Kitchen and Bathroom Transformation in Magill

Project Overview

This 1960s post-war cream-brick home in Magill received a major interior upgrade, led by Refresh Renovations Specialist Natalie Zeni and her team. The client’s vision was to create a brighter, more functional kitchen and dining area, along with a modern, family-friendly bathroom.

The original house lacked a proper dining space. To solve this, the team planned to extend the kitchen into the area previously occupied by the bathroom. At the same time, the large laundry and single toilet were reconfigured into a brand-new main bathroom.

The project came together under a tight timeline, with the client requesting completion before Christmas. Starting in mid-October and finishing just before the holidays, the team delivered a fresh, practical transformation that suited the client’s budget and timeline.

Challenges and Solutions

One of the main challenges arose during the concrete work. After demolishing the old bathroom, the floor level was uneven and unsuitable for the new laminate flooring. Pouring more concrete wasn’t an option because it wouldn’t bind properly. Instead, the team used a self-levelling compound to prepare the surface. They also applied extra underlay to balance out the lower areas.

Another challenge was the tight 8-week schedule. To stay on track, Natalie worked closely with her tradespeople and allocated the work among them. This provided sufficient buffer time for inspections and minor fixes, ensuring they did not affect progress.

Design Highlights

The kitchen and bathroom design focused on simplicity and functionality. In the kitchen, the client opted for laminate cupboards and benchtops to keep costs down while still achieving a clean, modern look. New downlights were added to brighten the space, but the original ceiling was kept intact to save time and budget.

The new bathroom now features floor-to-ceiling tiles, two updated aluminium windows, and a heater light for comfort. The floor was raised slightly to remove the step-down from the passageway, ensuring level access while creating a gentle slope in the shower for drainage.

This thoughtful layout transformed the laundry and toilet into a single, larger bathroom that’s both practical and stylish. The landing outside the old laundry was also retiled to create a seamless look throughout.

Fixtures and fittings, including the Kado toilet suite, Milli tapware, and kitchen sink, were sourced from trusted supplier Reece.

Project Execution

The Refresh team handled the entire project, from planning to handover. 

Their work included:

• Removing the old kitchen, bathroom, laundry, and toilet
• Changing the layout to make space for a bigger kitchen and bathroom
• Doing all the plumbing and electrical work
• Installing new cabinets, benchtops, and fixtures
• Plastering, painting, and getting the floors ready
• Coordination with multiple trades: carpenters, plasterers, plumbers, electricians, painters, joiners, and even a cleaner to prepare the house for handover

Despite the tight timeline and additional variations requested by the client, Natalie ensured the work stayed on schedule. Clear communication and careful coordination meant the home was ready just in time for Christmas.

Client Outcome

The client was pleased with the results. Since this was his first renovation, he trusted Natalie’s advice and felt confident in her guidance. By choosing practical designs and standard finishes, the Refresh team delivered excellent quality while staying within its budget.

The new spaces made the home feel fresh and modern. The kitchen is now the heart of the house, perfect for family meals and gatherings. The updated bathroom layout also makes daily life easier and more comfortable for everyone.

Final Thoughts

This Magill home renovation is an excellent example of how thoughtful planning and cost-conscious design can transform older homes into modern, functional spaces.

With careful planning and attention to detail, Natalie Zeni and the Refresh Renovations team finished the project on time and within budget. The home is now more practical and a better place for the family to enjoy.

No matter your budget or timeline, Refresh Renovations can help turn your home into a space you’ll love.