How a Fireplace Fix Became a Full Renovation

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Outdated kitchen/bathrooms	Full modernisation + premium finishes	Chef-worthy kitchen space; beautiful bathroom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