Renovating your home is an exciting journey, but it can be overwhelming if you’re not sure where to start. From understanding what you want to achieve to choosing the right professionals, each step in the process can make a big difference in the final result. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to kick-start your renovation journey and set your project up for success.
1. Define Your Goals for the Renovation
Before diving into the details, it’s important to clearly define what you hope to achieve with the renovation. Are you looking to add more space, modernise an outdated layout, improve functionality, or increase the property’s value?
Consider your lifestyle needs and how long you plan to stay in the home. If you’re planning for a long-term stay, you may want to make more personalised choices that reflect your preferences. If the renovation is to increase market appeal, focus on design elements that enhance functionality and create broad appeal. Being clear on your goals will guide the design process and help you make informed decisions along the way.
2. Establish Your Budget and Timeline
Setting a budget and timeline early on helps keep your renovation smooth and enjoyable. Consider estimating a few key costs, like design fees, approval costs, construction, and temporary accommodation so you have a general idea of what’s involved. You might find that an initial consultation with a designer or builder can give you a clearer view of what’s achievable within your budget and timeframe, and help you feel confident moving forward.
Remember that flexibility is key. Renovations, especially in older homes, can uncover hidden issues, and having some wiggle room in your budget can help prevent unexpected stress. Similarly, timelines may need to adjust based on site conditions, weather, or material availability, so it’s beneficial to build in extra time to accommodate these potential delays.
Learn more about costs to expect in our other blog post here.
3. Assess the Existing Structure and Site
Taking a look at your home’s current layout and structure is a great starting point to understand your renovation options. Simple things like checking room layouts or considering natural light flow can highlight opportunities for improvement. For older homes, you might identify a few areas that could use updating—like wiring or insulation—to make your renovation even more valuable. By understanding your starting point, you can make informed decisions about what you want to keep and what needs to be reworked to create your ideal home.
4. Research and Gather Design Inspiration
Gathering design inspiration is a fun part of the renovation process, and it helps you clarify your vision. Use resources like Pinterest, Houzz, and Instagram to explore different styles, layouts, and materials that appeal to you. Creating a mood board with your favourite ideas can make it easier to communicate your vision to your designer.
While aesthetics are important, also consider practical design elements. For example, if you live in Sydney, think about climate-specific features, like materials that withstand humidity and sun exposure. Focus on creating a design that’s not only beautiful but also functional for your lifestyle.
5. Choose Your Approach – DIY or Professional Help
Next, decide whether you’ll handle aspects of the project yourself or engage professionals for a more comprehensive service. Small updates or cosmetic changes may be manageable on your own, but larger renovations typically require expert help.
There are various professionals who can support you:
- Building Designers: Provide detailed designs and documentation, often at a more affordable rate than architects.
- Draftspersons: Ideal for smaller or simpler projects where minimal design work is needed.
- Interior Designers: Focus on aesthetics, finishes, and functionality within the home. Generally engaged in conjunction with a building designer or draftsperson if layout changes are involved as they don’t deal with much of the architectural and compliance side.
Banksia Building Design can assist with end-to-end renovation planning and design, offering a balance of quality and affordability for personalised projects. Learn about the difference between a draftsperson, building designer and architect here.
6. Engage the Right Professionals
Choosing the right professionals is critical to a smooth renovation process. Look for designers, builders, or contractors who have experience with your type of project, understand local council requirements, and can work within your budget and timeline.
When interviewing professionals, ask questions about their experience, typical project timelines, and fee structure. Partnering with a reliable, experienced team will make it easier to navigate the complexities of design, documentation, and construction.
7. Explore Approval Requirements (DA vs. CDC)
Depending on the scope of your renovation, you may need council approval. In NSW, most projects go through one of two pathways: a Development Application (DA) or a Complying Development Certificate (CDC).
- A DA is generally needed for larger or more complex projects, including those on heritage-listed properties.
- A CDC is a faster option for straightforward projects that meet strict requirements.
Not all renovations require approval, but understanding the requirements early on helps you avoid delays. An experienced designer can help determine if you need approval and guide you through the process.
Learn more about the difference between a DA and a CDC in our other blog post here.
8. Refine the Design and Finalise the Layout
As your project moves closer to construction, this is the perfect time to work with your designer to refine the details of your layout and design. Since you’re modifying an existing home, you’ll have valuable insights into intricate details, like which neighbours are noisy, which rooms overheat, and which spaces could use more natural light. Sharing these details with your designer will help them shape a design that truly enhances comfort and functionality.
Your designer will guide you through this process, helping you finalise finishes, layout, and key structural elements to ensure everything aligns with your vision. This collaborative approach ensures a well-thought-out plan that minimises the need for changes during construction, keeping your project on track and stress-free.
9. Plan for Construction and Living Arrangements
The construction phase can be disruptive, so it’s important to plan ahead. For small projects it may be feasible to remain living in part of the home. For larger projects or if your renovation involves major structural work, consider making temporary living arrangements.
Understand the general timeline for construction and what to expect, including noise, dust, and daily site activity. Regular communication with your builder or contractor can help keep the project on track and address any questions as they arise.
Conclusion
Starting a renovation is both exciting and challenging. By following these steps, from defining your goals and budget to choosing the right professionals, you’ll set your project up for a successful outcome. Taking time to plan thoroughly will not only make the process smoother but also help you avoid costly mistakes.
Banksia Building Design is here to support you at every stage, from initial design ideas to final documentation and council approval. Reach out today to see how we can help bring your renovation vision to life with expert, personalised guidance.
