Updating a Victorian villa in a Special Character area requires careful handling. This single-storey heritage home has close neighbours and it was important that, street-side, it was in keeping with the rest of the road. The homeowners wanted a more contemporary look inside, and better access to the outdoor space at the rear. The street-side elevation has been restored, with one side of the raised garden transformed into a basement garage. A flush garage door matches the white timber exterior. Inside, the original house now contains three bedrooms, a study, bathroom and lounge, while the new build at the rear has a very modern feel. Take the short flight of stairs down to the kitchen and living area, built using recycled brick and kauri from the original home, but with a modern twist. The brick floor pairs well with the dark aesthetic of the kitchen, and the living area opens to the outdoors through corner sliding doors, with easy access to a paved patio, pool and garden. A new stairway connects the two-storey addition — a main bedroom with access to a private balcony. The walk-in wardrobe and tiled ensuite are surprisingly roomy, with a glass arch leading to a fully tiled shower. This house, historic at the front, has plenty going on at the back.