily settled into the house

and neighbourhood.

INSPIRATIONAL HOMES

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“The derelict structure was in such bad shape

that a horror movie was filmed inside. However,

we could envision great potential in the house”

Project Details:

Project duration: 6 years

Project budget: $1 million USD

Actual spend: $1.25 million USD

Favourite feature: A dead tree on

the lot was milled to construct the dining

table, increasing the connection of the

newly-designed intervention to its original

surroundings

INSPIRATIONAL HOMES

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UNITED STATES

BROOKLYN TOWNHOUSE

This brownstone townhouse was initially in an unlivable condition. Seeing

its potential, the homeowners brought it back to life with the help of

architectural design company Frances Mildred.

INSPIRATIONAL HOMES

WORDS Mina Phillips IMAGES Nicole Franzen ARCHITECT Frances Mildred

Hailed by The New York Times and Time Out Magazine

for its bustling, lively family atmosphere and small-town

feel, Park Slope is a tree-lined neighbourhood that gives

Central Park a run for its money. The vibrant location

boasts a range of historic brownstone townhouses; one

of which recently went through a complete interior

transformation.

Brian Papa and Lauren Maccuaig are the founders and

directors of Frances Mildred, the architectural design

company which carried out this renovation project.

Named after Brian’s grandmother, Frances Mildred is a

company inspired to help clients achieve their interior

aspirations through new and creative designs - something

this derelict historical building was in desperate need of.

“The townhouse was in a state of total disrepair when it

was purchased”, says Lauren. “However, there were details

that reflected the history of the property that we wanted

to preserve in order to leave the authentic feeling of a

Brooklyn brownstone. The goal was to restore the house

with as many original details as possible while updating

the layout and finishes for modern living.”

No space was left untouched within this renovation. The

exterior of the house required repairs and updating. The

interior was scattered with damage and there was a hole

in the entryway ceiling. Aside from repairs, the gloomy

interior was in need of increased natural lighting and a

concise colour scheme.

“We carefully analyzed the original details of the house

to determine what was salvageable, what needed to be

recreated and when it made more sense to start from

scratch”, explains Lauren.

Among the salvageable features was the original living

room doorway, the fireplace and the doors of a wardrobe

which were reused in the family room.

“We spent a lot of time working on the layout of the home

and really understanding how it would be experienced in

reality versus on a floor plan”, recalls Lauren. “We wanted

the spaces to feel appropriately proportioned and to have

a circulation that matches a modern family’s lifestyle.”

The new design includes room transformations and new

flooring throughout. What was originally a bathroom

was converted into a home office. The initial kitchen

was redesigned into a master bathroom - featuring a

marble-top double vanity and claw-foot bathtub. While

Lauren and Brian wanted to achieve a luxury finish, the

limited project budget meant that they needed to find a

few frugal solutions. “Deciding where to spend the budget

and where to save on the budget was tricky and required

constant evaluation”, says Lauren. “It’s always challenging

weaving modern infrastructure into an old house. Careful

consideration was taken when deciding where and how

equipment was placed so that it felt seamlessly integrated

into a historic home.”

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INSPIRATIONAL HOMES

Six months of design and a further eight months of construction

brought out the home’s true potential. A new floorplan now flows

through crisp, light-filled rooms.“The program of the house

came together very nicely”, approves Lauren. “In a relatively

small footprint, we were able to fit five bedrooms, three full

bathrooms and a generous kitchen that meets the needs of a

modern family. The house has a great flow to it. The aesthetic

of the décor is calming and modern, which pairs beautifully

with the historical details of the house. It has a decidedly urban

feel but is also a haven from the chaos of urban life.” The final

look is a grand transformation from the original exterior and

interior. “The kitchen is really our favourite room”, says Lauren.

“The layout works very well within the original footprint of the

house. The finishes are soft and textured. The light throughout

the day is beautiful as it bounces off the adjacent properties.

It looks out over the backyard. It’s a very happy and calming

space.”

Project Details:

Project duration: 14 months

Advice: Renovating townhouses is

not for the faint of heart. There are often

unforeseen conditions that become

apparent once demolition begins. It’s

important to understand that, especially

when working within a limited budget.

Biggest challenge: Achieving the

design within a limited budget.

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Re-inventing the way people

access water outdoors

ISSN 2230-5599

The Aquor New Zealand range incorporates the best

of form meets function. Forget threading on garden

hoses and adaptors every time you need to access

water outside. Just plug in the hose connector, water

flow starts immediately when you connect, and stops

instantly when you disconnect.

Installation restrictions apply, not currently approved for use in

lined walls. For more information visit hydroflow.co.nz

Building or renovating?

Protect your home and keep it happy-as with

a DVS Home Ventilation System.

Fight the winter chills and summer allergies

with DVS - Fresh air in, stale air out.

FREE CONSULTATION

Installation restrictions apply, not currently approved for use in

lined walls. For more

0800

information

387

visit

387

hydroflow.co.nz

Designer

Angelise Mariu

Design Director

Barry Bloomfield

Editor

Franchelle Oughton

Production Manager

Scott Espie

Writer/Sub-editor

Mina Phillips

Contributors

Anya Kussler , Carol Watson, Clare Chapman Jason Burgess, Jessica Clifton, Mina Phillips, Nadia

Sakey, Patricia Moore, Persephone Nicholas, Philip Saich, Sara Lowrie, Stephanie Matheson,

Advertising & Editorial Enquiries

Franchelle Oughton - editor@renovatemagazine.co.nz

Illustrator

Sara Lowrie

DVS.CO.NZ

Publishing Directors

Jon Bridge, Chris Caiger, Barry Bloomfield

Accounts

Alice Kong - alicek@traffic.net.nz

BUILDING OUTDOOR

SPACES WHERE

MEMORIES ARE MADE

Cover Photography

Scott Espie

At Pacific Group we believe

in providing a convenient,

professional approach.

Whether the intended

application be for functional

purposes as a vibrant focal

point, or a combination of both.

Arched & Flat Roofs

Fences & Gates

Decorative Screens

Notice to advertisers

Renovate magazine (Traffic NZ Ltd.) uses due care and diligence in the preparation of this magazine but is not

responsible or liable for any mistakes, misprints, omissions or typographical errors. Renovate magazine prints

advertisements provided to the publisher, but gives no warranty and makes no representation to the truth, accuracy

or sufficiency of any description, photograph or statement. Renovate magazine accepts no liability for any loss that

may be suffered by any person who relies either wholly or in part upon any description, photograph or statement

contained herein. Renovate magazine reserves the right to refuse any advertisement for any reason. The views

expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher or editor. All material gathered in creating

Renovate magazine is copyright 2017 Renovate magazine. All rights reserved in all media. No part of this magazine

may be reproduced in any form without the express written permission of the publisher or editor.

TRAFFIC NZ LTD PO Box 37-941 Parnell, Auckland 1151, New Zealand

Phone: 09 303 0670

Our aim is to provide you an

outdoor solution to meet your

individual requirements.

A variety of tailor-made styles and designs

Contact us: Tel (06) 843 4575

admin@pacificpowdercoating.co.nz

www.pacificpowdercoating.co.nz

118 ISSUE 031

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Good reasons to

choose Zones

Great design at fixed prices

A plan that suits your home

Efficient project management

Outdoor living specialists

One point of contact

Zones is a complete design and build landscaping

service and has a proven process for taking

customers from concept to completion.

www.zones.co.nz | 0800 30 10 20

www.zoneslandscaping.com | 1833 684 0283

renovate-mag.com

HANDBOOK

A practical, inspirational and thorough

guide to creating your dream home;

Renovate exists to support you with

every stage of your project.

With a specific focus on kitchens,

bathrooms and indoor-outdoor living

areas, Issue 31 of Renovate is a must-have

during the renovation planning process.

Brought to you by the experts behind

Refresh Renovations and Zones

Landscaping, this issue is packed to

the brim with beautiful home and

garden ideas.

Brought to you by:

ISSUE 31

Renovate Handbook Issue 31

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