How to Create an Amazing Home Transformation
- Debbie Anastassiou
- Sep 21, 2018
- 7 min read
Updated: Oct 7
Effective Tips for Successfully Renovating Your Home
I previously conducted a poll where the vast majority chose renovation over building new or relocating. This raised the question: Why do people favor renovation? Is it due to sentimental, practical, or financial reasons? Conducting this poll in the future would be intriguing, but for now, let's explore some practical guidelines in this article to help transform your renovation project into an incredible change!
Achieve an Amazing Transformation
What is the main goal of a renovation? Regardless of the type or scale of the project, the aim is always to achieve a stunning transformation!
Many of us are captivated by the idea of transforming spaces! We focus on the final outcome and enjoy showcasing those before and after images. It's no surprise that home renovation shows are so popular!
On the other side, there are those who avoid renovations like the 'plague' because the process overwhelms them, and they see the fear of everything going wrong as a real possibility, if not a certainty.
In reality, renovations often encounter problems, and in most cases, the root cause is inadequate planning and preparation.
So whether you're excited by the prospect of renovating or dread it, it's always wise to plan, plan, plan, and prepare thoroughly.
The secret for a successful renovation is planning.
The more effort you put into planning and preparation, the less time and money you'll spend on executing a project. Although home renovation TV shows might suggest otherwise, the planning and preparation behind the scenes can take months or even years to finish.
Don't wake up one morning and say....
A renovation can go awry without a solid plan. Don't just decide on a whim that today is the day to start! Perhaps you're inspired by a renovation show you watched on TV last night. Home improvement shows often make the process seem deceptively simple. What viewers don't see is the extensive behind-the-scenes work that occurs months before the project is broadcast. Architects, designers, builders, estimators, project managers, and many other professionals spend days, weeks, and even months on designing, planning, and sourcing before the project begins.
It's crucial to remember that the more time you dedicate to the planning and preparation phase of a project, the less time and money you'll waste during its execution. But what does planning and preparation entail?
What is involved in planning and preparation?
DEVELOP A CONCEPT
Have a clear idea in mind. If you're uncertain, you're not ready to begin. If you're struggling to decide on a direction, consult a professional. Depending on your project, schedule a meeting with a skilled interior designer or architect who can understand your needs and preferences and assist you in forming a clear opinion. A good interior designer will explain the reasoning behind their suggestions and why they will be advantageous. Their expertise and talent, combined with their professional experience and knowledge, are your best resources for establishing a clear path forward.
Hiring a professional to do the job means you are hiring their skills equipment and knowledge. Not just their time.
PREPARE A BUDGET
Once you have a concept, it's time to review your budget. Does your budget cover design and working drawings? Budgeting for a renovation involves more than just the cost of materials and finishes. You need to account for architect or designer fees, drafting fees, and potentially council permit fees depending on your project type, as well as project management fees.
Your budget will show how much of your vision you can realistically afford. While the budget determines the project's scope, it should never compromise the quality of workmanship and materials. If necessary, prioritize by addressing one area at a time, but never sacrifice quality.
Choosing the lowest price doesn't guarantee good value. "Cutting corners" will decrease your property's value and won't achieve the stunning transformation you desire!
PREPARE A DESIGN
To obtain accurate estimates from builders or tradespeople, detailed working drawings are essential. Therefore, the first step in any renovation project is to consult a professional who can guide you through the design process. Experienced interior designers can anticipate how proposed changes will impact the space's dynamics and plan accordingly to address potential challenges before they arise. Engaging an interior designer during the planning stages will be a valuable asset for your project, as it will prevent rework and additional costs during implementation, as well as avoid the disappointment of your contractor having to alter your instructions due to feasibility issues....
DEVELOP AN ACTION PLAN
With your design and budget ready, it's time to establish an action plan. Clearly define who is responsible for each task and when it should be completed before starting your project. An action plan helps you track progress and ensures a smooth transition through the various stages of the renovation. It's an effective communication tool that should be accessible to all parties involved, ensuring everyone is aligned. While everyone should follow the action plan, some flexibility is necessary to accommodate any unexpected delays. If you're feeling uncertain about the process, consider asking your interior designer about their project management services—they can handle everything for you!
PREPARE YOUR MIND
Mental preparation is essential for staying focused on your goals. Don't let the opinions of others distract you from your well-thought-out plan. If you allow well-intentioned friends or professionals to make you doubt your plans, you might lose your direction. You already have a concept, a budget, and a design; your selections are made, and you have an action plan. Trust in your expertise, preparation, and planning, and maintain control. This confidence will motivate those working on your project, leading to the best outcomes. Now that you are prepared and ready to begin your exciting home transformation, let's discuss implementation.
Implementation
Since a design is only as effective as its execution, hiring professional and reputable contractors is crucial!
For those with strong project management skills, time, and energy, overseeing the implementation can be an option. However, hiring a project manager can make the process stress-free. Project managers have established industry relationships, experience, excellent organizational skills, and a solid understanding of the building trade. They will handle orders, ensure deadlines are met, coordinate schedules, and manage timely deliveries. They oversee the work, ensuring a smooth and successful renovation process for their client. This is the ideal way to implement a renovation project, as it is completely stress-free and yields spectacular results.
Depending on the nature of the project, your Interior Designer may often act as your project manager. Being involved in both the conceptual and design stages makes your Interior Designer invested in their designs, ensuring the best possible outcome on your behalf. They will also arrange the styling and presentation of the finished product.
Details are not minor! Don't leave behind any "tell tale" signs of what used to be. The renovated space should appear brand new!
Pay attention to the details! In a transformation, details are crucial. What might seem insignificant can often undermine the entire transformation, making it less "convincing." The key to a successful transformation is that observers struggle to recognize what was there before. This means that every aspect of the renovation must be carefully considered and executed to ensure that the final result is cohesive and seamless. For instance, if you are updating a room, think about how the colors, materials, and textures interact with one another. Be meticulous and don't cut corners by leaving "that old door" or its hardware unchanged. These elements, though they may appear minor, can serve as glaring reminders of the previous state of the space and can detract from the overall effect of the transformation. Unless you're doing a historic renovation, avoid leaving any "tell-tale" signs of the past that might reveal the room's former identity. Instead, aim for a complete overhaul where the renovated space looks completely new and fresh, as if it has been entirely reimagined. Complete each area thoroughly before moving on to the next, ensuring that no detail is overlooked and that each section of the project is given the attention it deserves. By doing so, you create a cohesive environment that feels intentional and well thought out, enhancing the overall impact of the transformation.
Proper planning and budgeting with the assistance of a professional will consider all these so-called details, preventing an afterthought outcome. Engaging a professional can help you identify potential pitfalls and areas that require more attention than you might initially realize. They can assist in crafting a detailed plan that accounts for every element of the transformation, from the smallest fixtures to the larger structural changes. This comprehensive approach ensures that nothing is left to chance, and every decision made aligns with the overall vision for the space. By allocating resources wisely and prioritizing the details that matter most, you can avoid the common mistake of treating certain aspects of the renovation as mere afterthoughts. Instead, each component will be integrated into the design seamlessly, contributing to a unified and polished final look. Additionally, a professional can help you establish a realistic budget that encompasses all necessary details, reducing the likelihood of unexpected costs arising later in the process. This thorough preparation not only saves time and money but also elevates the quality of the transformation, leading to a result that is both stunning and satisfying.
Depending on the type of project, an Architect or an Interior Designer are the best people to approach when considering a renovation.
Architects focus on both the structural and aesthetic components of the entire building, ensuring that the design is not only visually appealing but also functional and safe. They take into account various factors such as the building's purpose, the surrounding environment, and the materials used in construction. This holistic approach involves a deep understanding of engineering principles, local building codes, and sustainability practices. Architects often create detailed blueprints and models, utilizing advanced software to visualize the final product. Their role extends beyond initial design; they may also oversee the construction process to ensure that the project adheres to their vision and specifications, addressing any challenges that arise along the way.
Interior Designers concentrate on all interior aspects of buildings and excel in space planning, which involves the efficient arrangement of spaces to enhance functionality and flow. They consider elements such as furniture layout, lighting, color schemes, and materials to create harmonious environments that reflect the client's style and needs. Interior designers often conduct thorough assessments of the space, identifying opportunities for improvement and innovation. They frequently manage projects or work in collaboration with your building contractor, coordinating various trades such as electricians, plumbers, and carpenters to bring their vision to life. This collaboration ensures that the design is executed properly and that the final result meets both aesthetic and practical requirements. Additionally, interior designers stay updated on the latest trends and technologies in design, incorporating these advancements into their projects to create modern, sustainable, and comfortable interiors.
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