Whether you’re renovating your existing home, or taking on a new project, there’s nothing more satisfying than a newly renovated property. But getting there isn’t always straightforward, especially if it’s an old house. We’re here to make sure that your renovation doesn’t cost more time, money and stress than you’d bargained for.

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1. Making Plans

Before you even start to play with ideas, spend a few days observing how you use the current space. Make a note of where you need more room, more light, and more privacy. You may find that what you want isn’t exactly what you need. This is the best time to start talking to an architectural design expert who can offer alternative solutions to help with tricky decisions.

2. Planning Permission & Permitted Development

Not every job requires planning permission, but if you are carrying out any building work, even inside the home, you will probably need at least permitted development status. Your local planning authority has online guides that give you an idea of what you will need before you start, and this can save time and make the application process simpler.

3. Replace Or Restore?

Old windows and doors are sometimes unsalvageable. A sympathetic replacement often looks much better than an original piece that is past its useful life and can also greatly improve your home’s insulation and energy efficiency. If features like fireplaces can’t be restored, you may be able to replace them with ones in better condition from the same time period – keep an eye on local auction houses.

4. Power & Water

These can be some of the more expensive parts of a renovation, but modernising plumbing and heating systems can result in much lower bills and have a dramatic effect on the value of your home. Make sure you match any updates with appropriate insulation for maximum savings.

5. First Impressions

Even if you’re not making external changes to the front of the house, consider replacing old guttering, fencing and fascias. You can get a fresh look for very little outlay.

The one thing that helps to really keep the stress levels down on a big job like this is to have a single point of contact – someone in charge of the work who’ll keep in touch with you, while helping to manage contractors, suppliers, budgets and paperwork. At BDS Architecture, we are committed to communication, supporting you at every step to make your dream project a reality.

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