This Blenheim project posed more than the usual renovation challenges. More than seven years ago, the commercial property had failed its building warrant of fitness due to the unconsented removal of an internal stairwell, which doubled as a fire exit. The top floor was abandoned and nesting birds had taken a liking to it. The building was in “an absolute state”. Enter Smith and Sons, who bought the building with the idea of converting it into two apartments. The mammoth task involved making the most of the existing top windows, but removing and replacing everything else on the upper floor. The team worked with an architectural, engineering and resource consent firm to come up with a viable plan and then set to work. Adding to the challenge was a tight time frame for the turnaround, but the project went to plan and the team is delighted with the result. They should be. The birds and other problems are long gone and what remains are a pair of two-bedroom apartments that are bright, airy and comfortable, with crisp clean lines and sparkling kitchens. The windows that were retained invite light inside, but also throw a spotlight on just what has been achieved here.