Coastal retreat

This double-storey home in Red Beach, Auckland, enjoys beautiful sea views. Originally a leaky plaster home, it required a complete exterior reclad and full interior renovation. The project was an opportunity to rethink the property inside and out, improving the layout and finishes to better suit modern family living.

I was involved from the beginning, providing full interior design, project management and procurement. My role covered everything from exterior finishes and colour selections to spatial planning, custom joinery, the kitchen, bathrooms, lighting, furnishings, window treatments and final styling.

A key part of the renovation was rethinking the downstairs layout. We created a more self-contained space with a bedroom, living room and bathroom. This gives the owners flexibility to accommodate an ageing parent or teenager, or potentially rent the space out if their needs change.

The house was stripped back for a complete exterior update. New weatherboards, aluminium joinery, fascias, soffits, a garage door and roof gave the property a fresh look. Materials and finishes were selected to suit the coastal environment.

I developed the exterior colour palette alongside the interior scheme to create a natural connection between the two. Soft whites and oak provide a warm foundation, while deeper blues and greens reflect the surrounding sea and landscape.

Inside, the focus was on creating a comfortable family home with a more practical layout. The kitchen and three bathrooms were redesigned, balancing everyday functionality with a relaxed, contemporary aesthetic. Clever changes brought the kitchen closer to the centre of the home, while a new scullery keeps the practical workings tucked away.

Custom joinery also made better use of the available space. Finally, carefully selected lighting, furnishings, fabrics and window treatments added warmth, texture and personality throughout.

The result is a refreshed, contemporary coastal home that feels connected to its surroundings. With an improved layout and flexible living spaces, the home can adapt to the owners’ changing needs over time.