A Christchurch Renovation Looking Ahead to Retirement

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    BeforeAfter
KitchenDark and outdatedLight-filled with well placed skylight, modern and super functional, with everything in easy reach
Family BathroomNot future proofedModern, fresh and equipped with handrails for secure access
Overall LayoutDesigned for a different life stageNow 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

Christchurch Kitchen Transformation

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.

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.

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 Trudy’s Fireplace Fix Became a Full Renovation in Strowan, Christchurch

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: 

ChallengeBuild Right’s SolutionImpact
Dark, closed off layoutRemoved internal walls, added skylightOpen plan living flooded with natural light
Outdated kitchen/bathroomsFull modernisation + premium finishesChef-worthy kitchen space; beautiful bathroom
Poor energy efficiencyHigh spec insulation and double glazingLower heating costs; year round comfort
Gas fire needing replacingNew fire installed in renovated spaceAttractive 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 Consultation: 03 323 5771

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

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.”

FeatureImpact
Year-round usabilityAmbient temperature maintained via passive solar design
Space amplification25% increase in functional living area
Lifestyle upgradeWinter coffee with frost and rain views, evening wine to relax
Property valueConservatory 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 Consultation: 03 323 5771