Original, tired, nicotine stained, and lacking insulation and heating, this turn-of-the-century Thorndon villa was in desperate need of repair. To restore it to a warm and comfortable home, the entire rear of the house was demolished – goodbye kitchen, bathroom and 100-year-old toilet – and replaced with modern open-plan living that flows out to a new deck. Fully insulated, this light and bright villa is now fit for 21st-century life. The well-designed kitchen features a long central island  where friends can be entertained. It also looks out through new French doors to the deck and lawn. Light and airy, the bathroom features a contemporary, freestanding bath. Timber floorboards were removed from the bedrooms and replaced with soft, luxurious carpet. The floor- boards were recycled and laid throughout the rest of the house, from the bathroom to the living areas. A fresh coat of paint inside and out has tied the whole package together nicely. The end result is a tidy, warm, character villa with extended outdoor living in one of Wellington’s most sought-after locations.