A “bitsy” house in Whataupoko, Gisborne, has been well and truly transformed into a functional four-bedroom country home that’s fantastically family friendly and easy on the eye.

Tying in beautifully to the outdoor decking, the interior’s kwila floor sets off the eye-catching joinery. All the trims and doors are cedar or rimu throughout. Step down from the kitchen to the spacious central living area. The impressive 3m-high stud enhances the sense of space and light. The separate dining area provides a more formal setting for dinner parties or special occasions. Warmth emanates from a large granite hearth flanked by feature wood cupboards. A second fireplace can be found in the family room. Cedar sliding doors allow the formal dining room to be opened up on balmy evenings; the adjoining deck also serves the master bedroom. Orientation of the main deck, meanwhile, has put the existing pool at the heart of everyday life. The new entertainer’s kitchen is a dream space for anyone passionate about making great food. The polished concrete slab benchtop provides a sleek and hard-wearing work surface. A scullery allows extra appliances to be kept out of sight. Positioned close to the family dining room, the spacious central island also serves the covered alfresco area. It’s a lovely place to relax and soak up the relaxed surroundings. The sliding doors foster flow outdoors. Two of the three bathrooms boast floor-to-ceiling tiles, rimu vanities and underfloor heating. The third bathroom – once a detached garage – incorporates a workstation and laundry; it serves swimmers, and grubby youngsters returning from rugby training.