88 | BUILDING Refresh Renovations Queenstown & Wanaka Specialising in repaints & fine finish spray painting Exterior/interior Residential & commercial 19 years of experience. Full dustless sanding systems Aspiring Painting & Stopping ltd Aspiringpainting@gmail.com | 027 262 5303 A new direction in home renovations At the core of the business is Refresh Renovations’ structured, five-step process, designed to remove the complexity traditionally associated with renovation projects. T T Kelly Deeks Refresh Renovations Queenstown and Wanaka is reporting a clear shift in how Central Otago homeowners are approaching their renovation projects, as demand moves away from quick cosmetic updates towards long-term, design-led investments. Refresh Renovations franchisee Kathleen Magon says the local renovation market is currently in a growth phase, with more clients taking a considered approach to how their homes function now and into the future. “What we are seeing is a real move away from small cosmetic fixes towards intentional changes that focus on quality and longevity,” she says. “People are thinking carefully about how they live in their homes and wanting to get it right the first time.” That shift is particularly evident in kitchen projects, which are increasingly being designed as multi-functional hubs rather than standalone cooking spaces. “Clients are no longer just asking for a new kitchen. They want a space that supports dining, working, studying, entertaining, and relaxing, all in one,” says Kathleen. “They want it to be something that will last, so durable materials and timeless styling are critical.” At the core of the business is Refresh Renovations’ structured, five-step process, designed to remove the complexity traditionally associated with renovation projects. “Renovations have historically been very fragmented. You engage a designer, a builder, and multiple trade specialists, and hope everything aligns. Our process brings all of that together, from initial briefing through to design, costing, and construction, with a strong focus on early budget clarity,” Kathleen explains. Upfront planning is critical, helping clients stay aligned with their original goals, while reducing the risk of budget overruns later in the project. To support the growing demand for well-considered spaces, the Queenstown and Wanaka team is now placing greater emphasis on interior design, with kitchen and bathroom projects including as standard interior design support, photo-realistic renders with real-world material selections. “It allows clients to fully understand what their space will look like before construction begins,” Kathleen says. “It is much easier and more cost-effective to make changes on paper than on-site.” Refresh Renovations Queenstown and Wanaka works with a network of trusted local suppliers and subcontractors, including Aspiring Painting and Stopping, ensuring consistent quality across each project. Alongside the shift towards long-lasting spaces, several broader trends are also emerging. Multi-generational living is becoming more common, with homeowners creating self-contained spaces for extended family or generating additional income through adaptable layouts. “We are seeing more requests for independent living areas,” Kathleen says. “With property prices where they are, people want to maximise what they already have.” Wellness-focused design is also influencing renovation choices, particularly in bathrooms, where clients are opting for calm, functional spaces with neutral tones and features that support relaxation and accessibility. At the same time, economic pressures are driving interest in reconfiguring existing floor plans rather than undertaking large-scale “What we are seeing is a real move away from small cosmetic fixes towards intentional changes that focus on quality and longevity.” extensions, with internal redesigns providing a cost-effective way to create additional space. Kathleen says kitchens, bathrooms, and master bedroom suites continue to deliver strong value, both financially and in terms of lifestyle. Looking ahead, she encourages homeowners to begin planning well in advance. “The best time to start planning is earlier than you think,” she says. “Starting early allows you to explore options and make informed decisions without pressure.” The power of the written word. New Zealand Business News, delivered to you.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NDc2Mzg=