
Coastal home refresh — Bay of Plenty
A thoughtful refresh to maximise light, resilience and low-maintenance coastal materials for a seaside family home.
Project overview
This coastal refresh focussed on improving cross-ventilation, durable finishes for salt air and a calm palette to connect interiors with the seascape. We preserved original joinery where feasible and introduced moisture‑resistant cabinetry and textile choices suitable for beachside living.
- Scope: Living, kitchen, master bedroom and entry
- Timeline: 8 weeks design + 6–10 weeks build
- Main goals: durability, light, storage, low maintenance

Gallery — before & after




Design & delivery process
Key milestones
- Initial site visit & site-measurement pack
- Concept moodboard & material palette
- Detailed drawings & joinery schedules
- Procurement, contractor tendering & build
- Styling and handover
Materials & fixtures
Engineered stone benchtops
Reclaimed timber shelving
Outdoor-grade textilesClient feedback

Project specifications
| Location | Bay of Plenty |
|---|---|
| Project type | Residential coastal refresh |
| Budget range | NZD 45k–85k (typical) |
| Duration | Design 6–8 weeks, build 6–10 weeks |
| Sustainability | Reclaimed materials, low‑VOC finishes |
Lead designer

Sofia Zavirelli — Principal Designer
Sofia specialises in NZ coastal homes, combining modern minimalism with durable material choices and a pragmatic approach to natural light and ventilation.
Frequently asked questions
How do you protect interiors from salt?
We specify marine-grade fastenings, sealed joinery, electroplated hardware and sacrificial elements where salt exposure is highest. Regular maintenance guidance is provided at handover.
Do you work remotely for clients outside Auckland?
Yes — we offer remote consultations, measured drawings and procurement management nationwide.