Little Hayes House | Restored Character with Calm
A Character Home with a Heartbeat
Tucked into a peaceful Hamilton neighbourhood, just a short stroll from Wellington Street Beach and the much-loved Hayes Common café, Little Hayes House is a personal project — lovingly restored by Architectural Designer Sharon Robinson, founder of Smart Living Spaces.
This home celebrates its 1940s heritage while embracing the calm and connection of modern living. Walking and cycling routes link to the Hamilton Gardens, Claudelands Event Centre, and the CBD via the stunning river path — creating a uniquely urban-but-nature-connected lifestyle.
A Restoration Rooted in Warmth and Simplicity
Sharon carefully preserved and restored the home’s existing character, including original timber windows and newly oiled native timber floors. Feature walls were crafted using recycled timber salvaged from the original structure — bringing layers of memory into every space.
The bathroom has been modernised while still honouring the original charm. In the heart of the home, the kitchen and living areas were opened up into a single flowing space, with French doors on both sides inviting light and life in from the gardens.
Old Bones, New Soul
The open fireplace was replaced with an efficient insert wood burner, offering modern warmth in a timeless setting. Natural materials and finishes connect the interior with the peaceful garden spaces outside, creating a home that feels grounded, honest, and human-scaled.
Indoor-Outdoor Living, Naturally
The sunny front deck offers an ideal afternoon retreat, while the private back garden provides quiet spaces for relaxing — a grassy spot for sun lounging or a hammock under the cones aster tree. A paved patio is tucked into the planting, perfect for alfresco breakfasts or casual evening meals.
Native planting surrounds the home, and the fully fenced section includes a gate and secure off-street parking — completing this little sanctuary in the city
What to see more of the Little Hayes House and learn of Sharons journey?
