Renovation

MA & Rob Tombs asked Dominic to suggest some internal improvements to their recently purchased house in Wadestown, Wellington.

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It’s a 1960’s modern beauty - big timber windows flooding the interior with light and wonderful Wellington views, a simple low-pitched roof and all finished with original 60’s claddings and trim inside and out.

 

The floor plan was really cellular, with poky little rooms in funny places.  It needed some replanning, and the budget was tight.

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We agreed that all those simple 60’s details had plenty of charm, so why update them?  A simple rearrangement of the plan would suffice.  We reused the old doors with the original hardware, and any new trim exactly matched the original profiles.  Walls were taken away to create an open plan and make the most of the view.  The master bedroom got a walk-in robe and an ensuite bathroom.  An alteration in keeping with the character of the house would be best.

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Scandinavia provided some inspiration for the new insertions.  The kitchen now has an amazing view and plenty of sunshine.  The white composite stone island bench has a subtle bend and with stainless steel adjoining the cooktop.  Panels are a mix of plywood and shimmering white Melteca Hi-Gloss.  The stairway now features a free form screen in blonde timber, with a secret door to conceal a cupboard.  A large glazed panel now slides across to enclose the separate living room where the new gas fire keeps it cosy.

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Matthew Palmer Construction did a fantastic job of the building work.  Matt understood what we were trying to achieve and his finishing work was superb.