Hillside transformation

A pretty, classic cottage is given contemporary accents and modern, sustainable functionality – by the experienced team at Buildology

The renovated home has the same pleasing form

The original cottage sporting lovely bones but in

Indoor-outdoor living is now a lifestyle feature of

Corten steel planter boxes are another rustic meets

A traditional brick fireplace anchors the centre of

The original grooved timber sarking has been reintroduced

Reflecting on character barn door connection and the

The new kitchen tones with the classic barn

Commended Award – Home Interiors. - Hillside transformation

Renovation by Romé Smit, Buildology Architectural Design

From the home builder:

The original urban board and batten cottage was nestled in the Pukapuka hills but had seen better days.

Breathing modern functionality into a classic home

The owner set out to bring the home back to life – creating a sanctuary for their family away from the fast paced-Auckland city life.

Upon entering, you are led through the spaces to the formal living area at the end.

Oversized barn doors separate the spaces, providing the flexibility of being cosy and intimate or open and connected.

Large feature glazing to the northern facade creates connection with the open countryside while maximising natural light.

The private bedrooms and bathroom spaces are discreetly tucked behind the large social spaces, while a master suite on the upper level offers a secluded retreat.

Original style – but cleaner

The intent was to maintain the original cottage style of board and batten cladding and high-pitched ceilings, while introducing large feature trusses.

This idea was further developed into a cleaner vertical cedar shiplap cladding with less busy exposed feature rafters and beams through the formal spaces.

The original grooved timber sarking has been reintroduced to the ceilings but in a neutral palette so that it blends subtly into the backdrop of the exposed rafters and beams.

Brick fireplace as central anchor

A traditional brick fireplace anchors the centre of the formal living space, but again in a neutral palette to enhance the texture of the brick while allowing it to blend into the backdrop of the room.

This is in contrast to the large bold bookshelf evoking past traditions.

Cottage inspired cabinetry graces the kitchen and bathrooms, complemented by natural timber benchtops and shelving.

The bold colour palette extends throughout the interior cabinetry against the canvas of the neutral walls and grooved ceiling.

A softer blue hue has been introduced to the bathrooms in contrast to the darker tones.

The ethos of Buildology

The ethos of Buildology is close collaboration – everyone working together to achieve a great result.

The owner was excited and completely involved and present throughout this project.

Plus, the builders were amazing, and kept an eye on everything working well behind the scenes while making sure the details and finishes were achieved.

Find out how Buildology can transform your classic home