How To Renovate

Do I really need an architect?  It’s one of the first questions I’m asked when carrying out initial renovation consultancy meetings.   While hiring an architect is optional, there are many benefits to having one on board. From quality of design to guidance with the potentially tricky planning application process. In this episode I dissect 3 examples of when you do, and 2 examples of when you might...

This week we’re back to budgets! If you’re thinking of renovating but unsure about where to pour in the cash, or tighten the purse strings? Then this episode is for you.  I’ll walk you through 4 things to splurge on, and 4 things to save on. I’ll cover the crucial areas you should spend on and in this episode I share some of my reno cost-cutting secrets. To ensure your renovation project is both f...

Budget overruns during the construction phase are a major concern for renovators. The reno process is already quite testing, and if you throw in uncertainty over budget, it can become quite overwhelming. In this episode we peel back the layers on the unexpected challenges that may come up during your renovation.    We delve into the strategies for mastering prioritising and negotiating your renova...

In this episode I guide you through the nuances of party wall agreement, and just why they're so important when it comes to construction near shared walls or boundaries. I’ll cover what exactly a party wall agreement is, when you need one and I’ve got a quick 6-step overview for you so that you can quickly familiarise yourself with the process – without all that legal jargon – from serving no...

Bathrooms can be very tricky spaces to design …they are usually smaller spaces in the home, so careful space planning and having  a good, functional layout is essential. In this episode I share my five top tips to elevate this small space into your personal sanctuary.  With 28% of UK renovators opting to revamp their bathrooms, it's evident that the quest for the perfect washroom is on! Insid...

Budget worries are right up there when it comes to renovator  stress, but there are ways you can save on your reno, and manage your budget for a far less stressful experience. Strap in for a financial makeover of your home renovation plans!  We'll tackle the art of proactive project management—if you are in control of your own renovation, then you can monitor your budget health and oversee ea...

Join me inside episode 10 (already!) to find out if you need planning permission to start that exciting renovation project! Ever found yourself scratching your head …pondering whether your dream extension falls within the realm of planning permission or if you're about to waltz into a bureaucratic nightmare?  Fear not, because this episode is quick guide on planning, where I’lI cover three co...

In this episode I talk about one of my favourite phases of the entire renovation process: Dreaming! Picture this  …your home, not just as a place to live but as a canvas for the way you really want to live.  I invite you inside this episode to discover the secrets to crafting the living space that doesn't just house your memories but actively enhances your daily life. In today's chat, we...

Have you heard the term Double the time and double the budget when chatting about home renovations before?  The  expression is a common adage in the world of home renovations, and unfortunately it’s kind of true!  It’s not that every project’s time and budget will come out doubled, but rather a phrase that manages  expectations, because if you don’t plan your renovation well and have  realistic ti...

If you're about to renovate… you have probably started to hear about all the professionals you may need to get involved. When  I self-built my north London home back in 2017, I had no idea just how  many people could possibly be involved. In this episode, I run through  an extensive list of ALL the professionals that could be involved in a  renovation project, and a short run-down of what eac...

Ever felt that flutter of anxiety …when it's time to pick a builder for your renovation project? You're not alone! With a staggering 75% of renovators biting their nails over this decision, in this episode I'm unpacking a few questions you can ask potential contractors help you make that important decision and ease your worries.  This chat isn't just a rundown, it will help you...

In this episode …we discuss the most used room in the house – the kitchen. Kitchens are the most popular rooms to renovate with 35% of renovators choosing to focus on this area, and having  a good layout in the kitchen is make or break – if your layout and  storage doesn’t work, you will hate using your kitchen!  Discover how the right design can streamline your cooking experience, making every fl...

Ready to transform your home? But overwhelmed by where to start? Let me be your guide through the labyrinth of home renovation.  This episode is a treasure trove of insights for both the seasoned renovator and the first-timer, I’ll outline five important things you can do to ensure your project is a roaring success. I’m on a mission to help you avoid the biggest renovation mistakes, and in this ep...

Imagine …taking the reins of your home renovation and crafting a space that's a perfect fit for your life.  That's the empowering path we embarked on this week. Let’s explore the undeniable advantages of leading your own home renovation project. From ensuring that your unique vision comes to life, to mastering budget and timeline control, this episode is packed with insights that can sav...

In this episode… I go over four regrets or concerns I’ve heard come up working with renovators over the years, from not hiring professionals in the correct order, to not asking the right questions, it’s all in here! Knowing the mistakes of those who have gone before you is gold dust - I know I’ve certainly made a few that you can learn from! What does a successful home renovation mean to you? This...

Welcome to the very first episode of How To Renovate! Embark on the transformation of your home with me - I’m here with Renovation Education to help set out a blueprint for turning your home into a beautiful sanctuary that's a perfect combo of your personal style and functional needs.  Brace yourself for a deep dive into the heart of home renovations, where, episode by episode, we navigate th...