Country and comfort

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If these walls could talk they’d tell quite the renovation tale. When builders started work on this 1900s house with a 1990s extension, they found minimal insulation, draughty timber windows, some rot and a “slightly dodgy floor” out the back. The latter necessitated demolition, but also gave the owners a blank canvas to work with. The front of the weatherboard house, however, could remain relatively unchanged. The major challenge was to sympathetically blend old and new, which the solid oak floor does with sublime style. The renovation also involved making the house warm, and building a wraparound verandah in keeping with the home’s character and it's rural setting. The result has exceeded the clients’ expectations. There are 40sqm of verandah and decking here, much of it covered, rooms have been opened up, and glazed doors invite light inside while encouraging the residents outdoors. It’s a delightful house for entertaining. You’ll also find three bedrooms, including a main suite with ensuite and walk-in wardrobe. As for maintaining the soul of the property, two stained-glass windows, the front door, architraves, skirting and timber-panelled ceiling have all been retained.

REGIONAL AWARDS WON

Regional Bronze

REGION & CATEGORY:

Nelson / Marlborough / West Coast
Renovation up to $750,000