Drinkrow Homes | Tanner Street, Havelock North

This high-end renovation and extension in Havelock North reimagined a 1950s home into a warm, contemporary retreat that celebrates premium craftsmanship and detail. Drinkrow Homes, a leading custom home builder in Hawke’s Bay, completely stripped the original dwelling back to its framework before rebuilding with high-quality materials, including extensive cedar finishes throughout. The transformation continued outdoors, where expansive multi-living areas were designed to connect seamlessly with the home’s interior — creating a beautiful, functional space perfectly suited to Hawke’s Bay’s relaxed lifestyle.

Client:

Tony & Jo

Location:

Havelock North

Architect:

Design Group Stapelton Elliott

Year Completed:

2020

Challenges

Working with an older 1950s home brought its share ofcomplexities. As the renovation and extension progressed, it became clear thatelements of the original structure required reworking to meet modern standards.The architectural plans also needed to evolve on site to accommodate existingconditions and improve flow between old and new spaces.

Solutions

To achieve a seamless blend between old and new, Drinkrow Homes worked closely with the architect and clients to refine the design and build details as the project evolved. On-site adjustments were handled with precision, ensuring every alteration complemented the existing structure while meeting modern standards. Our team’s strong communication, forward planning, and attention to detail allowed us to adapt quickly, maintain quality, and deliver the architectural renovation in Havelock North to the highest standard— a testament to our collaborative approach and trusted construction systems.

Outcome

The finished result is a beautifully executed architectural renovation and extension in Havelock North, where the character of the original1950s home meets refined modern living. The extensive use of cedar detailing, premium materials, and cohesive design creates a warm, timeless aesthetic that feels both luxurious and inviting. Expansive outdoor living areas now connect effortlessly with the home’s interior, enhancing light, flow, and functionality. This transformation showcases Drinkrow Homes’ commitment to craftsmanship, organisation, and the art of high-quality design and build across Hawke’s Bay.

Jesse, as a builder built our first new home in Havelock North almost 10 years ago. He was always friendly, personable and clearly demonstrated an acute knowledge and ability within the building industry. About 4 years ago my wife and I wanted to build a pergola, not a big job but we wanted it done right. I approached Jesse as he now had his own company. He worked with us to build the pergola. He demonstrated excellent building knowledge. I was so impressed when he hand sawed 5 cuts on big timber at difficult angles whilst balanced on top of a ladder... and each cut was perfect. This year we took on an architecturally designed major renovation of a dwelling (over $500,000 spent). Jesse was our first and only choice and he never let us down. He has a great team behind him, including his wife Michelle, who manages administrative matters. Jesse also has excellent working relationships with a great team of electricians, plasterers, roofers etc that allowed for a near seamless process in a timely manner. Jesse has a real eye for what will work. He can adapt a build as needed with innovative solutions to issues that inevitably arise. Everything he does is executed to perfection for a classy finish. Jesse doesn’t just build, he owns a project and makes it work. Jesse’s strongest attribute is that over and above his excellent workmanship is that he demonstrates absolute integrity and honesty. When you commence a significant building project this is the most important thing. Jesse and his team never let us down.

Tony & Jo