31 Ririnui Place, Maungatapu, Tauranga & Surrounds

An Inspired Waterfront Reinvention

The complete renovation of this 1980s waterfront dwelling demonstrates how a dramatic contemporary transformation can capitalise on the excellent bones of a home and send it triumphantly into the future.

While the footprint and the roofline has not changed, the rest of the home has effectively been rebuilt including the cladding made from recycled Australian hardwood.

Integral to the project was builder, Mark Taylor, owner of MLT Builders, who was very hands on. The craftsmanship shows. The architect, John Baker, interpreted the owner's desire to be faithful to the structure and integrity of the existing home, while creating a design and layout that would enhance the view that is central to the enjoyment of life here.

And, what a view! And how wonderful the way the interior invites the north-west coast, city and Kaimai Ranges panorama in and creates a clean, bright environment in which to appreciate it, inside and out. Winter sun streams right across the room and doors stack back on two corners for seamless connection with the deck. The original fireplace and display shelving and the poles that are part of the structure merge with the modernity of the monochrome décor.

Steel reinforcing beams allowed opening the space to expose the kitchen to the view as well. Here Jane from Kitchen & Interior Co. has designed an efficient and streamlined area with ample stainless steel bench, entertainer's island and 900m oven with five burners atop. Neutral tones sooth and recede, acknowledging the view is the hero here, while admitting lovely morning sun from the east.

The home spans three levels, linked by the stairs in situ as they were, now safely and aesthetically pleasingly enclosed, with custom made handrails. They curve up from the central living level (which also includes two bedrooms, bathroom, study and laundry) to the master suite where you enjoy glorious isolation with glorious outlook and glorious sunshine.

The lower level of the home is devoted to one large room - entertainment room we are calling it - with its own bathroom and doors out to the patio, deck and lawn. A pool might complete this fun domain. There is enough land. The lawn of the 1,376sqm ( more or less) property, which has riparian rights, slopes gently to the top of the bank above the water's edge. An original path could be recreated to get down for a spot of fishing, or swimming at high tide.

This is a stunning recreation of an original home and the original owners would be no doubt thrilled to know their property can continue to bring joy long into the future.