Form Follows Function: A Designer’s Take on Home Renovation Hype
Deciding whether you can live in your home during a home renovation depends on the size and complexity of the project. Small updates, like a bathroom or single-room remodel, may be manageable with some inconvenience. However, larger home renovations involving structural changes, utility shutdowns, or hazardous materials can make staying unsafe and impractical. From dust and debris to noise, safety hazards, and loss of basic amenities, it’s important to weigh the risks before deciding. Talking with your builder will help determine whether living through your home renovation is realistic—or if moving out temporarily is the smarter choice.
Can I Live in My Home While Renovating?
Wondering if you can live in your home during a renovation project? The answer really depends on the overall scale of your project and your tolerance for disruption. While small updates—like a bathroom or single-room remodel—might be manageable, major home renovations involving significant structural work, hazardous materials, or temporary utility shutdowns often make staying put unsafe and uncomfortable. Before deciding, carefully weigh the potential risks of dust, noise, safety hazards, and limited access to important daily essentials. A clear, detailed plan with your builder will help determine whether it’s smarter to stay—or move out temporarily during the home renovation process.
Complying Development vs. Development Application: Understanding the Differences
Understanding the difference between complying development vs development application (DA) in NSW is essential when planning a new home, extension, or renovation. Complying development provides a faster approval pathway—often within 20 days—if your project meets strict planning standards for zoning, height, and setbacks. By contrast, a development application in NSW is required for more complex builds or projects that don’t fully comply with local regulations, with council approvals often taking several months. Knowing which approval process applies can save time, reduce costs, and keep your building project on track.
When considering a home extension from a clients perspective there are several key factors that come to mind
Planning a home renovation or home extension? Choosing a builder and designer who work together—or a multidisciplinary design and build team—can make all the difference. This collaborative approach ensures your project runs smoothly, stays on budget, and delivers high-quality results. From setting a realistic budget and timeline to maximising space, improving functionality, and boosting resale value, a coordinated team helps you achieve a renovation that’s stylish, durable, and built to last. Whether you’re updating your kitchen, extending upwards, or redesigning your living space, the right team will turn your vision into a dream home.
The makings of a stress-free Home Extension and Home Renovation experience.
Bad building experiences often dominate everyday conversations, but a well-planned home renovation doesn’t have to be stressful. The key is proper coordination—ensuring your budget, design selections, and construction align seamlessly from the start. From bathroom fixtures and kitchen joinery to flooring, windows, and appliances, every choice should be carefully integrated into the overall plans before work begins. By working with a builder and designer who communicate and coordinate effectively, you’ll avoid costly mistakes, reduce stress, and enjoy a smoother home renovation journey that delivers lasting results.
Choosing the right home renovation company to design and build with.
Choosing the right company for your home renovation can make all the difference between a smooth project and a stressful experience. Many homeowners rely on cost alone, only to face unexpected issues and smaller-than-expected results. A structured approach with experienced designers and builders ensures your renovation meets your needs and avoids costly mistakes. Always perform thorough reference checks—visit current and completed projects, and speak to previous clients—to gain real insight into the company. If they won’t facilitate this step, it’s a clear sign they may not be the right fit for your home renovation project.
We are going to stay and extend
If you’re planning a home extension or home renovation, understanding true costs before committing is crucial. Early estimates based solely on square meters can be misleading, leaving families unsure about bedroom sizes, kitchen layouts, or overall design suitability. A reputable company will offer a Concept Design Phase, providing detailed drawings and realistic cost estimates for a modest fee. This approach ensures you make informed decisions, explore design options, and avoid spending tens of thousands without clarity. Proper planning at this stage sets your home extension up for a smoother, cost-effective, and successful home renovation project.
Should we extend and renovate our home or sell?
Planning a home renovation or home extension starts with understanding your family’s current and future needs. Whether you’re adding bedrooms, creating extra living spaces, or designing for multi-generational living, careful planning can save money and avoid costly mistakes. Thorough research—such as exploring comparable homes, assessing local amenities, and understanding building regulations—is essential. Consulting experienced home renovation companies or multi-discipline design-and-build teams ensures your project is realistic, functional, and aligned with your long-term goals. A professional approach helps families decide whether to stay and extend or move, making your home renovation or extension a smart and successful investment.
