9 tips for where to start with your renovation project
If you’re thinking about remodelling, renovating or even just a bit of DIY with some expert assistance - it can be quite confusing to find a ‘way in’. I’ve been there myself too.
Here are a few of my easy to follow tips for where to start.
1. Go with what you love.
Follow your gut. Everyone is different, and you’ll get every opinion under the sun. Ultimately though there are no absolute rules in design and it is your home - if you find that perfect Facebook Marketplace or Etsy buy, design around it!.
As long as you and those that you share it with love it, it’s allowed!
2. Solve your own problems!
Dirty dog? Nowhere for your many, many shoes? Need to store your fly fishing kit? Want to display your stamp collection? Does no-one wash up? Are you a passionate musician or podcaster?
Work out what would make the biggest difference to you and start there. Don’t let anyone talk you into the generic! If a design is personal to you, it won’t go out of fashion.
3. Get References.
So many people that I speak to who have had a project go wrong just relied on a website or an off-hand recommendation from an acquaintance.
How thorough you are with references should be relative to the value and importance of the work you are doing - but always do more than take someone’s word for it!
Try to see comparable work in person if you can, or speak to similar past clients on the phone (people tend to be more open and honest than by email). The key here is similar…always do your best to compare apples with apples.
4. Review the whole house.
Just have a think about whether you really need to extend? Is there a more urgent problem that would benefit from your attention first?
I’m a firm believer that many problems can be solved with some clever internal remodelling (or sometimes just alternative furniture arrangements) rather than extending. I had a client recently who felt their living space was just a corridor - it had three doors on different walls and no focal point. When we looked at the space, we rearranged the furniture, gave it a ‘purpose’ and agreed that the route to one of the doors didn’t have to be as obvious because it led to a home office. With that decided it was possible to make the room feel cosy and welcoming.
Think of the whole to ensure a cohesive scheme that flows well. This will also help you prioritise your budget and time.
5. Stand your ground.
Everyone has an opinion and if you're someone who is easily swayed, curate who you ask for advice or invite to comment. If Aunt Nora has terrible taste but strong opinions, don't let her negativity throw you off course!
Be strong, know what you want and why you’re doing it and you’ll succeed.
6. Ask the stupid questions.
Personally and professionally I live by this rule.
You're not expected to be an expert in everything -and you don't need to be. But you do need to know what you're getting and on what terms. So be brave and ask away!
7. Have a plan!
The best way to stay on top of your budget, quality and timescales is to know what you're shooting for -and how. Things change, but if you know what's important you'll be able to adapt without compromising on what really matters.
There are great resources out there to help you online, also check out our project planner and budget planner here if you’re a spreadsheet geek like me.
If what you feel like you’re missing is a design buddy to bounce ideas off and help keep you on the right tracks then I do that too! Have a look at my affordable DIY support services here.
