Full apartment renovation in Hawthorn, Melbourne

Changes on the horizon

Hawthorn homeowners Ben and Prue wanted to give their two-bedroom apartment a fresh, modern look with a full home renovation. This included a bathroom and kitchen renovation, installing a European laundry and new flooring throughout the home, converting a window into an exterior sliding door, and an outdoor renovation as well. 

Ben and Prue knew the scope of their vision was significant; they wanted guidance from a professional to alleviate the stress that comes with a project of this magnitude. After noting many positive experiences from previous clients and reviewing Refresh’s 5-step process, they reached out to Renovation Consultant Leigh McDonald, who has become known for his fantastic and often large-scale transformations. 

Expert advice

Leigh, Ben and Prue discussed their goals for the renovation. The project was primarily design-led as Ben and Prue wanted up market finishes that they could be proud to show off. Their apartment was also the only unit with a garden and driveway, making it the total package. They wanted this renovation to add value to the property in case they decided to sell in the future. 

Their initial budget was around $150,000. With everything they wanted to accomplish, which also included improvements to the front garden and exterior, Leigh estimated that Ben and Prue may need to extend their investment. His prediction was proved accurate. As they defined the scope and chose materials, many of the selections were above average in quality resulting in the final cost of just under $168,000.

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Breaking ground

To wrap up the planning phase, Leigh arranged for build permits to be obtained for the front deck and fencing. Once these were in order, construction could begin. With such a large-scale project, Leigh had to arrange an extensive team of both general contractors and specialists to get the job done. Demolition crew, carpenters, electricians, and plumbers were active during the early stages while glaziers, stonemasons, painters, and floor layers came in later to address the cosmetic details. 

Unfortunately, issues with the original cabinet-maker caused significant delays, but Leigh responded quickly and decisively to find an experienced alternative who would complete the job and maintain the project’s meticulous level of craftsmanship.

A complete transformation

Access to Ben and Prue’s property was limited and Leigh had to manage on-site waste removal. To facilitate this, Leigh arranged for waste bin pick-up and drop-offs to be made during the middle of the day when fewer cars lined the street - a smart solution to what is a typical inner-Melbourne problem. 

Ben and Prue were happy with Leigh’s management of the challenges throughout the five-month renovation. And the results speak for themselves. Two outstanding features of the project are the bi-fold door leading to the tranquil outdoor living area, and the original kitchen cabinetry that was repurposed into stylish display shelving, with bespoke lighting, in the lounge. Leigh accomplished an impressive result, on time and within budget, delivering all that Ben and Prue hoped for - and more. 

Would you like to discuss your home renovation ideas?

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