Bright, Modern Bathroom Transformation in a 1920s Hataitai Home

Project Overview

This 1920s home in Hataitai needed a fresh and modern bathroom. An internal wall separated the existing bathroom and WC, and the layout felt tight and outdated. The homeowners wanted to open the space, bring in more natural light, and create a bathroom that felt simple, clean, and easy to use.

They also wanted to keep some of the house’s original charm while adding new features that made the room more comfortable and functional. The plan included removing the wall between the bathroom and WC, adding new windows, changing the layout, and giving the room a more modern look.

Budget & Timeline

The final cost increased compared to the original budget due to additional work requested along the way. These changes included:

• A shower upgrade
• Extra plumbing and electrical work
• Three new windows
• A new exterior door

Timeline

Planned duration: 4 weeks
Actual duration: 4 weeks

The bathroom itself was completed within the planned 4-week timeline. The joinery was also delivered within its expected timeframe, which had a longer lead time due to manufacturing requirements. Everything was finished smoothly, and the team delivered a high-quality result without any delays.

Design & Planning

Refresh Renovations NZ handled:

• The design
• Scoping
• Costing
• Full project management
• Coordination of all sub-trades

The renovation was design-led, meaning the focus was on achieving the exact style and layout the homeowners wanted. The budget was important, but reaching the right look and feel was the main priority.

The design goals included:

• Removing the internal wall to make the bathroom open-plan
• Keeping some original panelling for character
• Adding more natural light
• Improving function and layout
• Creating a calm, modern space with a quality finish

No council consent was required for this project.

Project Execution

Refresh Renovations NZ managed all trades involved in the build, ensuring every step followed the plan and was completed to a high standard.

Trades Involved

• Builder
• Electrician
• Plumber
• Decorator
• Flooring specialist
• Window joinery
• Glazier

The project included:

• Removing the wall between the bathroom and the WC
• Installing three new windows
• Installing a new exterior door
• Upgrading the shower
• New electrical and plumbing work
• Painting and decorating
• Flooring work
• Installing new joinery and finishes

Challenges Overcome

Difficult Site Access

The biggest challenge was the home's location. It sat up two flights of steps, which meant:

• All building materials had to be carried up by hand
• All rubbish and removed materials had to be carried down manually

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Final Result

The finished bathroom is bright, open, and full of character. The new layout has completely transformed the room.

Key Features

• Open-plan design: With the wall removed, the bathroom now feels significantly larger and more user-friendly.
• Green half-wall panelling: This stands out beautifully against the clean white walls and adds vintage charm.
• More natural light: The new windows make the room feel fresh and welcoming.
• Modern feel: The layout, finishes, and colours bring the space up to today’s standards while still fitting the age of the home.

The bathroom now has more space, more light, and a more precise flow. It is modern yet still in keeping with the character of the 1920s house.

Client Experience

The homeowners wanted:

• A modern layout
• More space and light
• Some original panelling was  kept for character
• A good-quality finish

They also wanted the project to begin within three months. The renovation was all about achieving a particular design outcome, and Refresh Renovations NZ delivered precisely what they were looking for.

Summary

This bathroom renovation shows how even a small space can be transformed with innovative design and careful planning. The new open layout, added windows, and character-filled finishes bring new life to this 1920s Hataitai home. Refresh Renovations NZ successfully delivered a bright, modern bathroom that balances new features with the home’s original charm.