Wellington Couple Transforms Historic Apartment with Innovative Design

A couple in Wellington has successfully transformed a historic apartment in a former shoe factory into a modern living space, merging vintage charm with contemporary design. Graham and Jacqui Nelson, who previously resided in a villa in Mt Victoria, purchased the apartment in the Hannah’s Factory Apartments on Leeds Street after years of contemplating the move.

The pair took the plunge after Jacqui maintained contact with the real estate agent, expressing interest in the apartment when it became available. Their enthusiasm only grew after completing a major renovation that has since redefined their inner-city living experience.

Jacqui, who recently retired after a two-decade career at Contact Energy, describes their journey as both exciting and challenging. The couple’s renovations took an unexpected turn when Jacqui referred to the project as a “little titivating.” Graham had envisioned minor enhancements, but Jacqui’s definition included significant alterations, including removing internal walls and starting from scratch.

The renovation of the three-storey apartment was not without its hurdles. One memorable challenge involved craning the new kitchen through the roof on a particularly windy day. The couple now enjoys a spacious living area that reflects their unique tastes and lifestyle.

Creating a Unique Living Space

The Hannah’s Factory Apartments, originally designed by the renowned architect Ian Athfield in the 1990s, offers a blend of original and modern features. The couple’s apartment showcases beautiful steel-framed windows, many of which are original, providing a glimpse into the building’s rich history. The timber floorboards and exposed brick walls contribute to the evocative atmosphere, while the couple’s renovations have added functionality to the space.

The Nelsons have reconfigured the apartment’s layout, transforming an oversized main bedroom and two smaller rooms into three well-sized bedrooms with ample storage. Their new kitchen optimizes space, while three skylights flood the living area with natural light.

A significant design choice was the replacement of a dark timber staircase. After thoughtful deliberation, they opted for a modern steel and glass design featuring open treads of recycled timber that align with the existing floorboards. This sculptural staircase required careful planning for installation, including craning it into place.

In terms of decor, the Nelsons have employed a vibrant palette that includes chairs in bottle green, a purple sofa, and olive green bathroom cabinets. Their art collection prominently features works by New Zealand artists such as Karl Maughan and Derek Cowie, showcasing their commitment to local talent.

Living in the Heart of Wellington

The apartment is situated in a lively area, with shops and a cocktail bar at ground level. Jacqui humorously notes that the previous owners would often take their cocktails home via the lift. The proximity to a pizza outlet, chocolate factory, bakery, and various bars adds to the vibrant community atmosphere, providing a lively backdrop to their new home.

The couple has found joy in their new lifestyle, with Graham looking forward to retirement from his role as a private wealth advisor at Jarden. He reflects on the possibility of the apartment being their forever home, emphasizing the appeal of urban living.

In a recent conversation, the Nelsons shared insights into their renovation experience. They had previously rented the apartment, allowing them to gather valuable feedback from tenants about what worked well and what needed improvement. With the help of architect Clare Bush and builder Jason Lang, they successfully navigated the challenges of their extensive renovation.

Their eclectic decor style combines personal tastes with a mix of second-hand items, illustrating their distinct personalities while promoting sustainability. Jacqui advises others considering renovations to consult resources like “Choosing Colours” by Kevin McCloud, which has proven beneficial in their design process.

As they settle into their revamped living space, the Nelsons are excited about their future in this historic yet modern apartment, a remarkable blend of the past and the present in the heart of Wellington.