Villa Renovations: A Journey Through Time and Craftsmanship

New Zealand villas are a cherished part of the country’s architectural heritage, renowned for their character, craftsmanship, and timeless appeal. Many of these homes, dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, offer incredible opportunities for thoughtful renovation. However, they also come with challenges that demand care and expertise. Renovating a villa is as much about preserving its charm—when desired—as it is about modernising its functionality and comfort.

Insulation: A Key to Comfort

Villas were typically built without insulation, falling short of modern energy efficiency standards. While basic insulation may have been added to roofs or floors over the years, walls are rarely insulated unless major renovations were undertaken after 1978, when thermal insulation standards were introduced.

Adding insulation to these homes can be a complex process, especially for walls with match lining, hard lining, or skillion roofs in lean-to additions. Achieving compliance with current Building Code requirements while maintaining the villa’s character—if desired—requires a balanced and client-focused approach.

Foundations and Floors

The original timber floors of villas, supported by native timber piles, are a defining feature. Though beautiful, these floors often show signs of settlement, unevenness, and damage such as borer infestation or splitting.

Subfloor ventilation and bracing often fail to meet modern standards, contributing to thermal inefficiency and potential moisture problems. Strengthening and upgrading these features ensures a solid foundation for a modern, comfortable living environment.

Walls, Cladding, and Internal Linings

Villas’ walls tell the story of their era. Constructed from rough-sawn native timbers like rimu, kauri, or tōtara, they are typically clad in rusticated weatherboards. Interiors feature match lining overlaid with scrim and wallpaper, creating richly textured spaces.

For clients who value heritage preservation, retaining or replicating these features can create stunning results. However, renovations can also take a more modern approach, replacing outdated materials to suit contemporary preferences while addressing issues like undersized framing and moisture penetration.

Windows, Doors, and Joinery

Single-glazed sash windows and panelled timber doors, complemented by ornate joinery, are hallmarks of villa design. These elements contribute to the home’s charm but also allow for draughts and heat loss.

Whether the goal is to preserve or replace, thermal performance can be improved through secondary glazing, draught sealing, or modern alternatives designed to complement or update the villa’s style.

Roofs and Roofing Details

The corrugated iron roofs of villas, with their iconic hips and gables, define the homes’ silhouettes. While many villas have been reroofed, issues like internal guttering, corrosion, and inadequate framing often persist.

Restoration approaches can vary from preserving original detailing for historical value to reimagining the roof with contemporary materials for enhanced performance and durability.

Interior Features and Finishes

High ceilings (3–3.6 metres), panelled fireplaces, and intricately moulded ceiling roses are just some of the exquisite details found in villa interiors. Picture rails, decorative friezes, and vintage wallpapers evoke a sense of history and elegance.

Your villa’s interior can be preserved, modernised, or a blend of both, depending on your vision. Whether it’s retaining the craftsmanship or introducing bold, contemporary elements, the possibilities are tailored to meet your desires.

The Joys and Challenges of Villa Renovation

Renovating a villa isn’t just about updating a property—it’s about adapting a piece of history to meet your unique needs and lifestyle. Each villa presents its own quirks, challenges, and opportunities, making every project a collaborative journey.

At Butterfield Bathrooms, we specialise in transforming villa bathrooms into modern, functional spaces while respecting the vision of each homeowner. Whether preserving the past or embracing the future, we’re here to make your renovation a seamless success.

Contact us today to discuss how we can help you reimagine your villa bathroom to align with your style and priorities.

More bathroom renovations by Butterfield