Outside the square apartment renovation

Designers are often asked to do the impossible, and rearranging the interior walls and layout in an apartment can fall into this category.

For this project, it was the designer herself who wanted to make a change to her own apartment. Lynn Malone says the new penthouse had a very compartmentalised interior. Internal walls were removed to create a more fluid, open interior for relaxing and entertaining. And the two bedrooms were replaced with one large master suite.

Malone also had to work with an immovable stairwell surround in the middle of the living area, which appeared as a large white box. This had put off other prospective buyers, but the designer could see the potential for transformation. She consequently asked the builder to reduce the size of the box, as it was larger than required. The volume was then wrapped in glossy dark joinery, which has been put to practical use housing appliances, storage and display niches.

With the layout simplified and more spacious, and the stairwell reinvented as feature formwork, Malone then imbued the interior with a more harmonious aesthetic. Full-height doors were integrated into the joinery, resulting in a seamless transition from room to room.

For most people, the first challenge in such a project involves financial planning, and this is something that is best sorted at the outset. One bank that knows and understands how to tailor finance to your precise needs is Westpac. The bank can help in many ways, but it is best to talk to a Westpac consultant about the options. You may be surprised to see just how easy it is to fund a renovation project.

Westpac can advise on the different types of home loans, so your loan can be structured in a way that works best for you and your family.

For further details, visit your local Westpac branch or phone 0800 177 277. Or visit the website: www.westpac.co.nz

Story by: Trendsideas