Our 2009 winners!
Grant Newman and Melissa Kretschmer
This couple cornered off a long driveway to create their very own ‘secret’ courtyard and relaxation zone.
Meet the homeowners
Grant Newman and Melissa Kretschmer live in Wynberg in the Western Cape. They renovated for a mere R14 000 – the deck was added at the end of the year and cost about R11 000.
Reason for renovating
About 25% of the property comprised a long driveway to the side of the house with a single garage, which we realised we could corner off to create our own ‘secret’ courtyard and entertainment room. Our first step was to convert the old garage into our new bar and reading room.
The style
The entertainment room has a strong French inspiration with the double French doors, chandelier and use of gold detailing from the wall stencilling to the mirrors.
Lessons learnt
- Start with an overall vision, then tackle the tasks one at a time.
- Never be afraid to ask for advice
- We’ve already started brainstorming our next few projects, which include our bedroom, en-suite bathroom – and the unused roof space.