Redcliffs masterpiece

As experienced renovators with a keen eye for detail, the buyers of this property in Redcliffs, Christchurch immediately saw its potential. With no option to extend the home, they contacted builder Ashley Andrews to validate their ideas for a contemporary makeover. Ashley and his team at AO Builders then transformed the 2012 architecturally designed property into a stylish and functional family home, brimming with elegant touches. 

“The original discussion was to reconfigure the master suite and replace the original staircase, which was deemed unsafe. But it quickly evolved into a full overhaul of the kitchen and living spaces, three bathrooms, and an extensive interior and exterior upgrade,” explains Ashley. 

Central to the transformation is a stunning feat of engineering: an impressive, fabricated steel spiral staircase that stands proudly in the home’s grand entry. “As the original home was built around the former glass staircase, featuring prominent steel supports embedded in the wall and ceiling, significant work was required to remove it,” says Ashley. “We dissected sections of the concrete floor and reinforced it to support the 1,200 kilograms of new steel. The stairwell wall was rebuilt with bluestone tiles aligned precisely with the existing framing. It was a challenge, but the result is phenomenal.” 

Throughout the home, luxury detailing was a priority. The lavish kitchen features custom oak cabinetry, integrated lighting, a hidden scullery, and a striking Titanium Gold granite island with a leathered finish. Structural walls were cropped and replaced with steel beams to reinforce the upper level. “The new layout has opened up additional views over the water and created an effortless flow in the living areas,” say the homeowners. 

To create an apartment-like master suite, 20 metres of concrete block wall and three windows were removed, with structural bracing added to achieve the homeowners’ must-have: a Juliet balustrade offering 180 degree views of the city. The adjoining dressing room layout, hand sketched by the owner, combines elegance and function. Transformed from two rooms, it features full height solid oak cabinetry with mirror and ribbed accents, and a marble topped dressing table. 

Upgrading the 468m² home while managing the complexities of two levels of solid concrete demanded perseverance. “The structure was a concrete jungle, with each reconfiguration requiring navigation of a web of central heating pipes, underfloor heating cables, plumbing, and technology – as well as manoeuvring with minimal ceiling cavity,” says Ashley. 

The final result is a testament to the homeowners’ meticulous eye for detail and the expertise of AO Builders. “We enjoyed the project from start to finish and it was rewarding to bring the homeowners’ vision to life,” says Ashley. 

The homeowners agree, with the result exceeding all expectations. “A house that lacked personality has been transformed into a refined family home, filled with beautiful and unique features. We love living here.” 

Location: Christchurch | Canterbury

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