MARGARET STREET RENOVATION

Construction completed Easter 2016   

Located in one of Mangawhai’s most coveted ‘Golden Circle’ streets, this extensive renovation defies belief that in its place once stood an uninspiring ugly duckling. The makeover of this humble bach has breathed new life into old bones, and created a striking architectural statement. 

For Smith Construction, this was an ambitious undertaking, where at least 80% of the Hardiplank home has been reconstructed. A generous new footprint filled with bespoke details, including stunning Italian stone, has made for very happy inhabitants. We congratulate architect, Stephen Orchard, from Orcan Design on such an enterprising design.

Resting on a flat site, the 203sqm home is clad in attractive cedar from Hermpac, solid oak flooring and marble features – style, scale and layout have been perfectly examined and the result is second to none.

CHALLENGES:

Scratching beneath the surface, it became apparent this project was fraught with challenges. A clean slate can be a lot easier than correcting the sins of a former home. Before moving forward, the existing home required ample labour to bring it back up to par, to match our high standards.

We take this opportunity to thank our suppliers and contractors who collaborated on this exciting renovation. Carters Mangawhai, NuWall, Emerson Electrical, Carter Roofing, Italian Stone, Sweeney Painters, Jeff Johnson Gib stopper, Phoenix Windows & Doors

Read more about our partnership approach here.

NO PLACE LIKE HOME:

There are now four-plus bedrooms split across the site, along with a separate 55sqm garage/flat at one end, flanked by two incredible outdoor spaces. 

“There are many facets to this home that I admire. In particular the large covered outdoor dining space with cathedral roofline. The oversized cavity sliders are a statement and the artistic lighting really adds to the ambience. The kitchen with matt black granite benches and marble splashback is striking. I’ve never seen such intricate limestone tiles from Germany, complete with ancient sea fossils embedded in the stone. Truly unique!” reflects Smith Construction founder, Nick Smith. 

Downstairs, a rumpus room and additional sleeping quarter have been equipped with handcrafted bunks. Adjoining the middle deck is a double garage and flat, offering multiple uses.

FROM THE CLIENT:

“This was certainly a large renovation project - not for the faint-hearted! Nick made valuable suggestions when it came to finishing and overall functionality. We found this incredibly helpful and I think that’s what makes him stand out from other builders. All of the team were just so lovely. We were thrilled with the results. Although we have since sold this wonderful property, it wasn’t before we enjoyed many happy occasions in the home. Nick and the team have an appetite for perfection, and we valued our working relationship – it just seemed to be in sync at every stage. I only wish he was building in Auckland!” Karlene Johnstone