If you’re about to embark on planning a renovation, it’s really worthwhile to spend some time developing your goals; considering why you want to renovate and what you want to achieve. If you are thinking of working with a designer, this will help you to choose the right designer for you, and your project, and help you to be an excellent client. If you are managing the work yourself, this piece of thinking will help you to prioritise where to spend your budget, and what to focus on in the design. It will also help to check that everyone involved has the same vision – or to work out what the challenges are before you get too far down the line.
If you choose to work with APM on your renovation, we’ll send you a set of questions to help develop your brief, but if you want to start your thinking before you appoint a designer or project manager, here are some places to start;
What problems are you wanting to solve?
With a very few exceptions, most people don’t renovate for the sheer fun of it… so if you’ve got this far there are probably some things you really want to change. Think about the problems you are wanting to solve; whether that’s addressing issues on your survey, improving energy efficiency, adopting renewable energy sources, or making the rooms work better for your needs.
It’s really useful to capture irritations with your current space – even if you think they are small problems. These will tell a designer a lot about how you use the space and what is important to you.
What functions does your home need to fulfil?
It sounds obvious, but think about all the things you need and want to be able to do in your home, how important they are, and how much space you want to dedicate to each. For example, Is your priority a spacious bedroom, a flexible family living room, or an entertaining space?
What, and who, needs to fit into the space?
Think about who lives in the house now, and who might in the future… including growing children and pets. Consider what the must-haves are in terms of furniture and storage. It can help to work through what doesn’t have a good storage solution in your current home; e.g. the awkward suitcase, sports equipment, special shoes or niche cookware.
What are your restrictions?
Consider your budget, time limitations, and any restrictions relating to the building (for example, if the building is listed, or any changes are subject to freeholder permission).
What style do you like?
You could look at Pinterest, Houzz, interior design magazines, or designer’s portfolio projects to help you to work out what you do and don’t like in interiors. It is also useful to get clear on what you don’t like – including any colours you hate.
Are you planning a renovation Brighton or London for the new year, and need some help? Get in touch now