Full Internal Renovation + Cladding Repairs – Remuera, Auckland

The Brief

This project came to us through interior designer Sarah Foote, who was leading the design for Denise + Howe's recently purchased Remuera home. The vision was already well established – a light, calm interior with opened-up living spaces and refreshed finishes throughout. Our role was to bring that vision to life – and in an existing home, that takes more than just following drawings. We brought experienced problem-solving, a strong focus on build quality, and the ability to navigate whatever the house threw at us while keeping the design intent intact.

As it turned out, this project would test all of that.

The Challenge

Renovations have a way of revealing things you didn't expect. As we got into the work – shifting walls and opening up spaces – Auckland's weather decided to test the house. And it failed. We noticed significant leaking in several areas and found that a lot of the exterior cladding was in poor condition. Previous owners (or trades) had done some patchy repairs that weren't up to scratch: flashings weren't installed correctly, clearances were wrong, and sections of cladding were failing.

Rather than patch over the problems, we went around the entire house, identified everything that needed addressing, and got it sorted properly. Failing cladding was removed and replaced, flashings were corrected, and the whole exterior was restained. It added time and cost, but it means the home is now weathertight and protected for the long term.

The Design

Sarah's vision for this home was light, calm, and uncluttered. Walls came down on the ground floor to open up the living and dining areas, creating a connected split-level space that flows easily. A custom see-through shelving unit sits between the lounge and dining zones, adding interest without blocking light or sightlines.

Upstairs, the main bedroom was reconfigured to include a proper walk-in wardrobe and a refreshed ensuite. The main bathroom was fully redone with a spacious walk-in shower, dual vessel basins, and wall-mounted tapware – practical without being fussy. Downstairs, the powder room and laundry also received full upgrades.

Throughout the home, new pale timber flooring and fresh carpet were laid, every room was repainted, and the lighting was reconfigured to suit the new layout. A new front door – white with a matte black handle – completed the exterior refresh. The glass balustrade around the staircase adds a modern, open feel while keeping things safe and unobtrusive.

The Result

What started as an interior renovation became something more – a home that's not only lighter, brighter, and better suited to modern living, but also properly protected from the elements. The serene colour palette and carefully considered details make the space feel calm and inviting, while the cladding repairs give Denise + Howe peace of mind for years to come.

It's a good reminder that sometimes the most important work isn't the stuff you see every day – but it's just as essential to getting a great result.