Kitchen Renovations Archives | Build Right Homes

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 The cramped, outdated layout was replaced with a generous open-plan kitchen and dining space, designed for cooking, entertaining, and modern family life.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.

Explore Build Right’s Portfolio
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 Guide for Empty Nesters Planning Ahead, Part 1

Posted on August 12, 2025September 8, 2025 by Karen Foreman-Brown

Rather than rushing into a smaller property, many empty nesters are choosing instead to “age-in-place” and future-proof their homes for the next chapter of life.

This blog explores why staying put can be a great option, what empty nesters typically look for in a home, and how to make smart, retirement‑ready improvements that will keep your home safe, comfortable and enjoyable for years to come.

We’ll draw on research and practical advice from government agencies, Age Concern and renovation experts to help you stay and continue to enjoy your home.

Why stay in the home you love ?

Many older adults choose to remain in their long term homes because familiar surroundings, social networks and community support contribute to better physical and mental wellbeing.

Age Concern New Zealand notes that staying in your home allows you to maintain established friendships and recreational activities, which can make adapting to changes in older age easier.

For empty nesters who are still active, leaving an established neighbourhood might feel like more of a loss than a gain.

Read more about Trudy’s story here …

The downsizing myth

A common assumption is that empty nesters need less space and should downsize to a smaller property once the kids leave.

However, many modern 50‑ and 60‑somethings are healthier and more active than previous generations – they’re pursuing hobbies, launching second careers and welcoming extended visits from adult children and grandchildren.

Empty nesters often need space for home offices, exercise areas, craft rooms and guest accommodation.

Downsizing may ignore these lifestyle goals and can be expensive when you factor in real‑estate commissions, moving costs and the premium for a smaller, move‑in ready house.

Instead of seeing extra space as a burden, think of it as an opportunity to create the lifestyle you’ve always wanted.

Reconfiguring existing rooms, creating zones for different activities and focusing on low‑maintenance materials can make a larger home easier to manage than an older, smaller property.

What empty nesters want in their home

Empty Nesters – typically couples or individuals whose children have moved out, often reach a point where their priorities shift from raising a family to enjoying comfort, simplicity and lifestyle in their home.

Here’s what many ‘Empty Nesters’ typically look for in their home to prepare for the years to come:

Low Maintenance Living

Easy to maintain property
Modern fittings and fixtures for their comfort, including replacing higher budget items like appliances (ovens, dishwashers, laundry machines etc) and heating to ensure they will last well into the future
Ensuring plumbing and wiring are up to date to avoid the need for repairs

Future Proofing for Reduced Mobility

Ensure you have accessible bathrooms and kitchens
Walk in showers, wider doorways and hallways, minimising stair usage if possible – consider installing a chair lift for stairs if this is feasible and there is no room for bedrooms on the ground floor
Replacing hinged doors with CA slider doors to increase accessibility and maximise space
Relocating master bedroom and bathroom to the ground floor if currently upstairs

Comfortable & Accessible Spaces

Open plan kitchen/living/dining for entertaining and relaxing
Generous master suite with ensuite bathroom and walk-in wardrobe, easily accessible

Flexibility for Guests & Hobbies

Changing spare bedroom/s into a home office, craft room, gym or studio space, while still making them available as guest bedrooms if needed

Energy Efficiency & Modern Comforts

Installing double glazing, insulation, heat pumps, solar options to help reduce energy costs in future
Good natural light and ventilation

Smart Technology

Invest in smart home technology that future‑proofs your home with voice controlled devices, automated systems and security, including the ability to programme (set and forget) regular daily actions

Location, Lifestyle & Security

Close to shops, cafes, healthcare and public transport
Quiet, safe neighbourhood with like-minded neighbours
Lock-and-leave potential for travel and peace of mind

Build Right: Taking The Next Step

If you are an empty nester and planning ahead for the ways you could optimise your existing home, Build Right can advise on the most effective way to ensure your home is well prepared for the changes ahead – while you still have the income to invest in renovations.

Our design team will walk you through everything and ensuring you are 100% comfortable before any 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?

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

Look out for our next “Empty Nesters” blog where we will dig deeper into some of the specifics around how to focus on to prepare your home for the long haul.

Timber flooring provides effective contrast with the white finish — Choose drawers in your kitchen for storage rather than cupboards to improve access. A wall mounted oven also improves access and minimises the need to bend to take food in and out.

Good lighting is even more essential as we age. A well-placed skylight ensures the kitchen area is light filled

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