From the ground up, the home has been thoughtfully rebuilt. The original 100-year-old “block and stick” foundations were well below modern building standards and unsuitable for the Shore Road cliff face. As expected, the floor had also shifted significantly over time. We replaced the outdated system with modern concrete piles and new bearers. We also added new load-bearing piles to support the third-story addition. During this process, we re-levelled the floor, restoring both its form and function for lasting strength and stability. Working closely with engineers, we installed steel beams, point loads, and portal frames to prepare for the new upper level. This also allowed us to straighten and square the original walls, many of which had shifted over the past century.

The old asbestos ceiling was removed, making way for a dramatic increase in ceiling height. The result is a first floor that feels grand and spacious, while still preserving the classic detailing that gives the home its character. Much of the original skirting required replacement. To retain the building’s historic charm, we custom-matched the old profiles using modern materials — achieving a seamless transition between old and new.

Careful attention was given to architectural details throughout the project to honour the home’s heritage while introducing subtle contemporary elements. We fully refurbished the bathroom with new tiles, fixtures, and amenities. The living and kitchen areas were redesigned into a modern open-plan space, and all internal joinery was upgraded with new doors, hardware, and locks. The home was insulated before new GIB and a fresh paint finish were applied, adding function and warmth to an otherwise timeless piece of Auckland architecture.

With careful attention to detail, we extended the existing tongue-and-groove skillion ceiling and added a new exposed beam with collar ties. This allowed us to achieve an open ceiling while preserving its classic cathedral style. We also repaired and replaced much of the rotten timber joinery, with a focus on restoring its original charm. A custom stair design, incorporating light shafts and skylights, created a stairwell that channels natural light from the third storey all the way down to the ground floor.

The top floor is a spacious entertainment area perched above the Shore Road reserve, offering views across Hobson Bay’s mangroves and the Auckland city skyline. To maximise this room, we used modern techniques to create a second, high-pitched skillion ceiling, adding volume and grandeur to the space. This level also features a floating Kwila deck laid over a low-slope waterproof membrane. A glass balustrade surrounds the deck, offering panoramic views of the reserve, city, and newly finished outdoor living space.

A tiled bathroom was also added on this level. Much of the existing cladding was rotten and leaky. We updated these areas with a modern cavity system and new weatherboard. We rebuilt large sections of the failing roof framing and installed new Colorsteel roofing to the whole building. Leaky roof valleys were reconstructed with torch-on membrane, and it was all tied together with custom copper spouting.

Externally, we constructed a new retaining wall and raised planter boxes along Shore Road, transforming an unusable bank into a private front lawn, enclosed carport, and new driveway. Along Burwood Crescent, we installed tall black fencing and mature hedging for privacy and security. This is also where you’ll find the home’s grand entrance — featuring a bespoke gate and floating concrete steps, the thoughtful design of the building’s façade adds street appeal, while ensuring the house remains classic and modest.

A standout feature of this project is the beautifully crafted outdoor living area — complete with a large concrete pool, timber decking, custom balustrades, and connecting stairs. This space seamlessly ties indoor and outdoor living, creating a place that’s both highly functional and quietly refined. The integration of landscaping, architecture, and lifestyle-focused design reflects our commitment to thoughtful construction and collaborative planning.

This renovation breathes new life into a historic home. Delivering the comfort, performance, and aesthetics of a brand-new build, while honouring the history of one of Auckland’s oldest homes.