A pink magnolia in bloom frames this 1920s bungalow restoration, where sunlight and gentle shadows play across interiors blending heritage charm with modern living in a tranquil garden setting. Read our clients’ own story below.
St Martins Renovation – A 1920s Bungalow Restored and Reimagined
You might relate to this project if you…
-
Own a villa or bungalow you love, but it’s tired, damaged or no longer quite working
-
Want to keep the character while improving comfort, safety and everyday functionality
-
Are facing earthquake repairs and want them handled carefully, not rushed
-
Value clear communication and coordination between architects, insurers and builders
-
Dream of a light-filled kitchen and dining space that connects beautifully to your garden
A Long Relationship with a Much-Loved Home
There’s something enduringly special about Christchurch character homes. The weight of history, the finely crafted details, and the way a house gathers stories over decades create a sense of belonging that no new build can quite replicate.
For Marcia and Angus, their 1920s bungalow in St Martins had been home for many years. Their relationship with Chaplin Crooks Architects stretches back more than two decades, to 2002, when they first sought help to make alterations better suited to life with a young family.
When the earthquakes struck and the house was damaged, they knew exactly who they wanted to trust with the repairs and renovations to their much-loved home and garden.
“We wanted the repairs carried out in a way that was not only faithful to but also enhanced the character of our home. We called on Chaplin Crooks to oversee our project so we could be confident that everything was being done in our best interests.”
Repairing with Respect
The earthquake damage demanded significant intervention. The bungalow had to be carefully lifted so new foundations could be constructed beneath — no small feat given the tight boundaries and the sheltering trees that formed part of the established garden.
The construction process required thoughtful planning and close collaboration between everyone involved.
“Greg was very effective in his communication with us and all the people involved, including other building industry professionals, insurance agents, suppliers and builders.”
The repairs were not treated as a quick fix. Instead, the team used this moment to secure the structure for the future and to think strategically about how the house could function even better for daily life.
Character Features Preserved and Reimagined
Many of Christchurch’s remaining character homes include details that can’t easily be replicated today. In this bungalow, the original windows were a particular treasure — delicately arched, with bubble-patterned glazing that caught the light in a way new glass never could.
Rather than lose these during alterations, Chaplin Crooks carefully removed them, repaired them and reinstalled them in other areas of the house so their presence could still be enjoyed.
“We were so pleased that we have been able to reuse original parts of the house in the renovation, it adds a special touch to the new work.”
The chimney was another feature close to the owners’ hearts. Lost in the earthquakes, it was painstakingly rebuilt using historic photos as reference and specially sourced patterned bricks to recreate its decorative emblem. The new chimney feels so authentic that it appears to have always been there.
“The repairs were meticulously managed, and the details were kept faithful to the house character. We are thrilled with the results!”
This sensitivity to detail — and respect for the spirit of the original design — is what helps the new work feel seamless, as though it has always been part of the old.
Light, Space and Garden Connections
The most transformative part of the project is the new addition to the rear of the bungalow: a contemporary kitchen and dining area that embraces natural light and connects directly to the garden.
Technology played an important role. Using a computer model, Marcia and Angus could explore different options for rooflines, window layouts and room proportions, and understand how the addition would feel before any work began.
“Being able to see the computer model of our home helped us to understand the scale of the addition and what the new kitchen space was like. We could try out different roof shapes and window layouts so we knew we would get it right first time.”
The addition has changed the rhythm of daily life. Mornings begin in a bright, sunlit kitchen; evenings spill through large sliding doors onto a new terraced patio. Views of the established garden — including a vibrant pink rhododendron that bursts into colour each spring — now feel like part of the interior.
“We are delighted with our beautiful new garden kitchen and its large sliding doors opening onto a new terraced patio. Its design is superb. This has modernised our house and opened it up to our back garden.”
A Christchurch Character Home Reimagined
The completed project is both faithful and forward-looking. It combines the careful restoration of a 1920s bungalow with a fresh, modern addition that supports contemporary family living.
The home is now safe, light-filled and functional, yet every detail — from the reinstated windows to the rebuilt chimney — speaks to the heritage of the house and the memories it holds.
For Marcia and Angus, it’s more than just a renovation. It’s the reassurance that their cherished bungalow has been secured for the future, the delight of new spaces that fit their lifestyle, and the joy of seeing old character details celebrated and preserved.
For Chaplin Crooks Architects, it reflects a core ethos as Christchurch residential architects: listening closely to what clients love most about their homes, respecting existing character, and creating thoughtful design solutions that balance heritage with modern living.
This St Martins renovation shows what’s possible when earthquake repairs become an opportunity to reimagine — when a much-loved character house can be both restored and renewed, ready to serve its family for decades to come.
Ready to explore what’s possible while keeping the character?
→ Book a free consultation — or call for a quick chat.
Not sure where to start? → Visit Start Here for guidance on each project type, plus the most relevant examples.
Photography: Chaplin Crooks Architects
Contractor: Nathan Cook Builders Ltd
Structural Engineers: Lewis Bradford Consulting Engineers
