Progress at Cockle Bay Full Reno

Home exterior showing structural transformation during a home renovation project, featuring a deck and backyard.

On 12 December, we shared an exterior drone video of a major structural transformation and full reno currently underway. We’re now just over a month into the project, and some areas are already taking shape beautifully!

Once the scaffolding and edge protection were installed, we were able to complete the shrink wrap. Shortly after, we carried out an internal inspection to ensure everything was fully weather-tight and leak-free.

One of the first major tasks was installing the new staircase. This required demolishing the existing staircase and creating a new upstairs doorway to suit the updated layout (See stair photos and second video).

The new staircase arrived soon after, having been pre-made, then followed by the delivery of several key building materials over the next two weeks. These included H2.1 framing timber, bathroom tiles, roof trusses, and more recently, the new windows.

Work initially began upstairs before moving downstairs. By tackling similar tasks across multiple areas at once, we’re able to progress more efficiently and keep the project moving forward faster for our client. From installing building paper on the upper front of the house to addressing early challenges in the conservatory area, where unexpected issues were discovered behind the gib—then we were then able to move into framing. The bathrooms really started to take shape once the tiler came on site.

Alongside this, we’ve completed additional electrical work to tidy wiring, plumbing installations with the usual pressure testing to ensure no leaks, and insulation in several areas. Measurements, checks, and quality control, including H&S are part of our daily routine to ensure everything meets our standards.

There is still plenty to do, but progress is strong, inspections are going well, and best of all, our clients have been fantastic. They’ve been incredibly understanding and positive while continuing to live and work on-site. When clients stay focused on the result and enjoy being part of the journey, it makes all the difference! What lies ahead is years of comfort, style, and enjoyment—and we love helping bring that vision to life. We look forward to sharing another update with you in about a month’s time.

Our capabilities extend far beyond soft finishes. We thrive on challenges and specialise in complex structural work, stripping homes back to the bones so every detail can be perfected through to the final touch. Because only the best is good enough.

If you’re looking for a master builder with 30+ years of experience, get in touch with us here.

Author:

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Angie

Angie has been in construction for 25 years, with a 5-year break where she worked as a Property Manager, gaining valuable insight into property maintenance. She excels as the Office Manager for Retro Construction and currently serves as their Project Coordinator and Office Manager. Her highest qualification is in the legal field, in which she worked for the first 7 years of her career. Since schooldays, being in a technical school, she knew her forte would be construction. She also has 4 years of business qualifications to support her role.