Known for their standout renovation on The Block NZ 2014, Alex and Corban’s latest project reimagines their six-bedroom beach house in Whananaki, Northland. Designed as both a personal retreat and an Airbnb rental, the renovation needed to balance durability with timeless design, making Laminex’s Melteca and Laminam central to their material choices.
In 2012, the couple relocated the Ponsonby Road Mini Garage and reassembled its container-style structure into a single-storey home on the stunning Whananaki Estuary. "The original budget fit-out was wearing out," says Alex, "and we always planned to take the design to the next level. This renovation is designed to stand the test of time and grow with us into the future."
Melteca woodgrain designs bring a natural textured surface
"I love working with Laminex products," says Alex. "Melteca is incredibly durable—no chipping or oil stains. The extensive range of colours and textures has allowed us to develop a cohesive design and colour story throughout the house."
For the kitchen, they chose the warm Melteca Parisian Oak in the Organic finish, complemented by Melteca Moccasin for hallway cabinetry and Parisian Oak bedroom plinths. "Parisian Oak is the closest match to real timber I’ve seen, with a depth of texture that feels like true woodgrain." Using Melteca for the carcase ensures a consistent wood grain finish inside and out—allowing the texture to be appreciated even when pantry and cupboard doors are open.
The Melteca Parisian Oak also pairs beautifully with the solid French Oak sarking detail in the interior. In contrast, the rich, deep beige of Melteca Moccasin adds subtle depth to the palette. "Moccasin complements all the timber so well and really lifts the space."
Melteca provided design continuity throughout the beach house. Easy to clean, UV-stable indoors, stain-resistant and scuff-resistant, Melteca woodgrain outperforms veneer in high-use areas like kitchens.
Laminam Supernova – a practical and stylish benchtop
For the kitchen island, Alex chose Laminam Supernova Luna White, a durable, heat-resistant porcelain surface. With its sleek aesthetic, the porcelain elevates food presentation – a major social focus during holidays.
"It’s a solid surface that handles heat, which is ideal for Airbnb guests who might not be as careful. The 12mm slim profile looks very elegant, and because Laminam comes in extra-large sheets, we could cover the 3.8-metre island with fewer joins. The soft off-white contrasts beautifully with Parisian Oak."
The kitchen palette is completed with a cream-coloured splashback, bronze pull handles, and a dark-stained batten ceiling – a striking yet harmonious combination.
Featured in the April issue of Homestyle magazine, the renovation’s style is undeniable – but longevity was just as important. "The incredible durability of Laminex products is key. When a space is in constant use, surfaces need to withstand wear and tear while still looking beautiful."
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PROJECT CREDITS
Interior Design: Alex Walls
Photographer: Sophie Bayly
Writer: Folio
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