Compact Townhouse Kitchen Update in Queenstown

This townhouse owner wanted to freshen up her dated kitchen and introduce more light into the space. She contacted her local renovation consultant Kathleen Magon of Solasta Ltd, a Refresh Renovations® franchise and decided to explore an option of relocating the kitchen. However, the initial budget indication can back as more than what she was willing to invest in the project. So instead, she opted for the cheaper solution of upgrading the existing kitchen in situ and adding in a new skylight.

Major Challenges

The smallest of spaces are often the most challenging and this was certainly true for this compact kitchen. It was particularly complex due to the number of unusual angles that the design team needed to work with. The other challenge for this project was uncertainty around the original construction. Built in the 1980’s the four 2-story apartments were joined at differing levels up steep sloping ground. Upon demolition the team discovered that wall linings had been stuck directly onto the concrete block work that separated the two dwellings this meant valuable real estate had to be used to run electrical cabling based on the new designs. In a compact space where millimetres matter this was an unexpected surprise. The property also had difficult access with materials needing to be manually carried up a steep exterior entryway adding a layer of difficulty for the trade team and the larger material deliveries.

Design Highlights

In the original layout the cooktop was positioned at the top of the split-level stairs a less than ideal location. So, the decision was made to make the adjacent laundry more functional with some reconfiguration work,the fridge was able to be relocated thereby giving some much need extra room tothe kitchen. The cooktop was moved to the back wall with ducting for the new extraction fan run along the top of the cabinets. This ensured that the new kitchen design met with healthy home standards. The sink was moved into the angled corner allowing for plenty of preparation space on either side of it. A bin was attached to the inside of the door, the homeowner doesn’t use a traditional oven but space has been left for an underbench combination microwave/convection oven it the homeowner or future owners wish to install one in the future.

Project Execution

The renovation was completed in 7 weeks (excluding the skylight due to weather delays), this was longer than anticipated due to some unexpected delays. There was a delay on the joinery delivery and installation which impacted on the schedule. The difficultly with the firewall and extra depth their also created a small delay while the build team worked through the most efficient way to deal with the electrical requirements. The original build budget for the project was $54,977 for the kitchen, laundry and skylight installation.The final build price was $55,329. The difference was a small increase surrounding the skylight installation falling over the original allowances.  

Despite the challenges with this 80’s townhouse Kathleen Magon and the team at Refresh Renovations® were able to navigate these and deliver a kitchen that met the homeowners original brief of being lighter and brighter and more enjoyable to use.

Client Feedback

The homeowner loves her new kitchen with moving the fridge into the laundry it has given her a lot more bench space and is a more inviting space. The addition of the skylight allows more light into the area which was akey area of concern for her.

Trades Involved

• Builder
• Plumber
• Electrician
• Plasterer
• Painter
• Joinery installer
• Tiler

‍Final Thoughts

The smaller the space, the more challenging it can be - that was the case with this compact kitchen. Taking the time to fully scope and plan the project is essential, as the smallest of issues can create big knock on implications. Through carefull planning of the space, a kitchen re-design was achieved that met the homeowners original brief and budget.

Refresh® Renovation Renovation Consultant Kathleen Magon and the team at Solasta Ltd delivered a kitchen update that improves the functionality and aesthetic of the home.

Would you like to transform your kitchen or home? Contact your local Renovation Consultant today for a free consultation.