LODGE TRANSFORMATION

the brief:

With sweeping views over the bay, this much-loved family home had been the backdrop to years of memories. Now, with the children grown and flown, it was time for a refresh. Balancing their busy professional lives with hands-on management of their orchard, our clients needed a refurbishment that was both stylish and practical.

The vision was to create a restful retreat—an inviting space where you can truly unwind, kick off your shoes, and feel at home. A refined yet relaxed aesthetic was key, layering rich textures with subtle hints of glamour. Thoughtfully integrating cherished furnishings collected over the years, alongside timeless interior elements, ensured the new design felt both fresh and familiar. Every room was carefully considered to strike the perfect balance between old and new.

the outcomes:

A refreshed colour palette now flows throughout the home, creating a seamless connection between spaces. Deep tones of moss, earth, and brass set the mood in the living areas, while carefully selected textures and finishes elevate the overall aesthetic.

The lounge embraces a lodge-inspired feel, featuring a striking central fireplace, raking ceilings, and exposed timber rafters. Textural wall coverings add depth, while Bremworth’s Te Aroha wool carpet in a rich brass tone provides warmth underfoot. Thoughtfully curated furnishings—velvet sofas, a family piano, and marble tables—introduce a sense of luxury. The lighting is a mix of bold statements, from the glamorous Kartell Kabuki lamp to the abstract Stick People pendant.

In the open-plan kitchen, dining, and casual lounge, a sense of openness prevails. With deck access on both sides, the space effortlessly extends outdoors. A raking ceiling, painted in Dulux Wairakei enhances the room’s volume, while one entire side remains dedicated to uninterrupted bay views. The concrete floors were re-grounded for a refined yet practical finish—perfect for those busy orchard days. The kitchen retains its original cabinetry and tiled backsplash, with a deeper tone for the back of the room (to feel warmth and cosyness when facing back into the home) the lighter tones are to increase the feeling of spaciousness when looking out towards the expansive views.

Each bedroom has its own distinct personality. The master suite underwent a full bathroom renovation, resulting in a luxe, hotel-like retreat with marble tiling and an air of sophistication, tying through the existing black mosaic and timber planking. The existing heavily textured black wallpaper “Eldorado” from French company Elitis was retained for its sultry appeal, complemented by black bedside pendant lighting. A textural loop pile carpet adds comfort, while double track lined linen and a very open sheerweave window treatment create a screen while not fully diverting from the views.

The guest bedrooms embrace a more relaxed and playful vibe, creating a welcoming retreat for visitors. One, known as the guest room, is styled in natural, earthy tones for a calm and inviting feel, while the other features bold colours and fresh, vibrant linens for a lively touch.

Every element of this renovation was designed with balance in mind—blending timeless pieces with contemporary updates to create a home that feels both familiar and fresh.