The Custom Space

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Renovating the classic NZ villa

The classic New Zealand Villa. Providing safe passage for our gentle south-westerlies through Borer holes and drafty sash windows since the late nineteenth century.  

Woven throughout our bush and beaches, we are lucky to have these architectural icons as an integral part of our unique identity and rich cultural heritage. With their timeless charm we will benefit from their grandeur and the aesthetic sensibilities of their era well into the future. 

As we navigate the challenges of urban development to meet the needs of a growing population, the importance of preserving these cultural gems is greater than ever.  However, as we aim to safeguard their historical significance, the renovation process can present considerable challenges. Maintaining the villa houses' authenticity while integrating modern conveniences, comforts and tastes is a delicate endeavour.  

Bespoke joinery plays a pivotal role in achieving this balance. With a firm nod to the original aesthetic, there can still be plenty of room to play, introducing personal design tastes and/or contemporary features and materials that seamlessly complement the villa's heritage. 

Wooden features including doors and windows can honour tradition, regaining their original quality through renovation at the hands of a skilful joiner. Even accommodating modern enhancements like draft exclusion and double glazing.  

Innovative cabinetry design can transform the functionality of your spaces. Engage a talented Designer who understands the delicate art of combining classic and modern design and can steer you through meticulous material selection and finish choices, seamlessly integrating into existing framework and utilising the natural light and character or your villa.  

Preserving our villa houses entails more than just aesthetics—it involves honouring their historical importance and ensuring their continued functionality for modern life. By striking the right balance between tradition and modernity, we can ensure that our villas remain a celebrated feature of our community for future generations, amongst the changing population landscape, whatever it my look like.  

 

Nick Ison  

General Manager