Home Renovations Wellington

Why renovate your Wellington home?

Wellington’s property market prizes liveability and character. Renovating allows you to unlock extra value without changing postcode, whether you want to capture harbour views, improve earthquake resilience or simply gain better flow between living zones. Thanks to the capital’s compact footprint, access to skilled trades and suppliers is excellent, meaning projects can progress quickly once your brief and budget are clear.

Popular renovation projects around the capital

• Open-plan living: Removing internal walls to create light-filled kitchen, dining and lounge spaces remains the most requested upgrade.
• Bathroom transformations: Wellington’s salty sea air is hard on fixtures; a modern refit boosts both comfort and resale. See our curated bathroom renovations.
• Kitchen upgrades: From bespoke cabinetry to energy-efficient appliances, a new heart of the home makes daily life easier. Browse inspiring kitchen renovations.
• Laundry re-work: Converting under-used corners into concealed laundries frees up floor area. Explore smart laundry renovation ideas.
• Outdoor connections: Bifold doors, decks and windproof louvre systems let you enjoy Wellington’s sunny days while sheltering from the famous southerly.

Setting a realistic budget and timeline

For an average three-bedroom villa, cosmetic updates (paint, flooring, lighting) start around $1,200–$1,800 per square metre. Structural work such as re-levelling, additions or seismic strengthening can climb to $3,000–$5,000 per square metre. Factor in:

• Design fees: 4–10% of project cost for an architect or architectural designer.
• Consent costs: Wellington City Council application fees plus third-party reports (geotech, engineering).
• Contingency: Allow 10–15% to cover unforeseen heritage or weather-related issues.
• Temporary accommodation: If the only bathroom or kitchen is out of action, budget for short-term rental or a self-contained site cabin.

Timing hinges on consent complexity and contractor availability. A well-planned kitchen remodel might be completed in eight weeks, whereas a full-house renovation with an extension could run 9–12 months.

Consents, codes and compliance

Most structural, plumbing and drainage changes require building consent. Wellington’s seismic zone also means work must align with NZS 3604 Timber Structures and, where relevant, the Earthquake-prone Buildings Amendment Act. The Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment provides a clear guide to what needs consent. Engaging a Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP) early prevents costly redesigns later.

Choosing the right team

Designer or architect?

Architects bring holistic design thinking and can handle complex heritage overlays prevalent in suburbs like Kelburn. Architectural designers are ideal for straightforward internal re-layouts or cost-sensitive projects.

Builder selection

Always request recent local references, sight the builder’s LBP number and confirm availability that aligns with your desired start date. Fixed-price contracts offer certainty, but cost-plus can work when scope is evolving.

Specialist trades

Kitchen manufacturers, tilers, electricians and painters familiar with Wellington’s micro-climates (salt spray, high UV) will specify products that last longer in coastal conditions.

Maximising return on investment

• Prioritise kitchens and bathrooms—they deliver the largest equity lift.
• Invest in insulation, double glazing and efficient heating to meet the Healthy Homes Standards and reduce power bills.
• Use durable claddings and fixings rated for Zone D wind exposure common on hill sites.
• Incorporate flexible spaces—home offices or guest rooms—in response to remote working trends.

Next steps with ArchiPro

Ready to take the first step? Browse our complete directory of renovation professionals, shortlist firms, request quotes and save inspirational images to your project board. With transparent reviews, verified credentials and direct messaging, ArchiPro is the simplest way to turn renovation ideas into a finished Wellington home you love.