In the midst of improving your home? We speak to renovators who have been there, done that, got the dusty T-shirt – and ask them what project advice they would pass on to others looking to do the same…
Social media is the hotspot for gathering inspiration for your project (why not check us out over on @kbbmagazine while you’re there), and we love watching the progress unfold, from bare bricks to final tours. So if you, too, are in the middle of a renovation, who better to receive tips and tricks from than other real-life homeowners?
From deciding on the type of glazing you want, making the most of what you already have, to enjoying the in-between stages, we’ve asked six renovators to share their words of advice…
1. @byamberhopkins
One thing I’d recommend thinking about in the early stages of designing your home is the type of glazing you want to have – how often would you have back doors fully open, given our British climate?
We’ve found having a window seat has still gained us extra light and provided lovely views out onto greenery, but also a usable social seating space for all seasons. Plus, it could have been extra storage under the window seat had we opted for a fitted window rather than a floating oriel. Just food for thought, before jumping straight to the conventional full-width glass doors often featured in house extensions.
2. @thatcotswoldclaire
My advice would be to invest in the fabric of the building itself. Even though it’s not as exciting as designing your interiors, prioritise spending money on well-insulated walls and airtightness, then move onto the fittings that can’t be easily changed in the future, such as good-quality flooring. When the funds inevitably run low, you want to know you have the core of your home up and running so you can focus on adding everything else as and when money allows.
3. @myhomechronicles_
Don’t rush the in-between stages, they are where the real magic happens. There is so much to learn as you go, so trust your gut and take your time with the decision process. Renovating a house into my home was made special by truly recognising the moments of ‘magic’ in between the chaos, and I will treasure them.
4. @josieshome_
My biggest tip for anyone renovating is to agree to a fixed job price, even for smaller projects! Things often take longer than expected, and if you’re paying a daily or weekly rate, delays can end up costing much more than you planned. A job price also gives your contractor incentive to get things done within the timeframe they initially estimated, so that they can move onto their next job.
5. @newbzresidence_no7
It doesn’t have to cost a lot. Second hand, heirlooms, and upcycling all help to save on costs. Facebook marketplace always seems to have what you’re after, just be patient and it will come along eventually. Most things in our home are second hand with a story to tell – a little piece of history that feels more personal.
6. @hearts_at_claremont
See if you can make the most of what you have already… You can repaint cupboard doors, paint tiles, and install a new tap or sink, to give a kitchen a fresh look without spending a fortune. Flooring can also change the feel of the whole room – choose one that will be hardwearing but also look warm and inviting.
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