A new kitchen and dining area was on the owners’ wishlist for some time, but the project didn’t get underway until other areas of the house had been renovated first.
The dark and cramped front of the house needed to be opened up for light and space, and then the new kitchen, butlers pantry and dining area installed.
The original kitchen was small and dark with old fashioned cabinetryA lack of space and functionality were primary reasons for the renovation
Realising the Value in Your Property Investment
The farmhouse vibe of the new kitchen fits perfectly with the age of the home, and creates a relaxing ambience that is both beautiful and functional to work in.
The ample bench areas and the island space make it possible for several people to work in the kitchen at the same time, and the laundry has also been seamlessly integrated into the overall kitchen area.
A closer view of the kitchen and integrated laundry area, maximising the available space.The kitchen integrates perfectly down to the built in laundry with additional bench space for food prep.The refreshed and functional new kitchen and living space.
If you are living in a home that is in serious need of an upgrade, now is the time to call Build Right for an initial chat.
We are happy to provide you with advice on what can be done within your budget and help you map out the way forward through design and pricing, to implementing the build and transforming your lifestyle!
When you’re at a “Love It or List It” crossroads, Build Right can help you fall back in love with your home.
Why Build Right Became Trudy’s “Love It” Partner – the 4 Step Approach
1. Consultation and Advice: Rex spent time with Trudy discussing what was needed and giving his considered advice on the best way to approach the renovation process.
2. Vision Mapping: The Build Right team designed 3D renderings showing how reconfiguring rooms + adding light could transform daily life and open up opportunities to relax and entertain with family and friends.
3. Cost Transparency: Detailed pricing to assist in the decision making process.
4. Phased Flexibility: Taking a two phase approach to renovate the bedrooms, bathroom and lounge, followed on by the new kitchen, butler’s pantry and dining/living area opening out to the deck.
The Transformation: More Than a Facelift
“I couldn’t imagine it was going to be as good as it is. We did it in two stages and did the front bedrooms and hallway and then the bathroom and gas fire and then the kitchen and living area which is completely different from what it was previously.
“We had three different living spaces which didn’t fit enough people in and always seemed quite dark and old and cold. And now I’ve got a very open space which is warm and inviting and it can entertain really well.”
What began as a fireplace repair evolved into a full-home revival:
Challenge
Build Right’s Solution
Impact
Dark, closed off layout
Removed internal walls, added skylight
Open plan living flooded with natural light
Outdated kitchen/bathrooms
Full modernisation + premium finishes
Chef-worthy kitchen space; beautiful bathroom
Poor energy efficiency
High spec insulation and double glazing
Lower heating costs; year round comfort
Gas fire needing replacing
New fire installed in renovated space
Attractive and functional living space
The “List It” Alternative: Why Renovating Won
Her renovation:
Added market value to her existing property
Preserved her cherished Strowan community connections
Avoided months of house-hunting stress and the whole moving process
Build Right stood out for Maggie after her extensive research. Founded in 2004 by Rex Lawrence and led by a team of Registered Master Builders, their reputation for blending architectural vision with practical craftsmanship resonated.
As Maggie says: “From the first consultation, they listened. No pushy sales tactics—just honest, creative solutions tailored to my townhouse’s constraints and my vision.”
Their design-build approach meant Maggie worked with a single team from sketch to completion, removing the stress of co-ordinating architects, engineers, and builders separately.
The Vision: A Conservatory That Feels Like Home
Maggie’s brief was simple but profound:
Create a bright, weatherproof space for relaxation, reading, and indoor plants
Maximise natural light without overheating in summer
Ensure seamless integration with the existing townhouse architecture
Add value to her property without overwhelming the compact section
Build Right’s solution? A timeless glass conservatory with:
Thermally broken aluminium framing to prevent condensation—a must in Christchurch’s variable climate
Low-E glazing to minimise UV damage while retaining warmth
Sliding bifold doors opening to the courtyard, blurring indoor/outdoor boundaries
The Transformation: More Than Just Square Metres
Today, Maggie’s conservatory is the heart of her home. The results exceeded her expectations:
“It’s not just a room – it’s my mental health sanctuary. On rainy days, I listen to the droplets on the glass. In winter, I’m warm without the heater running constantly.”
Feature
Impact
Year-round usability
Ambient temperature maintained via passive solar design
Space amplification
25% increase in functional living area
Lifestyle upgrade
Winter coffee with frost and rain views, evening wine to relax
Property value
Conservatory additions yield ~10-15% ROI in Christchurch’s market
1. Collaborative DNA Build Right prioritises client partnership. Maggie’s input shaped material choices, sightlines, and ensured 100% satisfaction with the end result.
2. Golden Thread” Communication Maggie never dealt with subcontractor confusion. Sam Harris served as her single point of contact – a policy Build Right enforces to reduce stress .
3. Sustainable Sensibility Low-E glass and thermally efficient materials align with Christchurch’s push toward resilient, energy-smart homes .
Your Invitation: From Vision to Reality
Inspired by Maggie’s experience? Build Right offers free home consultations to explore how intelligent design can transform your Christchurch property. Whether it’s a conservatory, kitchen, or full renovation, their team blends local expertise with genuine craftsmanship.
