Princes Street Project

Princes Street Project | 2023–2024
Hawera, Taranaki

This 415m² Art Deco residence in Hawera underwent a comprehensive two-stage remodel, transforming a well-loved but dated 1920s home into a fully modernised family residence — while carefully preserving the character details that make it what it is. The project was developed in close collaboration with Cambie Architectural Design Ltd.

From the start, the build was sequenced to keep the Baylis family in their home throughout. RP Builders completed the full upstairs renovation first, allowing the clients to move back upstairs before work began on the ground floor — eliminating the need for temporary accommodation over a 12-month project. It required careful planning and consistent communication, but it meant the family remained close to the process at every stage.

The structural work required to bring a century-old home up to modern standards were as expected. Beams were replaced, and floors and walls were carefully levelled and trued throughout, giving the finished interior the solid, even foundation it needed. On the exterior, the entire home was recoated in Rockcote, finished in a swirled roughcast that matches the original texture. It was a decision made in close conversation with the clients, and one that paid off: the house reads as a whole, with no visible join between old and new.

Throughout the remodel, the home’s Art Deco bones were respected. The leadlight window on the staircase landing was retained, the original decorative ceiling details were preserved, and the stairwell was left structurally unchanged. On the roof, the clay tile dormers — a defining feature of the roofline — were kept in place while the main roof was re-laid in Colorsteel. The 30m² master bedroom extension reconfigured the entire upper floor, creating a generous suite with a large walk-in wardrobe and ensuite, while the wider renovation added a further bedroom and multiple new ensuites throughout the home. Cabinetry for the new kitchen and laundry was crafted by Hawera Kitchens, bringing a clean, considered finish to the most-used spaces in the home.

Client Review

“Over the last four years RP Builders have worked on my home, my parents’ home, and on rental and commercial projects. They are knowledgeable, professional, and a delight to work with — even after living through a 12-month renovation! From owner to apprentices, this family business is reliable, adaptable, and always respectful, making me feel heard and valued as a woman leading these projects.” — Jo Baylis

Specifications

• COLORSTEEL Maxam® roofing on main roof

• Clay tile dormers retained

• Rockcote roughcast render — swirled finish to match original

• Full interior reline and redecoration throughout

• Multiple new ensuites added

• Complete re-tiling and upgraded bathroom fixtures

• New floor coverings throughout

• Master bedroom extension with walk-in wardrobe and ensuite

• Leadlight staircase window and original Art Deco ceiling details retained

• Outdoor living patio areas including spa pool set partially in-ground.

The Team