Renovation projects can be rollercoaster events. It is an exciting journey, but it is one that can be full of surprises along the way. While it would be great to be able to fast-forward to the end of your renovation project to enjoy your new home, you will enjoy it even more knowing the hard work put into it.
Although there is no way to gaze into the future to see the results, we can offer some advice to help you start your renovation journey.
Never hesitate to ask for advice
To get your home perfect, you will be confronted with many decisions you will have to make. While your budget may not stretch to include an interior designer to help select the perfect wallpaper, that doesn’t mean there is nowhere else you can go for help.
When you visit any homeware or building supply store, they will have an expert who can share with you what is popular and give you some ideas at no cost. While it is not a formal plan, they are able to guide you on what is available as well as what has been popular in store.
To get advice on what will and won’t work, it is worth finding a tradie to get an honest opinion. Whether it is a specific shower head, or a type of laminate you want to install, these guys know these products well and will know whether it will be practical or not, so it is worth listening to their advice.
For inspiration, mood boards are a fantastic starting place. This is a way to gather all the things you like and put all of that inspiration in one place. Friends and family will also be able to have a look at your ideas but prepare yourself for lots of different opinions.
Stick to your budget
A reality check may be needed before setting out on your renovation project to know just how much you can achieve on your budget. You do not want to start your project with champagne tastes but a beer budget.
The good news is it is possible to swap expensive finishes for something similar but less pricey. The trick is to make it not look obvious. For instance, quartz or granite can be an ideal replacement for marble.
If it is possible, try and skip the cheap bench option in your kitchen, as that is a key feature. But make sure that decision doesn’t mean you have to blow the budget. Wooden bench tops can age well. But if you have to pick a laminate, one with a matte finish will add a little more sophistication. Better yet, add a timber edge to your laminate bench to get the best of both worlds.
Just like costs, picking out the right kitchen bench could blow out, it is important that you identify where you can save, and where you can add yourself a little extra leeway if you go over.
Some budget-saving tips include using open, basic shelving rather than getting a customised wardrobe or pantry installed. Try steam-cleaning old carpet to see if it needs replacing before ripping it up. While floor-to-ceiling bathroom tiles is favourable, it is more of an aesthetic choice than functional.
Start with small reno projects
Avoid putting a sledgehammer through the wall in every room, and take some time to assess whether you really need to undertake a big project, or if a fresh coat of paint and some new floor stain will be enough to rejuvenate the space.
Sample pots of paint are a good way to help decide which colour you want on your walls. Instead of relying on the small square samples, paint a regular piece of paper with the name of the colour on the corner. You can then tape your samples to the wall to help figure out which works best. This option also allows you to see how the paint colours look in different lightening and against other colours in your home.
Mixing in textures and material is a way to add a little personality to your interiors. Antiques are a fabulous way to bring out the charm and character of your home. Upcycling is also a thrifting option for first-time renovators.
Lighting matters
It is typical for renovators to focus on what to put in their newly created space that they overlook creating the right mood with lighting.
While money might be tight, and if you already have an electrician doing work, it could be wise to get them to add some additional cabling to make it easier to add a feature light or wall TV when the time is right.
Lamp shades are an inexpensive way to brighten up a space, and even better, they don’t require an electrician. Lamps can make any poorly lit place feel warm.
And resist using downlights, fluros and predictable pendants in the kitchen. Instead, invest in something unexpected, like a basket or an antique fitting to add some personality.
Keep your end goal in sight
Your renovation is likely to turn your life upside down for a while. If you decide to stay at home while the work is being completed, it will undoubtedly be chaotic and messy.
The amount of dust will seem endless, and while the renovation is happening, it will seem you can never get on top of it. It is important to consider how living in a home that is being renovated affects you, your spouse, your kids, and your work life. So you want to make sure it gets done right first time, and that will save you from going back and spending more money.
While it may not be pleasant to stay in your home while doing work on it, the upside is it saves money. It is important to not be too precious about your home during this time.
There is a chance you will have a few tradies walking through the house, leaving footprints everywhere. If you don’t want to relocate, it’s best to just ignore it and clean up afterwards.
With these tips in mind, as well as the most common mistakes to avoid, you should be ready to tackle a renovation with gusto. Start looking for your inspirations, create your mood board and set yourself some plans – including a budget. Before you know it, you’ll be living in your dream home.
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