When old meets new.

Renovating a 100-year-old home comes with its own set of challenges — and opportunities. The goal for this project was to modernise the heart of the home while respecting its history, craftsmanship, and original materials.

The existing kitchen and dining areas were enclosed and lacked natural light, making the space feel disconnected from the rest of the house. By opening up the layout, Marshall Builders transformed these rooms into a cohesive, open-plan living area that feels spacious, functional, and far better suited to modern family life.

Light played a key role in this renovation. Three Velux skylights were installed to draw daylight deep into the home, dramatically improving brightness and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere throughout the day. This simple but powerful addition changed the way the space feels, reducing reliance on artificial lighting and enhancing the home’s natural character.

Performance upgrades were equally important. New insulation and thermally broken joinery were introduced to improve comfort, warmth, and energy efficiency — a crucial consideration in homes of this era. The floors were carefully levelled before being finished with beautifully polished rimu flooring, preserving a classic material while giving it a refined, contemporary finish.

The new kitchen, supplied and installed by Complete Kitchens, strikes a balance between timeless design and everyday practicality. It complements the age of the home while offering modern functionality and durability.

Beyond the visible upgrades, essential maintenance work was carried out, including weatherboard repairs and subfloor fixes. These improvements protect the structural integrity of the home and ensure it’s well prepared for years to come.