Friday, February 27, 2009

Meeting with the Architect

We went to see the new renovated architect's office not far from our place. He has converted a three level, narrow building into a new retail space on the ground, his new office on the second and a one bed apartment on the top with a deck.
A lot of the features in the apartment were modeled on our own renovation as the plans were drawn up at the same time. So its was interesting to see the things that are planned for our big renovation.
Having discussed the fact that the budget is still an issue, we have agreed to re-visit the current plans later in the year and re-tender to a new builder to see how much the market as shifted. That would then be a one year difference between tenders.
If it is still ridiculously over budget, then we will then look at taking a few of the 'wow' factors out of the original plans: simplifying the rear roof design would make a huge difference as it is. But we will see how things go. The global economic crisis is affecting the building industry and it can either serve us well or make things a bit more complicated. We will see.

Tuesday, February 24, 2009

Stage 2 mini make over: appliances in place



The finish line is close. Just sealing the benchtops and, obviously, putting on the doors.

Monday, February 23, 2009

Stage 2 mini make over: cabinets in place

Rather tall pantry.

My new cooker... can't wait to use it.

Friday, February 20, 2009

Stage 2 mini make over: A lick of paint

Just improving the wall slightly.


Wednesday, February 18, 2009

Stage 2 mini make over: floor relayed



The floor passed the inspector's high standards.
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Tuesday, February 17, 2009

Stage 2 mini make over: kitchen before and after photos

Amazing what lies behind cabinetry.

Such lovely wall paper too.

What a mess! Can't wait to have the use of a kitchen again.