1960s Kitchen Renovation With A Modern Open-plan Design In Auckland

The client wanted to update her original 1960s kitchen with a modern open-plan design. She aimed to create a family-friendly space that would also attract potential buyers and increase the home's resale value without overspending.

To bring her vision to life, the client partnered with Becki and her team of Refresh Renovations Manukau and East Auckland. The project required a detailed approach to balance style, functionality, and budget. Becki’s team worked closely with their client to ensure the design matched her needs and preferences, creating a kitchen that would remain timeless and practical.

Major Challenges

Dividing Wall

The home’s angled exterior walls made removing the internal wall and installing a beam tricky. The beam was initially placed to match the angles but was later adjusted for a cleaner look. A step-back in the wall created by the wall removal was cleverly incorporated into the kitchen design, blending perfectly with the benchtop for a seamless, intentional finish.

Flooring

Unpredictable weather caused the floor leveling compound to harden too quickly, leading to uneven flooring. After consulting with the client, the team decided to redo the entire floor. This decision ensured a smooth, high-quality finish and long-term durability.

Design Highlights

The renovation resulted in a modern, open-plan kitchen that blended functionality and style. A combination of timber, white, and black finishes created a striking yet cohesive design. Custom cabinetry and improved layout enhanced storage and usability, while LED lighting added a contemporary touch, highlighting the textures and materials used.

One of the standout features was the integration of the client’s cherished concertina bread storage, reimagined in a sleek and modern design. Also, the updated benchtop seamlessly incorporated a step-back feature from the removed wall, turning a structural challenge into an intentional design element.

Project Execution

The renovation was carried out over eight weeks, slightly longer than the original seven-week estimate due to council consent requirements and construction challenges. Despite this, the project stayed within the updated budget of $83,700, thanks to careful planning and efficient management.

Becki and her team of Refresh Renovations Manukau and East Auckland managed every aspect of the project, from design and working drawings to construction and finishing touches. 

Trades Involved:

• Builder
• Painter
• Plumber
• Electrician
• Designer
• Architect
• Kitchen Installer
• Flooring Installer
• Plasterer
• Blind Installer
• Engineer

Client Feedback

The client was thrilled with the final result, calling her new kitchen “awesome.” She praised project manager Becki for her excellent problem-solving skills and her ability to manage a reliable and hardworking team. She was particularly impressed with how the team resolved challenges, such as the flooring issue, and delivered a space that exceeded her expectations.

The new kitchen is now the centerpiece of her home, offering both functionality for daily use and increased appeal for future resale.

Final Thoughts

The kitchen was outdated and no longer suited the needs of a modern family, so the homeowners wanted to create a functional and stylish space. By implementing a sleek open-plan layout and high-quality finishes, Becki and her team of Refresh Renovations Manukau and East Auckland transformed the kitchen. We added features like benchtop design, modern lighting, and practical storage solutions to improve the space from its 1960s origins to a family-friendly modern kitchen. The successful renovation was managed by Project Manager, Becki from Refresh Renovations in Manukau and East Auckland. The team's dedication and expertise ensured that Victoria Nielson’s vision was brought to life, creating a kitchen she and her family can enjoy for years to come.

Would you like to discuss your home renovation ideas? Get in touch for a free consultation with your local Renovation Consultant and transform your home today.