Garage Conversion Creates a Comfortable Downstairs Living Unit in Whangārei

Project Overview

This renovation project focused on improving comfort, accessibility, and long-term living for a semi-retired couple. The goal was to convert an underused garage into a practical downstairs living unit, allowing the homeowners to avoid stairs while still keeping their upstairs space available for boarders.

Why the Renovation Was Needed?

The homeowners were having difficulty using the stairs regularly due to age and health concerns. They wanted to move downstairs and create a space that was comfortable, easy to live in, and well-designed.

At the same time, they had international student boarders living upstairs, which helped with finances. renovation needed to:

• Allow them to live downstairs comfortably
• Keep the upstairs area separate
• Maintain privacy for both parties
• Stay within a tight budget

The garage, which had become a large storage area, was identified as the best space to convert.

Design Concept and Planning

The plan was to transform the existing garage into a small self-contained living unit, without turning it into a legally separate dwelling. It was important to avoid extra compliance costs and council contributions. The design included:

• Converting the existing laundry into a small bathroom
• Creating a living area with a small kitchenette and laundry space
• Adding a bedroom
• Installing large windows and doors to bring in natural light

Refresh Renovations handled the entire project, from concept design and working drawings through to construction.

Budget and Cost Management

The homeowners initially had a budget of around $100,000 in mind. This target was achieved in the first draft plan and costing.

During the planning stage, a few additional items were added, including:

• Acoustic ceiling with noise isolation
• A tiled, level-entry tiled shower
• A new downstairs fuse box 

These changes increased the final agreed contract price to $122,000. All additions were handled through clear variations, and the homeowners were comfortable with the updated scope.

Timeline and Delivery

The original contracted duration was 3.5 months. The project extended slightly beyond 4 months due to:

• Added scope
• Unexpected drainage challenges

Despite this, the renovated space was handed over before Christmas, which was a key requirement for the homeowners so they could move in on time.

Renovation Work Completed

Refresh Renovations completed the full project from start to finish, including:

• New downstairs bathroom (consented)
• New living space with a kitchenette and laundry
• New bedroom
• Flooring installation
• Cabinetry and aluminium joinery
• Plumbing, electrical, and drainage work
• Painting and plastering

The living area features two large windows/doors that bring in plenty of natural light, making the space feel open and spacious.

Trades Involved

The project required coordination of multiple trades, including:

• Architect designer
• Builder
• Plumber
• Electrician
• Painter and plasterer
• Flooring installer
• Cabinet maker
• Aluminium joinery supplier
• Drain layer

All trades were managed by Refresh Renovations, ensuring the homeowners had a stress-free experience.

Challenges and How They Were Solved

The biggest challenge was plumbing and drainage for the downstairs unit. A new stormwater channel drain had to be installed across the front of the house.

In addition, the existing wastewater lines were not located as indicated in the plans. This meant digging deeper and wider to locate the correct lines and make proper connections.

Another challenge arose during the consenting process. Council raised concerns about the house having two laundries, which could classify the space as a separate dwelling. After several meetings and discussions, it was agreed that the old laundry units would be dismantled. It avoided reclassification, extra construction costs, and development levies.

Final Result

The completed space looks modern, bright, and highly functional. The layout makes excellent use of the available area, with a practical living space, bedroom, and bathroom that meet the homeowners’ needs perfectly.

The acoustic ceiling helps reduce noise from upstairs tenants, improving comfort and privacy. The new downstairs unit allows the homeowners to live safely and comfortably without using stairs, while still keeping rental income from the upstairs rooms.

Client Experience and Feedback

The homeowners were extremely happy with the result and praised the process as stress-free and well-managed. They appreciated:

• Clear communication
• Step-by-step explanations
• Flexibility with requests
• Professional and friendly trades
• Strong project management

They described the renovation as a “completed dream apartment” and said they love living in their new home.