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I've lost count of the amount of home extensions, loft conversions, renovations and home remodels I have designed. During this time I have seen, heard and learnt a lot when it comes to home projects. But the biggest lesson I can pass on to you is that any home transformation should be set on some key foundations. These can really set your project up for a much more successful ending.
The first and foremost thing I would say is your mindset. I say this from experience. There will be moments when you want the builders out of there so you can relax and enjoy your home. Patience is a virtue here and have the end goal in mind. It will keep you going. Mindset is also important when unexpected issues arise. Remain calm and work with whoever is involved with your project (be it the designer, consultant, builder or trader) to find a solution.
Your project is going to require a substantial investment from you. And no I don’t just mean monetary investment. I’m talking about time, energy and emotional investments.
When starting a project, think about why you are doing it and what do you actually want to get out of your project.
Research and decide on a route from early on and STICK WITH IT! Chopping and changing is going to cost you more time, money and most likely unnecessary extra stress.
Know who you need for your project. Which professionals will be important to your project? Be prepared for unknowns too as things can always crop up and it's out of your hands. (I’m not trying to scare you, just a note to be prepared)
I’m going to go back to investing but slightly more focused now. While I appreciate many would like to DIY their projects, investing in certain areas like professionals could create savings for you.
Hire the right professionals for you and your project. If you do need to hire any professionals like a designer then get to know them beforehand. Ensure they are the right fit for you. They should also be ensuring you and your project are suited for their services too.
“Measure twice, cut once”. I live by this when designing a project. Planning planning planning is key. Its easy to knock a wall out and rebuild it in the same place on a bit of paper. Imagine if you are part way through your build and this happened for real. What would it cost you?
Ensure you have planned every detail of your project in order to get a realistic quotation. Not only do you know where you stand but it saves any contractor making estimated decisions on these unspecified aspects. Hiring a professional to carry out the detailed design for you will set your project on an easier road than not having those plans. I’ve seen it first hand that it's more headache all round by not having them.
Budget planning and tracking your spending.
Think about how your home will adapt as your life changes. Be it; you're starting out your married life, starting a family, growing your family (kids and pets) and the various stages of life.
I can’t say this enough; plan plan plan. Making it up or working it out as you go will become more costly and can have ramifications on what space you end up with.
I hope the above tips has given you some fundamentals to consider when starting a home project. It can feel overwhelming, confusing and a bit like a maze when you are researching and seeking answers for your particular project. There are many forms of finding the information you require. If you need some guidance specifically for your project then reach out by sending me a message or booking a call with me.