Success Stories: a stunning Before and After of a Kitchen Renovation project in Napier, Hawkes Bay
Renovating a home is more than just a construction project—it's a transformation journey that breathes new life into spaces and aligns them with the lifestyle and vision of the homeowner.
In Hawkes Bay, we've had the privilege of working on some incredible renovations that showcase the power of thoughtful design and skilled craftsmanship.
This blog post highlights one such success story, where a tired, outdated home was transformed into a stunning, functional space that meets the needs of its owners.
Read on to explore the before-and-after transformation and get inspired for your own renovation project.
1. for this kitchen design in hawkes bay, we focused on Creating a New Layout for Modern Living
The first challenge with this Hawkes Bay renovation was tackling the existing floor plan. The original layout was not conducive to modern living—it was closed off, with separate rooms that felt cramped and isolated from each other. The homeowners, who love to entertain, needed a space that was open, inviting, and perfect for hosting gatherings.
To achieve this, we reimagined the floor plan by removing non-load-bearing walls and creating an open-plan living area that seamlessly connects the kitchen, dining, and living spaces. This new layout not only improves the flow of the home but also makes it feel much larger and brighter. The transformation was immediate—the home went from feeling closed off to being an open, airy space that encourages interaction and socializing.
2. we also focused on setting the Mood with Sage Green cabinetry for this kitchen design
Colour plays a crucial role in setting the tone of a space, and in this renovation, we wanted to create a calm, inviting atmosphere that matched the homeowners' lifestyle. Sage green was the perfect choice—a colour that is both timeless and trendy, bringing a sense of tranquility to the space.
We used this hue on the kitchen cabinetry, which not only adds a pop of colour but also complements the natural surroundings of Hawkes Bay.
The sage green cabinets set the mood for a relaxing environment, perfect for unwinding after a long day or enjoying a morning coffee.
Paired with white walls and light wood accents, the overall effect is soothing and harmonious, reflecting the homeowners' desire for a space that feels both modern and connected to nature.
We design functional, thoughtful,
and beautiful homes, fit for real life.
We design functional, thoughtful, and beautiful homes, fit for real life.
At FBD Interiors, our main focus is creating spaces that are both elevated and realistic for your lifestyle. And we walk through every step of the process right alongside you - whether it’s a room refresh, a new kitchen, or a full home makeover/build.
3. Another important component of this kitchen design was customising Benchtop Heights for Comfort
When it comes to designing a kitchen, functionality is just as important as aesthetics. One of the key customisations in this renovation was adjusting the benchtop height to suit the homeowners, who are slightly taller than average.
Standard benchtop heights can be uncomfortable for taller individuals, leading to strain and discomfort during meal preparation and cooking.
To solve this issue, we raised the benchtops slightly, creating a more ergonomic workspace that is tailored to the homeowners' needs.
This small but significant change has made a big difference in their daily lives, allowing them to enjoy their new kitchen without any physical discomfort.
4. another key to the success of this kitchen design was Honouring Tradition with Rimu Detailing
One of the standout features of this Hawkes Bay renovation is the careful balance between modern design and traditional elements. The home is a classic villa, and the homeowners wanted to preserve its character while updating the space to meet their contemporary needs.
To achieve this, we incorporated rimu detailing—a beautiful, native New Zealand timber—throughout the renovation.
Rimu was used for the trim, flooring, and custom shelving, adding warmth and a sense of history to the space.
This detailing was particularly important in the kitchen, where we aimed to create a transitional style that blends the old with the new. The result is a modern kitchen that still feels connected to the villa's original architecture, with rimu adding a touch of timeless elegance.
This Hawkes Bay renovation is a true success story—a perfect example of how thoughtful design, careful planning, and skilled craftsmanship can transform a home.
From reimagining the floor plan to customising the benchtop heights and incorporating beautiful rimu detailing, every decision was made with the homeowners' needs and lifestyle in mind. The result is a space that not only looks stunning but also functions perfectly for the way they live.
If you're considering a renovation in Hawkes Bay, let this transformation inspire you. With the right team and a clear vision, your home can undergo a similar metamorphosis, turning it into a place that is both beautiful and functional.