A High Peak Renovation That Truly Became “Home”

Posted on December 3, 2025December 4, 2025 by Blaithin O'Neill

Anj & Barry’s Story

When Anj and Barry recently moved back to Christchurch, they found themselves in a house that had plenty of potential but didn’t quite feel like them yet. They loved the High Peak location, and they loved the bones of the home — it just needed a little fresh energy, personality and modernisation to match the way they live. That’s when they reached out to the Build Right team to help bring their vision to life.

From the beginning, they were clear about two things:
they wanted the home to feel like their own, and they wanted to refresh it without blowing the budget.

Together, we explored creative ways to elevate the existing spaces while keeping costs sensible. One of the biggest opportunities was in the bathrooms — instead of removing the original tile work, we brought it back to life with a professional clean and used it as the foundation for the new designs. This approach saved thousands while still allowing the spaces to look modern, calm and cohesive.

Relaxation at the Heart of the Renovation

Creating spa-like, light-filled bathrooms was a key priority. In the ensuite, we introduced soothing finishes, practical layout improvements and a brand-new sauna to create a true retreat — the kind of space where the day melts away the moment you step in.

To complete the space, we installed a beautiful double vanity that gives the couple plenty of room to get ready without feeling crowded. The large, open walk-in shower adds to the spa-like feel, offering an airy, luxurious experience with plenty of breathing room. Combined with the soft finishes and natural light, the ensuite now feels spacious, calming and thoughtfully designed for everyday comfort.

Upstairs, the family bathroom kept its original tiles, but everything around them was thoughtfully refreshed to create a brighter, more modern and welcoming space. We introduced a new vanity and mirror to bring in clean, contemporary lines and improve everyday functionality, while updated shower fittings, tapware and a new toilet helped elevate the room to today’s standards. Fresh finishes and subtle styling gave the space a lighter, more refined feel without losing the charm of the home’s existing character. The overall transformation is calm, cohesive and effortlessly modern — a bathroom that feels beautifully renewed while still blending seamlessly with the rest of the renovation.

Ensuite Bathroom

Family Bathroom

Designed for Hosting & Everyday Living

A second kitchen was designed within an awkward space toward the back of the house, giving the home a dedicated area perfectly suited for entertaining when the occasion arises. Tucked neatly behind a beautiful sliding door that connects to the open-plan lounge, the space feels both accessible and subtly separate when needed. With generous bench space, sleek cabinetry and a beautiful wine fridge, it’s an ideal zone for preparing food, serving guests or simply enjoying a relaxed evening with friends and family. The layout flows seamlessly toward the garden, making BBQs and outdoor gatherings effortless. Whether used every weekend or only for special occasions, this space adds real value and versatility to the home.

The main kitchen was completely removed and replaced with a striking new design featuring sleek black cabinetry, crisp white countertops and a large island that doubles as a breakfast bar. The perfect spot for casual meals or catching up with family. Despite the bold black cabinetry, the kitchen remains beautifully bright thanks to the abundance of natural light that floods the space throughout the day. A spacious double fridge-freezer was added to enhance functionality, along with a sleek double oven and modern hob to create a highly practical cooking space. The layout flows effortlessly into the open-plan dining and lounge areas, creating a warm, social hub ideal for everyday living. Meanwhile, the entire open-plan zone was elevated with new flooring and a fresh coat of paint, instantly modernising the heart of the home and tying the renovation together beautifully.

Main Kitchen

Second Kitchen

A Fresh, Functional Laundry & Downstairs Toilet

As part of the downstairs updates, the laundry received a much-needed modern refresh. What was once a tired and purely practical space is now bright, organised and stylish — designed to make everyday tasks feel a little easier. Clean lines, fresh finishes and efficient storage transformed it into a space that feels both contemporary and genuinely useful.

The original downstairs bathroom was also quite basic, offering little more than the essentials and lacking the personality the rest of the renovation was beginning to take on. The Build Right team stepped in to elevate the space, carefully designing around the existing tiles to highlight their character rather than hide them. By pairing the original tilework with light, modern finishes and sleek fixtures, the bathroom now feels brighter, more refined and perfectly balanced. The result is a fresh, contemporary space that honours the home’s original elements while looking completely renewed.

A Home Reborn

The transformation of this High Peak home truly speaks for itself. Every space has been carefully considered and every detail thoughtfully executed to ensure the house not only looked refreshed, but genuinely felt like Anj and Barry’s own. From the bathrooms and kitchens to the living areas and tucked-away functional spaces, each room now reflects a perfect balance of style, comfort and practicality. The entire home carries a warm, modern feel that flows effortlessly from one area to the next, bringing their personality into every corner. What began as a slightly outdated property has now become a beautifully cohesive, welcoming space that suits Anj and Barry down to the ground — a place they’re proud to come home to every day.

The photos captured from this renovation showcase the craftsmanship, detail and care that went into every decision — and most importantly, the clients are absolutely thrilled with how their home has come together.

Check out some of our reels of the property

Get in Touch today!

If you’re thinking about refreshing your own home and want a team that truly listens, works within your budget and brings your vision to life with care and craftsmanship, we’d love to help. Whether it’s a simple update or a full renovation, Build Right is here to make the process smooth, enjoyable and tailored to you.

Get in touch with us today to chat about your ideas — we can’t wait to help you create a home you’ll love coming back to.

Call

03 323 5771

Address

31 Jocelyn Street,  Casebrook, Christchurch 8051

A Christchurch Bungalow Reborn

Posted on October 9, 2025October 15, 2025 by Karen Foreman-Brown

Respecting the Past, Reimagining the Future

When the owners came to Build Right, their brief was clear: respect the features of the original bungalow, but open the door to a more contemporary lifestyle. The vision was to preserve the soul of the home while creating spaces that felt modern, connected, and effortless.

The transformation process began with the heart of the home: the kitchen. The cramped, outdated layout was replaced with a generous open-plan kitchen and dining space, designed for cooking, entertaining, and modern family life.

The feature tiles used as the kitchen splashback are a repeated design feature that is also incorporated into the scullery and bathrooms, conveying an organic sense of movement that the owners love.

A sleek new scullery was added next to the kitchen, offering additional storage and functionality that older homes rarely provide, while keeping the main kitchen clean and uncluttered.

The scullery space serves multiple functions, incorporating a laundry, a butlers sink and a desk area suitable for having a laptop set up adjacent to the kitchen.

Multi purpose scullery, laundry and desk area

Bathrooms with Character

The bathrooms became a defining feature of the renovation. The original bathroom was completely removed and the space was reworked into a completely new, fresh, modern space for the family to enjoy. At its centre sits a modern, stunning free-standing bath that adds a sense of luxury and relaxation.

A custom-designed timber vanity grounds the space with warmth with its natural finish echoing the heritage of the bungalow. Above it, a striking Art Deco-inspired wall mirror makes a bold statement, blending perfectly with the home’s character era while adding a touch of glamour.

And completing the ensemble, a fully tiled shower provides modern comfort, with clean lines and timeless detailing that will stand the test of time.

The master ensuite was created with the same philosophy: modern convenience layered with subtle character touches. Together, these new spaces bring a fresh elegance to the home, transforming everyday routines into moments of enjoyment.

Bathroom renovation Christchurch bungalow

Character, Modernised

Throughout this project, every decision made reflected the balance between old and new. The original features — timber trims, ceiling heights, and the sense of warmth that defines a bungalow — were celebrated, while the new design brought in openness, natural light, and easy flow.

The result is a home that feels renewed, not replaced. The owners can now live the way they want to in a home that works for their lifestyle, while still enjoying the character and history that made them fall in love with their bungalow in the first place.

“It still feels like our bungalow,” the client shared, “but now it finally works for us.”

The Build Right Difference

For Build Right, this project was about more than renovating a house, it was about honouring heritage while making space for modern life. It’s the kind of renovation that proves you don’t have to choose between character and comfort. With thoughtful design and quality craftsmanship, you can have both.

And in this bungalow’s story, that blend of old and new has created a home ready to be loved for many more years to come.

Are you passionate about a character home that needs to be revived?

Let’s chat about how we can help create a renovation that will restore the best features, while ensuring your home is comfortable and designed for the years ahead.

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Schedule Your Free Consultation: 03 323 5771

Idris Road deck — The new deck area with skylights overhead is an important part of the home, enabling year round outdoor living.

Christchurch kitchen renovations Idris Road — The new deck area with skylights overhead is an important part of the home, enabling year round outdoor living.

A New Chapter in North Canterbury

Posted on October 1, 2025October 9, 2025 by Karen Foreman-Brown

Bringing Back the Beauty

When the current owner purchased the property, it was clear the potential was there. The bones of the original home remained strong, but the relocation renovation had left much to be desired. What it needed was not just a makeover, but a master plan that would restore its heart and soul, and shape it into a long term home.

For the new owner, a lifelong farmer in the region, this lifestyle property represented more than just a change of scenery, it was a conscious step into the next stage of his life. A place where work would give way to relaxation and the ability to enjoy the beautiful country garden setting they had created.

To bring his vision to life, he turned to Build Right, engaging our team for both the design and the build.

The brief?

“Respect the character. Reimagine the layout. And deliver a home with quality craftsmanship, considered spaces, and timeless finishes.”

The renovation process focused on restoring and enhancing the home’s original features: high ceilings, beautifully crafted timber window & door joinery, new rimu fire surround & mantle, timber panelled doors and many other character features, while integrating a new open-plan extension that houses a light-filled kitchen, dining, and living area, creating a welcoming hub for everyday living. The result is an amazing blend of craftsmanship & elegance that has proved to be a comfortable and welcoming space for its owners.

Finishes That Tell a Story

For this client, the finer details mattered. With an appreciation for craftsmanship, he personally oversaw the selection of materials, fittings, and textures, opting for quality that he knew would endure.

Timber panelling, corbels, scotia, skirtings, dado rails and a new rimu fire surround the client had commissioned for the home, that stands as a centrepiece, stone benchtops, tiled splashbacks and period features throughout the home.

“Everything had to feel just right,” he explains. “I wasn’t just doing this to increase value – I was doing it to enjoy every day that I spend here.”

Built for the Next Stage of Life

This is a home that has undergone an amazing renovation without compromising on character. It’s the kind of home where morning sun floods the kitchen, where doors open wide to the amazing lawns and garden, and every space invites you to stay a little longer.

For Build Right, this project was a chance to work with a client who had a clear vision and a deep connection to the land.

“It was about honouring the past while designing for the future,” says Rex. “We were proud to bring this home back to life.”

Standing proudly in its North Canterbury setting, this character villa feels completely at ease, rooted in history, tailored for modern living, and ready for many more seasons to come.

Are you passionate about a character home that needs to be revived?

Once the house had been relocated, a living room extension was added, along with the deck area.

The home sits beautifullu in it's new location. — Once the house had been relocated, a living room extension was added, along with the deck area.

A Christchurch Renovation Looking Ahead to Retirement

Posted on July 29, 2025August 29, 2025 by Karen Foreman-Brown

Futureproofing in Spreydon

Bev and Warren contracted Build Right to modernise and future-proof their Christchurch home. The renovation included:

A fully redesigned kitchen with more bench space and storage, featuring a well positioned skylight to bring new life to the space along with increased functionality
Modernised bathroom with accessibility and ease-of-use in mind
New flooring, lighting, and insulation for year-round comfort
Layout changes to improve flow and reduce unnecessary upkeep
Finishes chosen for durability and timeless style

“The kitchen – oh, I love it. Everything functions how I wanted. The skylight is the highlight – it was so dark before, now it’s bright and light. Love it!”

“We felt that because we were getting near retirement, we wanted to futureproof the house. The bathroom’s been future-proofed too so we can live here a lot longer.”

– Bev

“Build Right Homes were so easy to work with… Every tradesman they use is professional, friendly, and goes out of their way. Couldn’t recommend them enough. It’s been a real breeze.”

– Warren

His words echo what many homeowners experience when working with the Build Right team — friendly, professional service from start to finish.

Why Renovating before Retirement Makes Sense

A thoughtfully designed renovation goes beyond the look and feel of your home: it’s an investment in your quality of life and home’s future, at a time when you can afford the costs involved while planning for any future challenges relating to health and accessibility.

By prioritising intelligent upgrades, you can significantly reduce ongoing maintenance costs while enhancing daily comfort and energy efficiency.

These changes also integrate subtle safety features that make everyday living easier and more convenient, especially for aging in place.

As Bev and Warren commented – “Disability rails and things you won’t notice much… but for us, it’s a major factor. We wanted somebody like Sam to project manage it and leave them to it – and that’s what happened.”

Ultimately, such renovations will add lasting value and longevity to your property, transforming it into a resilient, cost-effective sanctuary for years to come.

Before vs After

Area	Before	After
Kitchen	Dark and outdated	Light-filled with well placed skylight, modern and super functional, with everything in easy reach
Family Bathroom	Not future proofed	Modern, fresh and equipped with handrails for secure access
Overall Layout	Designed for a different life stage	Now equipped with CA sliding doors, smooth flooring surface, rails where needed and no obstacles to access

Build Right: Your First Choice Renovation Company

Whether you’re planning for retirement, or simply ready to renovate, Build Right brings together expert project management, thoughtful design, and quality craftsmanship.

With clear communication and a dedicated team on your side, your renovation will feel smooth, stress-free, and worth every moment.

Rex will spend the time at the start of the project walking you through everything and ensuring you are 100% comfortable before any of the work begins, while Sam as your project manager will ensure the whole job goes smoothly and with as little disruption as possible.

Want to Future-Proof Your Home Too?

Let’s chat about how we can help create a home that works for the next chapter of your life.

Explore Build Right’s Portfolio
Schedule Your Consultation: 03 323 5771

Clean lines and use of contrast between the white surfaces and natural timber cupboards

Christchurch Kitchen Transformation

Posted on July 15, 2025October 3, 2025 by Karen Foreman-Brown

Change was Long Overdue!

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.

Original kitchen Elmwood — The original kitchen was small and dark with old fashioned cabinetry

Old kitchen Elmwood Road — The original kitchen was small and dark with old fashioned cabinetry

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.

Kitchen with integrated laundry — A closer view of the kitchen and integrated laundry area, maximising the available 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!

Schedule a free chat: 03 323 5771
Explore Build Right’s Portfolio

How A Post-Quake Fireplace Fix Became a Full Scale Renovation in Christchurch

Posted on July 14, 2025October 2, 2025 by Karen Foreman-Brown

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

12 months post-renovation, Trudy’s “Love It” decision keeps paying dividends:

Her home flows seamlessly for entertaining
Energy bills are down despite Christchurch’s frosty winters
And yes – the gas fireplace works perfectly and creates a cosy environment in the living area, no matter the weather.

Build Right’s Role: The Trusted Advisor in Your “Love It or List It” Journey

Trudy’s story underscores why Christchurch homeowners choose Build Right at life’s crossroads:

“We help clients reimagine what’s possible for their home, so they choose from hope and excitement, not fear.” Sam Harris, Build Right Project Manager

Your Crossroads, Your Choice

Facing a “Love It or List It” moment? Build Right offers free, no-obligation feasibility assessments for Christchurch homeowners.

Discover how your existing home could become your dream home without the chaos of moving.

Don’t leave your future to chance. Build certainty. Build once. Build Right.

Watch Trudy’s Full Journey here.

Explore Build Right’s Portfolio
Schedule Your Free, No Obligation Consultation: 03 323 5771

Old fireplace with eq damage Elmwood — The original living space with gas fire was cluttered and the fire needed repairing post quake.

renovated living room with new gas fire — The original living space with gas fire was cluttered and the fire needed repairing post quake.

This is part 2 in our “Love It or List It” series. Read Maggie’s conservatory story and stay tuned for our next homeowner’s journey!

How Build Right Transformed a Christchurch Townhouse with a Stunning Conservatory

Posted on July 4, 2025October 2, 2025 by Karen Foreman-Brown

Why Build Right? More Than Just Builders

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

Why Build Right Excels at Complex Urban Projects

Maggie’s project underscores Build Right’s unique strengths in Christchurch’s rebuild landscape:

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.

“Don’t compromise – build once, build right.” Rex Lawrence, Founder

Explore Build Right’s Portfolio
Schedule Your Free Consultation: 03 323 5771