Modern grace
Interior design by Shaw Design adds updated elegance to a freshly renovated Auckland villa.
WORDS Cassie Doherty PHOTOGRAPHY Mark Scowen
The warmth of the concrete floor colour by PeterFell creates cohesion between the new extension and the original house. The wide range of options for coloured concrete includes neutrals, charcoals, terracottas and even pastels.
When a couple with two young children bought this character villa in the leafy suburb of Pt Chevalier in Tāmakimakaurau Auckland, it was with the intention to extend and renovate, creating a home perfectly suited to modern family life.
A modern wing added to the rear expands the kitchen, dining and living areas and allows for more space in the original house for sleeping and relaxing. It’s the best of both worlds but raises the question of how to marry old and new? Enter interior designer Chantelle Shaw of Shaw Design in Tauranga.
“It was important to retain and enhance the original charm of the villa while the modern extension showcases clean lines and modern architectural elements, leading to a beautiful seamless blend of classic and contemporary design,” she says. “The result is a home that feels both welcoming and spacious, with a sense of history and modern comfort effortlessly intertwined.”
The key is in the choice of materials. Organic, natural and durable finishes throughout are harmonious, with a contemporary look that still honours the original house.
Polished concrete floors in the extension were used for their warmth, durability and style. “We tinted the concrete colour to tie into the warm tones used throughout.”
Internal shutters by Santa Fé encapsulate the clean lines of the interiors with a nod to traditional character. In the living area are Woodlore Plus Shutters in Pure White with Invisible Tilt. Waterproof versions are in the bathrooms.
White shutters and sheer drapery are comfortable and stylish, as are the timber floors and joinery and brass accents. “With rich textures, luxurious finishes and bespoke details, this home is a true sanctuary,” says Chantelle.
There are playful elements too. “We chose a strong coloured tile for the master ensuite, different from the main bathroom, to add a point of interest and for a moody and romantic feel. Often we repeat materials in multiple places, so it was nice to choose something that was distinct but still had cohesion to the design.”
With her years of experience, Chantelle has perfected the recipe for successful interiors for any new build or renovation. “Plan everything in advance. Lay out budgets, and figure out your must-haves and nice-to-haves,” she says. “Expect surprises, especially with old buildings. And if you’re not someone who can visualise things in a space, definitely engage with a designer!”
Think about the end-use of your home, she advises. Ask yourself who will live there, what you value, and how long you intend to stay. Try not to get fixed on current trends – save that for furnishings which are easy to update.
Every design project Shaw Design undertakes follows a process. “We think about how the homeowners will interact with each space, and what practicalities need to be considered. Once plans are being finalised, we work with the client to decide on a style or look. From there we prepare in-depth finishing schedules, including joinery, lighting, fixtures and appliances. We work closely with homeowners to uncover their unique style and requirements, designing spaces that reflect who they are while anticipating how their needs may evolve over time.” I
n this project, as always, the kitchens and bathrooms were carefully planned. They’re the most complex and expensive to upgrade, and they add instant value and saleability to a home.
“Bedrooms and living areas are easy to change up, kitchens and bathrooms require trades, permits and structural changes. For this reason, it’s a great idea to stay with a look that will age well, using materials that are timeless.”
She’s really pleased with the end result. “The project ran seamlessly, even though the house is in Auckland and we are based in Tauranga. And we love it, we’re really happy with how it’s turned out. It feels like a warm hug on arrival as you transition through the original classic part of the home through into the vast, light-drenched modern space.”
From Tile Space, the Shale Sand Matt Ribbed tile brings organic texture and a linear design, and the pink Microtiles Joint Terracotta Matt tile adds a fun aesthetic.
