Wellington Point Home Renovation

 Although already converted in the late 1980’s with two bedrooms downstairs, a bathroom, WC and a large laundry, there was still a very large area that could only be classed as storage – quite often referred to as the “man-cave” as it had a bar in place. Upstairs there were 2 further bedrooms, lounge and diner all with features from the early 1900’s and 3m ceilings. A shower room with toilet and a large dark kitchen that felt very disconnected from the rest of the house and renovated in the 80’s. Finally the property had been split into two (internal stairs blocked off) to create two Air BNB units so not consistent with a modern family home.

The new owner wanted to create a family home, make improvements and carry out significant renovations. Ellis & Co and their network of professionals were engaged to develop a plan to renovate the property.

The first hurdle was the low ceiling height of the property downstairs given the ceiling height of less than 2.4m. Given Ellis & Co had identified a building certification approach that enables the lower areas of circa 1980’s low ceiling height storage area conversions to be certified habitable, Simon knew exactly what was required.

The available downstairs space lent itself to a another large bedroom to create 3 bedrooms downstairs. Upstairs the small upstairs bedroom could be converted into a large ensuite and walk-in robe that connected to the larger bedroom to create a master en-suite for the parents. Also knocking through the existing dining room wall enabled more light into the kitchen and a more connected feel through the house and even sea glimpses. Coupled with the addition of a skylight, a large shed, pergola, pool and a car-port a planning application was submitted for the conversions and the certification to a fully modernised 4 bedroom ‘connected’ home.

Application approved, the renovation commenced and touched every aspect of the home.

As part of the application our architect, structural engineer and builder were engaged as the process was  complex and multi-faceted. Throughout every phase of the renovations, structural inspections were required due to there being a need to significantly strengthen and reinforce aspects of the old home to the current building code for areas where walls were either removed or installed.

The renovation is a significant one and improved the home a great deal. The addition of the shed and pergola capitalised on available exterior space whilst still leaving room for children play areas, a plunge pool and sun-deck which also formed part of the renovation.