Brunswick

Summary

Modern Addition and Extensive Renovation to a Single Fronted Victorian

Testimonials

We have used Zachary Spark Constructions twice in the last 3 years to help restore and renovate our 100 year old semi-detached single fronted brick terrace in Brunswick.

As with most houses of this age many of the original features had been removed over the years and replaced with a mismatch of icons from across the decades – brown aluminium windows, brown carpet and tiles, pink and blue paintwork, a bright pink art deco bathroom, lean-to laundry and outside toilet. With Zach’s help we were able to transform the house back to its former glory as well as move it into the next century.

The work was completed in two parts. The first stage was the restoration of the front section (facade, front two bedrooms and hallway) plus some clean up to the back of the house to make it more comfortable. Zach met with us to understand the scope of the work, provide advice and ideas on how to achieve the finish we were looking for and provided a detailed quote to explain the costs involved.

We clarified who was responsible for what and this allowed us to source our own windows and various fittings and Zach and his team installed them. The job was completed on time and on budget.

For our first renovation experience, the job went very smoothly and we were very happy with the result.

The second stage was a far more complex undertaking. The plans included the removal of the back part of the house leaving only the two front bedrooms and hallway while retaining a couple of walls at the rear of the house, The new construction consisted of a contemporary family bathroom, powder room, laundry, open plan kitchen, meals and living area and outside deck. Upstairs included a master bedroom, en-suite, study area and balcony.

As with the initial stage, we met with Zach several times over a couple of months to clarify the scope, discuss our options and budget requirements. Zach was able to provide the flexibility we required to source many of the internal finishes ourselves and coordinate some aspects of the job. Zach emphasised the importance of contingency given the age of the house, a shared party wall and the inevitable surprises that can come with any renovation.

With the contract signed it was time to start. Zach and his team progressed well and at all stages very professional. If there was a decision to be made or an inevitable surprise (and there were a few), Zach contacted us straight away and we would work through the options together and Zach would help us make a decision.

We were very particular about the look we were after and the level of finish we were expecting. We felt comfortable with leaving some decisions to Zach as we felt he understood this well. As the job progressed and the house took shape, Zach made additional suggestions to further improve the house. We are very grateful for this extra help as it has made a significant difference to the look and feel of the house.

Overall, we are extremely happy with the work Zach has done. The house is far better than we ever imagined and we thank Zach and his team for making it a reality.

Kind Regards

Daniel & Fiona Tame