The Old Manse

Aug 23

Built in 1876 as the manse for Martinborough’s Presbyterian church, this much-loved home has served many lives. Once a minister’s family home and later a bed and breakfast, it has now become a permanent family home again.

The clients wanted to modernise the house and bring warmth back into its rooms while preserving nearly 150 years of character. What began as a renovation grew into a full restoration, with care given to every detail and the way each new element sat alongside the original architecture.

Interior designer Penelope Jones of Hue Design + Interiors developed the kitchen and bathroom joinery, lighting, hardware and finishes in collaboration with the clients. Working from her designs, Carrolls made the kitchen, laundry, ensuite vanity, main bathroom vanity, bookcases and mudroom storage, as well as timber windows and doors throughout the home.

At the heart of the kitchen is an island made from walnut-stained solid oak and veneer, topped with Alpinus granite. Its grey veining and translucent aqua-green highlights were said to resemble bird feathers. Painted shaker cabinetry, warm metal hardware and a plaster-finished rangehood surround bring depth and character while remaining sympathetic to the age of the house.

Behind the classic cabinetry are details shaped around everyday life. Pocket doors conceal a bar within what appears to be a kitchen cupboard. A low pull-out drawer holds bowls for the owners’ dogs, while a dedicated niche keeps the KitchenAid mixer accessible but out of the way.

Throughout the restoration, new craftsmanship sits comfortably beside what was already there. An original corbel was deliberately retained among the newly made ones, and an existing fireplace mantel was refinished and resized. The result is a warm, personal home that respects its history while making room for modern family life.