Denman
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Municipality: Victoria
A CENTURY-OLD HOME WELCOMES A BRIGHT NEW FUTURE WITH A FULL UPGRADE
Since 1907, this home has seen many generations walk through its doors. It’s held countless cherished memories and stood as an anchor in the Fernwood neighbourhood. By all measures, it’s done well for 120 years. Today, a top-to-bottom transformation continues the legacy, ushering in contemporary liveability so its young family can flourish.
This complete Victoria home renovation addressed every square inch, resolving issues created by a century’s worth of alterations. From a new foundation to a new metal roof, from relocated stairs to security technology, this home is optimized for the homeowners’ safety, comfort, and lifestyle.
Early stages involved removing the back of the home to accommodate the new kitchen design. In that process, we encountered rot that the homeowners were happy to be rid of. Rebuilding not only resolved structural integrity but also added square footage to the kitchen.
Inside, the kitchen received the most dramatic update in style and flow. With a new layout, the kitchen now features a large, rectangular island in place of an awkward L-shaped one. A new, oversized window sits above a unique farmhouse sink, allowing the parents a clear view of their kids playing in the backyard. It also floods the kitchen with natural light, along with the other new windows installed. An abundance of two-toned, slim shaker cabinetry increases storage with style, set against light-toned surfaces and modern appliances for an enduring look.
One special request by the homeowners: an eat-in area in the kitchen. Our response was a cozy, light-filled corner, complete with built-in banquet seating for comfortable meals, homework, or arts & crafts. From here, we kept a pass-through for visibility into the formal dining area and the living room beyond. The kitchen is now an inviting heart of the home with ultimate family functionality in mind.
Off the kitchen, new stairs with a skylight lead up to the primary suite. The previous stairs were problematic — in a different location and too narrow — so the Flintstones team moved and rebuilt them. The stairs are now up to code and accommodate a new walk-in closet and ensuite bathroom on the level above.
The home’s basement also saw changes. Previously a secondary suite, we reconfigured it to host two hobby spaces: a woodshop and an art studio. In addition, a small guest room gives in-laws and other visitors a space of their own.
We completed
- New foundation
- New envelope, including membrane and Hardie® siding
- Roof repair above primary suite and new metal roof for entire home
- Vinyl plank flooring and porcelain tile throughout entire home
- All new windows
- Skylight installation
- Removal and reframing of the entire back half of the home
- New front walkway and entrance staircase
- New drainage system
- Entire primary ensuite bathroom and refinishing of secondary bathroom
- New electrical service, panel, and rewriting of 80% of the home
- Upgraded plumbing throughout
- Heated floor under tiles
- Obtaining project variance
a trusted residential construction leader offering design and build services to clients in Greater Victoria, Oak Bay, and the Gulf Islands
Client objectives
As a young family, the clients wanted a home that could grow with them. Functionality was a priority; they wanted both a family-friendly layout and designated areas just for the adults. The latter included workroom space for their creative outlets and an ensuite bathroom. Aesthetically, the homeowners desired a modern refresh that would feel warm yet timeless.
Project Challenges
For this Victoria home renovation, our first priority was correcting structural issues, such as leaning exterior walls and rot from improper ventilation and flashing. We also rebuilt most of the interior walls, improving the home’s efficiency and promoting a healthier indoor environment. Relocating and rebuilding the staircase resulted in an easier flow from one level to another.
Service That Goes Beyond, Every Time
The Flintstones team works hard to ensure our clients enjoy a positive, seamless experience. With every home renovation, our team:
- Works onsite within acceptable hours
- Sends letters to neighbours informing them of the renovation
- Offers open communication to the neighbours
- Ensures the worksite is safe and clean by storing materials and equipment out of the way
- Handles the municipal permitting processes
In addition, this year-long Victoria home renovation required our homeowners to live away from the property, so we hosted biweekly site visits so they could check in on progress. We also prioritized clear communication and transparency throughout, with them and their neighbours.
