Where history meets home

A charming bach in the Queen Charlotte Sounds has been given a thoughtful and stylish transformation, thanks to the expertise of Avril Heard-Woollcombe, the owner of Karibu Interior Design. With over two decades of experience in the industry, Avril has built a reputation for her ability to cater to the unique needs of her clients. 55

Her latest project showcases her ability to balance modern functionality with nostalgia, ensuring that the bach retains its historic character while receiving a much-needed refresh. Originally constructed in the early 1800s as one of only two cottages in the bay, the bach holds a deep connection to the area’s history. Avril’s challenge was to maintain its rustic vibe while making it more functional for modern use. The result is a space that feels warm, welcoming, and effortlessly in tune with its surroundings. Every element, from the muted greens on the exterior to the moody blues and fresh neutrals within, was carefully chosen to create a blend between old and new.

The kitchen is a focal point of the renovation, embodying a balance of practicality and personality. Designed with functionality at its core, it needed to accommodate multiple people cooking together while maintaining a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. Avril and her client worked closely with Max George Joinery, a local joinery company, to bring the vision to life with a hands-on approach. The materials were selected for both durability and aesthetic appeal, including plywood for cabinetry and stainless-steel linen finish for the benchtops. Thoughtful details like raw ply edges, cut-out pull handles, and sliding retro shelf cupboards add to the space’s rustic charm. A standout feature is the custom glass map splashback, which serves as a practical guide for the clients, showcasing local waters and fishing spots. Another key element was the preservation of the family’s oak booze cabinet, which remains a centrepiece beside the newly installed kitchen unit, integrating sentimental value into the new design.

The client’s request was for a colour scheme that allowed the bach to blend into its natural surroundings while feeling fresh and updated. Avril approached this with a palette of muted greens for the exterior. Inside, the main living space and hallway were kept light and neutral to maximise the sense of openness, while the bedrooms were personalised with moody blues and soft greens. 64

Perhaps the most significant challenge was ensuring the bach retained its quintessential old-world charm while introducing contemporary elements. Avril achieved this by carefully selecting materials, colours, and furnishings that honoured the bach’s history while providing modern comfort. Each design decision, from reupholstered vintage armchairs to the repurposing of existing kitchen chairs, reflected the client’s desire to preserve the past while embracing the present.

One of the most striking changes occurred in the master bedroom, where a new window was installed to frame the stunning bay views. This simple yet effective addition allows the clients to wake up to breathtaking scenery while still ensuring privacy, thanks to the wooden shutter designed to be opened, closed, or tilted as needed. Throughout the bach, elements of nostalgia are interwoven with fresh design choices. The use of scatter cushions on the corner sofa adds relaxed comfort, while the collection of Kiwiana, family heirlooms, and marine memorabilia gives the space an unmistakable sense of home.

As Avril puts it, “Designs for the way you live” is at the core of her philosophy. The Queen Charlotte Sounds bach renovation is a carefully curated retreat that celebrates its past while being perfectly suited for the present.

Contact details:

Karibu Interior Design
 027 257 2121
info@karibudesign.co.nz
www.karibuinteriordesign.co.nz