There’s something quietly magical about a 1960’s cottage especially one that hasn’t been touched since the 80’s. Beneath the well-worn finishes and very memorable carpets, this home had beautiful bones, and an incredibly strong hardwood frame that caused a few injuries along the way. Its now soft light, and a story worth keeping.
This project was for a young couple starting out, with a clear goal: bring the home into the present without losing its cottage soul (and without blowing the budget). My kind of brief.
We kept the layout largely intact to save costs and focused on the spaces that matter most - kitchen, bathroom, laundry, and bedrooms; making each one feel lighter, more functional, and timeless without overdoing it.
Paint became one of the biggest game changers. Inside, we chose Natural White paired with soft pale oak tones to keep things warm and airy. Outside, the cottage was refreshed in Pebble Bay Quarter by Taubman’s, with Monument on the gutters for contrast and Vivid White on the front door and windows. The result is bright, fresh, and ready for its next chapter.
The bathroom is a great example of smart budgeting - we fully tiled the floors and walls but kept the original layout. It still feels spacious and modern, just without the cost of moving plumbing (which is always a win).
In the laundry, we added a farmhouse sink along with a second toilet and shower - simple additions that make a huge difference for a growing household and add real long-term value.
The kitchen and interiors were finished with clean lines and subtle black and brass accents for a bit of charm, while outside, the new cladding, bullnose veranda, and decking brought back that classic cottage feel.
My favourite detail? The reeded glass front door - letting in light while keeping privacy, and quietly tying the whole story together.
This home now feels like itself again - just brighter, calmer, and a little more practical. Proof that you don’t need a massive overhaul to create something beautiful… just thoughtful choices, a clear vision, and a bit of patience when the unexpected pops up (because it always does).Before...After PS
