Class 2 Builder Northern Beaches | Strata Renovation Specialists

A stylish renovation, with a classic coastal aesthetic, completely transforms an older-style strata apartment in Freshwater.

Set within a solid circa 1950s apartment building overlooking Queenscliff Beach, this renovation was all about unlocking the views, improving livability, and future-proofing the apartment’s value with thoughtful, high-quality design.

The owner, a professional living alone, had only recently purchased the property and was keen to make it his own. The client was closely involved in selecting materials and finishes, resulting in a renovation that felt personal and purposeful.

What followed was a carefully planned renovation that significantly improved the apartment’s livability and long-term value. The removal of an internal wall was made possible through our Class 2 building licence, which qualifies our team to safely and legally undertake this type of structural work in strata buildings.

Class 2 building works for strata compliance.

Structural alterations within strata buildings are regulated works in NSW and must be carried out by a licensed Class 2 builder. Any renovation that affects structural elements, including the removal of internal walls, requires formal assessment and certification by a qualified structural engineer to ensure the ongoing integrity of the building.

The removal of the kitchen wall in this Northern Beaches apartment fell under the category of Class 2 building works. Our fully licensed and highly experienced team managed the entire process, coordinating engineering reports, supplying all required licences, and completing the works in full compliance with strata, building, and regulatory requirements.

As a Class 2 licensed building company, we are authorised to:

Undertake structural alterations within strata properties
Coordinate and implement engineer-approved structural changes
Manage licensed trades in accordance with Class 2 regulations
Carry out all building and renovation works safely and legally within occupied strata buildings

This level of expertise is essential for apartment renovations, providing confidence to owners, strata managers, and engineers that all works are completed correctly, compliantly, and with minimal disruption.

Explanation: Under the National Construction Code (NCC), Class 2 buildings are defined as multi-residential buildings such as apartments and units, where multiple dwellings are located above or beside each other. In NSW, building work on Class 2 buildings must be carried out by a properly licensed builder in accordance with state regulations.

A kitchen renovation designed around the view.

The original kitchen was small and enclosed. A wall completely separated it from the living and dining area. Most importantly, it blocked the view.

By removing the internal kitchen wall, we were able to increase its size, create an open plan living area and create a direct visual connection to the ocean through the sliding doors. From the kitchen, the view now extends straight out to the beach, completely transforming the kitchen. We even introduced a smoked mirrored splashback to amplify the view and reflect light.

A timeless approach to kitchen design.

Working closely with the client, we curated a kitchen design that struck a balance between coastal-inspired lightness and a grounded aesthetic.

Kitchen design features

Dulux Beige Royal 1/4 Shaker cabinetry without decorative flourishes
Antique brass bar handles that add warmth and weight
A natural Emerald green quartzite benchtop with subtle green undertones, fine in detail but visually bold
Stainless steel appliances, including a large oven, fridge, wine fridge, and dishwasher

The colour palette created a timeless foundation. If the owner decides to sell, simple updates like changing the handles and tapware could easily shift the look for a different buyer. This is something we always consider and discuss with the client during the design phase.

Smart lighting and functional details.

Lighting was a major focus throughout the kitchen and apartment.

In the kitchen, we installed new LED downlights along with LED strip lighting under the wall cabinets to clearly illuminate work surfaces while cooking. Soft ambient lighting was also incorporated for evening use, allowing the kitchen and living areas to feel connected and relaxed at night. A motorised pendant light was positioned over the breakfast bar, which can be raised or lowered depending on whether it is being used for food preparation, dining, or ambient lighting.

Clever functional details

Power points concealed under wall cabinets to keep splashbacks visually clean
Drawer storage instead of a traditional pantry, tailored to the client’s preferences
Continuation of shaker detailing under the breakfast bar for visual consistency
Sizeable breakfast bar where guests can sit and chat while meals are being prepared
Relocation of the hot water system to a hidden, yet still accessible, area under the breakfast bar

A cohesive design throughout the entire apartment

Beyond the kitchen, the renovation extended throughout the entire apartment, creating a cohesive design that ties every space together.

Flooring

New engineered American Oak flooring in a blonde oak finish replaced the original dark laminate flooring, instantly brightening the apartment and making it feel larger and more open. The flooring was carried consistently through the lounge, hallway, and living areas to maintain continuity and visual flow.

Doors

The old aluminium sliding doors were replaced with new, white powder-coated sliding doors, instantly making the apartment feel more modern. New internal doors were installed.

Fans

Bamboo ceiling fans were installed in the living area and bedrooms, complementing the new blonde oak flooring.

Lighting

New downlights were installed throughout, further lifting the brightness and functionality of the space.

Colour Palette

The walls throughout were painted in Dulux Antique White USA to create a clean, light base. The custom joinery in the kitchen and bedrooms were finished in Dulux Beige Royal quarter strength to add warmth without overpowering the palette.

Custom joinery in a timeless Hamptons-style

In the main bedroom, VJ panelling was installed across the entire wall behind the bed, creating a strong yet refined focal point. On the remaining walls, partial VJ panelling was combined with a dado rail timber moulding to introduce texture and detail while maintaining balance and restraint.

Custom wardrobes were designed with shaker-style doors to add subtle dimension, ample internal storage to keep the space visually uncluttered, antique brass handles to tie in with the kitchen, and Dulux Beige Royal quarter finish for cohesion and warmth.

The same joinery was carried through to the spare bedroom, which functions as both a home office and guest room. The same approach was applied to the linen press and hallway cabinetry, which were designed using matching door profiles and painted to blend seamlessly with the wall colour.

This thoughtful, whole-of-apartment approach to joinery, colour, and hardware ensures the renovation feels calm, considered, and cohesive from room to room.

Loving where you live.

While structural apartment renovations, like those undertake in this apartment, can involve short-term disruption, this project demonstrates how the long-term benefits far outweigh the inconvenience.

It was a pleasure working so closely with a client who had a clear vision and trusted us to bring it to life while guiding the process from a design, compliance, and construction perspective.

If you’re considering renovating your apartment, contact our friendly team for an obligation-free consultation. Our team of highly experienced trades, including Class 2 licensed builders, can handle every aspect of your renovation from design to completion.