Diving into a home renovation can feel like a rollercoaster ride, with plenty of ups, downs and surprise turns along the way. But it’s always worth it! It’s the perfect opportunity to add a touch of your personality to every corner of your home.
Whether you’re knocking down walls to create more open space, or adding a splash of paint to make them pop, it’s always exciting. From planning to execution, these top 5 tips will give you the essential know-how to steer your home renovation to success. Get ready to roll up your sleeves, unleash your creativity, and transform your home!
Table of Contents
1. Prioritising your renovation needs
When diving into home renovations, it’s easy to get swept away by the endless possibilities. But before you start dreaming about paint colours and tile patterns, start with the basics.
Floors and walls determine your home’s look and structure. Choose whether you want to knock down any walls to create space, and check the existing walls and floors for any damage or wear that needs fixing. If you need to replace your floors, consider installing durable home flooring that lasts.
Now it’s time to think about the changes that will have the biggest impact on your daily life. Is it updating that cramped kitchen? Or maybe it’s fixing the bathroom that’s been bothering you? List out your needs versus your wants, and tackle the needs first. This way, you’ll be able to focus on what’s most important.
2. Dream big but plan smart
Having a grand vision for your home renovation is exciting, after all, that’s why you’re doing this! But it’s just as important to ground your dreams in reality through smart planning. To start, create a mood board or a vision board, using apps, magazine cutouts, or websites to pull together elements like colours, textures and layouts that catch your eye. Once you know the look you want to achieve, it’s time to work backwards to set a realistic timeline and budget that will help you get there.
Establishing a realistic budget
Setting a realistic budget can mean the difference between a finished project and getting stuck halfway through with no funds left. It’s important to account for not only the obvious costs like materials and labour but also unexpected expenses that can crop up along the way.
Knowing where to save and where to splurge can also make a big difference. For example, you might choose less expensive options for paint or decor, which can easily be changed. However, investing in high-quality flooring means less maintenance in the long run, and a beautiful foundation that will last. Look for durable options such as Hybrid styles that can withstand the wear and tear of everyday life.
3. Choose the right professionals
A skilled and reliable team of professionals can turn your vision into reality, so make sure you put plenty of thought into your decision. After all, the wrong choice could lead to costly delays and frustrations.
Start by checking the qualifications and licensing of any professionals you consider hiring. Look for a good track record, great reviews and experience in the type of renovation you’re planning. Don’t settle for the first contractor quote you receive. Getting multiple estimates can give you a better sense of what the going rates are and might even provide room for negotiation.
4. Expect the unexpected and stay flexible
It’s common for renovation projects to come with surprises and setbacks, no matter how well you plan. Preparing for the unexpected and staying flexible can help you work through these challenges without letting stress take over.
When something crops up, take a deep breath and approach it as a problem to be solved rather than a disaster. It’s amazing how creative you can be when things go wrong. For example, imagine discovering that the wall you planned to remove for an open-plan kitchen and living area is load-bearing, meaning costly reinforcements. A creative solution could be to install a series of large, arching openings in the wall. This not only solves the problem but adds to the design with a stylish and functional element.
Remember, a bit of chaos is part of the charm of renovating. Each unexpected twist is an opportunity for creativity, often leading to results that are even better than what you initially planned.
5. Embrace sustainability
It’s no secret that eco-friendly renovations are the way forward. And for good reason! It’s not just good for the planet, but can also be good for your wallet too.
Try adding a few of these:
- Energy-efficient appliances that consume less energy and also reduce your utility bills.
- Recycled materials for countertops, flooring, or even insulation that helps reduce your environmental footprint while adding character to your home.
- Using low-VOC paints and installing proper insulation and windows that improve the indoor air quality of your home and help maintain a comfortable temperature.
As your renovation comes to life, take a moment to celebrate the big step you’ve taken in transforming your home. Celebrate by sharing your space and showing off all you have achieved! Hosting a gathering is a great way to enjoy the moment with friends and family and experience the joy your revamped home brings. Renovating can be tough, but seeing your vision realised makes it all worthwhile. Enjoy your new space—you’ve earned it.
