Full apartment renovation in Hawthorn. Melbourne: Premium craftsmanship and high-end finishings

Changes on the horizon

Hawthorn homeowner Prue wanted to give her two-bedroom apartment a fresh, modern look with a full home renovation. This included a bathroom and kitchen renovation, installing a European laundry and new flooring throughout the home, converting a window into an exterior sliding door, and an outdoor renovation as well. 

Prue knew the scope of her vision was significant; she wanted guidance from a professional to alleviate the stress that comes with a project of this magnitude. After noting many positive experiences from previous clients and reviewing Refresh’s 5-step process, Prue reached out to Renovation Consultant Leigh McDonald, who has become known for his fantastic and often large-scale transformations. 

Expert advice

Leigh and Prue discussed her goals for the renovation. The project was primarily design-led as Prue wanted up market finishes that she could be proud to show off. Her apartment was also the only unit with a garden and driveway, making it the total package. She wanted this renovation to add value to the property in case she decided to sell in the future. 

Her initial budget was around $150,000. With everything she wanted to accomplish, which also included improvements to the front garden and exterior, Leigh estimated that Prue may need to extend her investment. His prediction was proved accurate. As they defined the scope and chose materials, many of the selections were above average in quality resulting in the final cost of just under $168,000.

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Breaking ground

To wrap up the planning phase, Leigh arranged for build permits to be obtained for the front deck and fencing. Once these were in order, construction could begin. With such a large-scale project, Leigh had to arrange an extensive team of both general contractors and specialists to get the job done. Demolition crew, carpenters, electricians, and plumbers were active during the early stages while glaziers, stonemasons, painters, and floor layers came in later to address the cosmetic details. 

Unfortunately, issues with the original cabinet-maker caused significant delays, but Leigh responded quickly and decisively to find an experienced alternative who would complete the job and maintain the project’s meticulous level of craftsmanship.

A complete transformation

Access to Prue’s property was limited and Leigh had to manage on-site waste removal. To facilitate this, Leigh arranged for waste bin pick-up and drop-offs to be made during the middle of the day when fewer cars lined the street - a smart solution to what is a typical inner-Melbourne problem. 

Prue was happy with Leigh’s management of the challenges throughout the five-month renovation. And the results speak for themselves. Two outstanding features of the project are the bi-fold door leading to the tranquil outdoor living area, and the original kitchen cabinetry that was repurposed into stylish display shelving, with bespoke lighting, in the lounge. Leigh accomplished an impressive result, on time and within budget, delivering all that Prue hoped for - and more. 

Would you like to discuss your home renovation ideas?

Get in touch for a free consultation with your local Renovation Consultant.