5 Things to Consider when Planning your Renovation or Extension

Planning a renovation or extension? Excited to get started? Read these 5 things you need to consider before starting...

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So, you've decided to renovate your property or go for an extension. Exciting! This is your chance to create a space which suits your lifestyle, now and in the future, and develop a space you can be proud of and enjoy for years to come.

However, renovating and extending is not for the faint hearted, and there are a lot of moving parts to consider and keep track of. Therefore, it is vital to plan ahead and consider these 5 things before you get started.

1. Purpose

What is the purpose of your renovation or extension? Have you purchased a doer-upper? Is it time to create more space for your growing family? Or are you hoping to add value to your home? Whatever your reasons, it's important to plan with purpose in mind.

Think about every aspect of the space, how you will use it, how your lifestyle may impact it, and where you see yourself in 5 and 10 years time. Is the plan for this space to grow with you? Or do you intend on selling it in the next few years?

Keeping this purpose and goal in mind, will help you make informed decisions about the renovation.

2. Layout

Considering the purpose of your project, you now need to consider the layout. If you are extending, are you getting the most out of the space? Are you creating a layout that maximises every inch of your property?

It's important to consider your lifestyle and everyday life. Do you need a formal dining table, perhaps if you eat out a lot, then you can consider a more causal dining setting? How space the space flow when walking through it? Considering these high-level layout options will help utilise your space. Once you have that sorted, this is also a good point to considering your electrical and lighting plans. It is much more difficult and costly to add missing plug sockets afterwards. So it's definitely worth taking the time now to consider these.

Did you know, I offer a Renovator's Virtual Design Package - this includes electrical and lighting plans, so I do all the hard work for you! Take a look here for more information.

3. Budget

The most important consideration, budget. How are you funding this and what is your budget? Have you allowed for a contingency?

Be realistic about what you can afford. Think about where you can make savings. Research everything! Try to get costs for trades, materials, fixtures and fittings. Jot it all down, ideally on a spreadsheet (who doesn't love a spreadsheet!). This will help you see where you can compromise, it's good to keep track of any rising costs.

Alongside this, also consider your timeline. This will massively impact your budget, so think about how long you plan for the work to take and be sure to add in a buffer. Be aware that price of materials will change. So if your project will take more than 3 months, factor in the possibility of cost of materials rising.

4. Professionals and Trades

Who do you need to help you realise your project? Most people assume they need an Architect when planning an extension. This isn't always the case. So do some research to determine who will be best to help and support your project.

When looking for trades, I have a great blog post full of tips and tricks on finding trades and getting quotes. You can read about this here.

5. Expectations

Having realistic expectations about your project is key to helping you avoid renovation fatigue. You will likely experience delays during your project, or unexpected situations that need addressing. And if your renovation is a long-term project, the fatigue can hit hard.

Try to stay positive, one day you will look back at this time and forget how hard it was. I know this from experience! And it will be worth it. Your planning and preparation will not go to waste and you will get your dream space!

Now you've considered these 5 things, you're on your way to starting a successful and rewarding project.

However, if you still feel overwhelmed, or have other renovation questions you need answering, then I'm here to help. My design consultations are prefect for chatting over your plans, or my virtual design packages are great for developing your concept and keeping you on track when it comes to the exciting part - decorating! Or if you just want to take the stress out of it all, the I also offer full service design. You can find out more about my services here.

And, read more here about why having an Interior Designer join your project early on is so beneficial.

Kerry x

How can working with an Interior Designer at Hinton House Interiors help?

Still struggling with design decisions? Maybe, you just need a quick room refresh? Or, perhaps you just don't have the time to take it all on?

Hinton House Interiors is here to help. We offer a full design service, including design project management, design and colour consultations and virtual e-design, all services can be found here.

Drop me a message, I'd love to help.

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Residential Interior Designer based in #Southampton, #Hampshire, also covering the UK.