Retirees Transform Auckland Cottage into Charming Coastal Retreat

In a vibrant row of 1880s workers’ cottages in Devonport, Auckland, Robyn and Dave George have transformed their home into a delightful retreat that draws the attention of passersby. The couple’s renovation of their cottage features a standout blush pink door, a symbol of their creative spirit and a conversation starter among locals.

The decision to move to Devonport was influenced by various factors, including the area’s stunning beaches, walking trails, and a lively arts scene. For Robyn, this move was particularly meaningful as she is the fourth generation of her family to reside in the suburb. However, the most significant motivation was Dave’s health; he had been diagnosed with stage four melanoma and wanted to be closer to family. Fortunately, with the aid of the immunotherapy drug Keytruda, he is now in complete remission.

Before relocating, the couple lived in Opua in the Bay of Islands. During a nostalgic drive through Devonport, they stumbled upon a for-sale sign for their current cottage, which had been owned by a single individual for an impressive 70 years. Homes in this street rarely come up for sale, averaging only once every 17 years. This fortunate discovery led them to embrace the home’s historical charm while also addressing their need for more space.

The Georges enlisted the expertise of Natalie Todd from Northland’s Absolute Build to design an airy new living, kitchen, and dining area. The couple fondly recalls Todd’s playful nicknames for the new windows, such as the “yelling at Dave in the workshop window.”

Dave, a semi-retired organizational psychologist, has taken up furniture-making, creating “solid, honest pieces” that provide him joy and connect him with the community. His workshop has become a gathering spot for locals and curious tourists alike, who often mistake it for a store. Robyn, an accomplished artist who completed a Master of Fine Art in her 50s, played a pivotal role in selecting the home’s soft color palette.

A green tile inspired Robyn’s design choices. After discovering a Victorian-style tile locally that was only available in white, she pursued the supplier and successfully arranged for a shipment of her desired green tiles from Spain. For the exterior, the couple chose a soft green hue known as Resene Half Robin Egg Blue, which complements the neighborhood while standing out from the standard greys and whites.

Selecting a color for the front door posed a challenge. Robyn initially hesitated at the suggestion of pink, but after testing numerous shades, she settled on Resene Beauty Bush, a warm hue that adds character to the cottage. The couple takes pride in the thoughtful details throughout the renovation, including replicated heritage features that align with the home’s original architecture.

Robyn emphasizes the importance of designing their home to suit their lifestyle. They opted for a spacious kitchen rather than a smaller version, creating a gathering space for family and friends, particularly their grandchildren. The couple’s willingness to embrace creativity extends to their playful decisions, such as when Dave painted one fence picket pink as a light-hearted joke, which Robyn found appealing.

The couple shared insights into their renovation journey, highlighting some of their favorite features and lessons learned. They emphasized the value of retaining high ceilings to create an open feel and expressed their gratitude for the custom-made screen on their front door. Dave noted a minor regret regarding their decision to convert a second toilet into a laundry, suggesting they might reconsider that choice if given the chance.

The cottage’s location in a designated flood zone presented challenges during the renovation, requiring it to be lifted and repositioned. The project involved installing 90 piles, new bearers, and joists to elevate the home by about a meter. Dave described the process as fascinating to observe.

The couple credits their foreman, Paul Brotherson of Trueline Construction, for his exceptional management of the project. Robyn appreciated his communication and rapport with the neighbors, which fostered a supportive community atmosphere.

Robyn also cherishes the opportunity to walk along the same paths her mother and grandmother enjoyed, particularly at Cheltenham Beach. The couple’s home is not only a testament to their resilience and creativity but also a vibrant part of the Devonport community, where history and modern living beautifully intertwine.