Simple Reno, Maximum Impact
Making “Tidy” the New “Wow” Factor!
Not every project requires a massive structural overhaul! At Retro Construction, we understand that for many homeowners, the greatest achievement is simply having a tidy home, and for them, that is their “wow factor!”
If you are on a limited budget, smaller, soft renovations can make the world’s difference. We specialise in identifying cost-effective improvements that leverage the inherent quality of especially older homes when needed, but off course we can assist within any budget. We understand that a rental budget and need is different from that of an owner occupied home where comfort and style is super important! We are currently busy with one of those type of renovations where only the best is important as our client will still be occupying the property for many years to come, but for this Newsletter our emphasis will be on Making “Tidy”/ “Soft Renovations”.
Most owners/investors only focus on soft renovations when placing a new tenant and here we are a step ahead of other building companies, as we also have property management experience within our scope of experience, which means we know exactly how to manage a renovation that will be tenant occupied and understand that the actual project including the plan of execution, management style, cost, and timelines are very different than an owner occupied property!
As an example on the above project photos:
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We focused on “tidying up” this home by closing a gaping gap by the front door, whilst preparing and repainting it.
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We then used Resene’s black-white, semi-gloss paint and sealed trims with polyurethane, making the quality wood trims and finishes look brand new and well looked after again.
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Fresh lace and updated lighting made the world’s difference for this home.
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We even preserved some neat wallpaper, recognising that this trend has never really died off and some wallpaper designs has even stood the test of time, and adding new lighting to these walls with the wallpaper on just brightened the whole room!
We bring QUALITY BUILDING SOLUTIONS to projects of all sizes. We can help you achieve a high standard, modern feel without breaking the bank or we can go all the way creating your dream home for years to come!
Need help?
Our team can assist. Click here!
Project Spotlight
Mount Wellington Renovation Reveal
We are absolutely thrilled to share the final photos of our Mount Wellington renovation. The goal was to create a warm, natural tone throughout the home, and we think we nailed it!
Check out the finished details:
- Paint colour: Eighth Tea
- Hardfloors: Hailstone Sand (Now fully installed!)
- Carpet: Pearl shade, paired with a Dunlop underlay
This careful combination of colours creates the perfect warm look needed for the space. If you are interested in transforming your own space, remember we handle everything from additions and reclads to renovations, offering competitive pricing.
From the Toolbox: Tip of the Month
In Auckland, we are lucky to have housing stock filled with character – from sturdy 1960s brick-and-tile units to classic villas! Often, homeowners think they need a full “gut job” to modernise, but we find that a “simple reno” approach can be just as effective – if you are on a budget. The trick is to embrace the existing quality materials, rather than covering them up.
Instead of ripping out or painting over original native timber doors and trims, try sealing them with a high-quality polyurethane. This makes the wood look brand new and highlights the quality “bones” of the house, that will last forever. Pair this with a fresh coat of modern paint on the walls – we recently did this on a refresh project – you can see it here.
The contrast between the warm, restored native timber and the crisp, modern walls, bridges the gap between traditional character and modern style, saving you the cost of a full demolition!
Did You Know?
Insurance Responsibilities for Renovations and Extensions
This Q&A resource provides guidance for homeowners and builders on managing insurance during renovation and extension projects. It clarifies why clients should rather arrange contract works insurance if its not a new build – as it holds multiple benefits – discusses more important detail about the building and renovating cover, but also mentions the other needed covers companies my hold that could be beneficial to clients, how costs are affected, and what liabilities apply when coverage is not properly arranged before the project starts.
Granny Flats in NZ: New Rules, Tenant Rights & What Homeowners Need to Know
Small standalone dwellings, commonly known as ‘granny flats,’ have been a hot topic lately. The government is exploring ways to make it easier for homeowners to build these additional living spaces without needing building or resource consent. Between June and August last year, the Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment (MBIE) and the Ministry for the Environment (MfE) conducted a public consultation to simplify the approval process for granny flats.
The Truth About Prelim Costs
Preliminary costs (P&G) cover the essential operational and management costs associated with setting up, operating, and closing a construction site, funding the necessary infrastructure and systems required to deliver the project from start to finish. These costs are critical for ensuring site safety, legal conformity with requirements like the Building Act 2004, and efficient project execution, often accounting for 11–15% of the total contract cost on standard projects.
FREE $335 DESIGN CONSULTATION:
ONE SPOT ONLY, WORTH $1000
We’re covering the entire cost for ONE lucky client who is currently in (or about to enter) a Preliminary Agreement with Retro Construction.
What you get, completely complimentary:
✓ Private 1-hour consultation with TWO professional designers
✓ Exclusive access to a 7,000+ product showroom (everything for your whole home in one place)
✓ Create your own take-home mood board
✓ Expert guidance on materials & finishes BEFORE your build even starts
✓ Avoid long lead-time headaches, lock in better pricing, and keep your project running smoothly from day one.
Only ONE client will receive this fully-covered session. Everyone else can still book the same experience through us at the heavily discounted and negotiated rate of $335, worth over $1000.
Want it to be YOU? Drop us an email here: info@retroconstruction.co.nz
More information & Terms here.
Clients – Track Your Job with Buildxact
In our last Newsletter we introduced our new portal. This link is now on our website under the “Portal” heading/tab, making it even easier for our clients! Also, here is the information again on how to access and use it:
We will send you an invite wherein you can create an account. You can then go to the portal login page: Navigate to https://retroconstruction.co.nz/ then click the portal link in the menu. Access the project portal: Once logged in, you will be able to view shared documents, communicate, and access all project information in one place.
Book Early: We’re Filling Fast
Friendly reminder to schedule work or consultations in advance. We are fully booked for January since last year and filling up fast for February.
Looking to renovate? Now’s the time to book a site meeting or planning session.
Call 09 532 8484
Email: info@retroconstruction.co.nz
