We took a dated rural cottage and made it work for a growing family, without losing its charm.

About

Irwin Road Project.

ArchiPro Project Summary - Complete renovation of an 85m² rural cottage into a contemporary multigenerational home, featuring innovative space optimization, smart technology, and sustainable solutions, set for completion in 2025.

Title:: Irwin Road Project
Builder:: Build Unlimited
Category:: Residential/; Renovations and Extensions
Region:: Kingseat, Auckland, NZ
Completed:: 2025
Price range:: $0 - $0.25m
Building style:: Contemporary
Photographers:: Build Unlimited

Project Description

Complete renovation of an 85m² rural cottage designed for multigenerational living. The project transformed a dated cottage into a modern, functional home for a young family with newborn, maximising space within the existing footprint after council restrictions prevented extension.

Key Features:

Hidden laundry behind bifold doors in kitchen for clean, tidy appearance
Multi-functional home office/guest bedroom with additional data and power outlets
Bathroom redesign incorporating both bath and large shower
LED strip lighting in pantries with sensor activation
Stone splashback and USB charging points in island bar
Solar panels for reduced power costs
Starlink internet with WiFi extenders for rural connectivity

Challenges Overcome:

Council restrictions preventing extension required creative space optimisation
Rural location requiring off-grid internet solutions
Storage priorities for growing family with newborn
Maximising functionality within compact 85m² footprint

Smart Solutions:

Entry door repositioned to create more kitchen space
Sensor-activated pantry lighting for convenience
Integrated USB charging in island to maintain clean aesthetics

Result: A stunning transformation that maximises every square meter, creating a warm, functional family home perfect for multigenerational living while incorporating modern technology and convenience features.85m² cottage renovation with hidden laundry, multi-functional home office, smart lighting, and solar power. Complete transformation maximizing space for a growing family.

Project Gallery

We have worked with many builders for new homes as well as renovations. We are about to embark on a project with Pete and his team and from our dealings so far, I feel Pete is passionate about the building processes, but also takes pride in the set up of the processes for the client. He is transparent and open about the possibilities. Thanks for your organisation to date Pete. John Van Winden.

Easy to clean, easy to live in, no fancy stuff, just solid choices that last.

Built the gas range straight into the benchtop, keeps the lines tidy and gives the whole kitchen a real modern, easy-to-use feel.

Hidden, practical, and exactly what the client needed to make the space flow better.

Not the most glamorous shot, but it’s the stuff that matters.

Good ventilation, proper waterproofing, and storage where you need it.

That’s the result of proper planning, prep, and a bit of builder pride.

Behind the scenes, still beautifully done. We believe even the hidden spaces deserve attention, this under-sink setup is clean, accessible, and built to stay that way.

“One of my favourite little details.” - We tucked a full laundry into this cabinet—stacked washer-dryer, overhead storage, all out of sight but easy to get to.

LEDs, solar power, full WiFi setup, done. Old cottage bones, modern-day smarts.

This is the kind of job I really enjoy. Small footprint, big impact. You can see how every square metre works harder now.

Views and Engagement

Products used

Buddy Low Curved Spout Basin MixerPlumbline

From$499

Brookfield Single Tier Wall Hung VanityNewtech Bathroomware

Elysian Commercial Pull-Out Kitchen MixerABI Interiors

WindowsArchitectural Aluminium Installations

Elysian Minimal MixerABI Interiors

Professionals used

Build UnlimitedBuilders

ARCHITECTURAL BUILDS

VILLA RENOVATIONS AND EXTENSIONS

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ARCHITECTURAL BUILDS

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PlumblineManufacturers and Suppliers

EnglefieldManufacturers and Suppliers

Newtech BathroomwareManufacturers and Suppliers

ABI InteriorsManufacturers and Suppliers

Architectural Aluminium InstallationsManufacturers and Suppliers

Build Unlimited

Builders

buildunlimited.nz

Build Unlimited. IT STARTS WITH A VISION. At Build Unlimited, we believe that every home should be as distinctive as the people who live in it. Your space should not only reflect your personality but also serve your lifestyle, with no compromises on function, quality, or style. Where others see design constraints or logistical hurdles, we see opportunities. We specialise in turning complex briefs into extraordinary results through a process that respects your time, budget, and vision. What sets us apart is our fully integrated approach. With architects, quantity surveyors, and builders working together under one roof, we eliminate the disconnect between design and delivery. This seamless collaboration ensures that your project runs efficiently from concept to completion while staying true to your vision. We don’t just build homes. We craft personalised environments where our clients can live authentically and thrive for years to come.