Meet the team Our five experts are here to help you transform your home into the design of your dreams

TO TRANSFORM YOUR HOME INTO THE DESIGN OF YOUR DREAMS, YOU’LL NEED POWERHOUSE PROFESSIONALS BY YOUR SIDE. OUR FIVE EXPERT PANELLISTS DISCUSS THE KEY ROLES IN GETTING IT RIGHT

Behind every remarkable reveal in a home renovation – from the revived kitchen to the reimagined garden – lies a team of devoted experts. And for most homeowners grappling with the mammoth task of renovating, extending or managing a new build, confusion can shroud the process of pulling together a winning team. “A renovation is like making a movie; there are so many roles to bring together to make the feature,” says Joe Snell, director of Studio Snell. With this in mind, here’s our guide to the key professionals that you will need to consider for a star-studded cast of your own.

THE ARCHITECT

If you’re building from scratch or undertaking a renovation that involves changing the structure and function of your home, an architect is a must-have. As well as designing and drafting plans, he or she can also act as a project manager (for an extra fee) and oversee the entire process, so be clear on how much involvement you require based on your budget. “Architects listen to your brief and then, with the circumstances of your specific building and site, design a home for your future,” explains Joe. “They are then with you throughout the project to liaise with the builder, the council and other consultants to get the building built.” Finding the right architect should be a renovator’s top priority, so dig deep to discover your ideal match. “Do your research, ask your friends and family for recommendations and always talk to more than one architect,” says Joe. “Interview a number of architects and choose someone you trust.” >

“ARCHITECTS ARE EXPERTS IN CREATING BUILDINGS THAT BRING delight AND practicality TO YOUR LIFE, AS WELL AS ADD VALUE TO YOUR HOME” – Joe Snell

THE BUILDER

“Selecting a qualified and experienced builder for the job is essential, as they’re responsible for delivering your finished product on spec, on time and on budget,” says Melissa Bonney, founder of multi-disciplinary design studio The Designory. So, what qualifications should you be looking for? “They need to hold a builder’s licence and must have completed a trade qualification, such as a Diploma of Building and Construction, and have two years’ industry experience,” she explains. Sift through their past projects to be certain the quality of their work aligns with your vision. “Due diligence is required,” adds HB renovation expert Saul Myers. “You need to get references from your builder – most will be proud to show you previous projects they’ve done.” And don’t be afraid to door knock. “Building or renovating is such a personal venture and most people will share their experiences, good or bad,” he says.

“EVERY PROJECT IS different, SO THE MORE PROJECTS A BUILDER HAS COMPLETED, THE MORE THEY’LL BE ABLE TO TROUBLESHOOT AND PROVIDE strong SOLUTIONS” – Melissa Bonney

THE INTERIOR DESIGNER

Trained to redesign interior layouts, draft plans and source finishes, fixtures and fittings, these design gurus commit to far more than styling, which is why they should be on board from the get-go. “Engage an interior designer at the concept stage, so they can work alongside your architect with the space planning,” advises interior designer Kate Walker, director of Kate Walker Design. “They ensure the sight lines are right, make sure the furniture will fit, and that the intended joinery design will work in the space.” Art selection, furniture sourcing and room layouts can all be taken care of by an interior designer – as it was within this space, designed by Studio Ezra. These experts can also ensure you stay on top of your budget, and even manage relationships between your other professionals. Choosing your interior designer will depend on your personal style, whether it be coastal, Hamptons or modern, as they direct the home’s visual theme. “Often, people will engage a designer based on their particular design aesthetic,” says Kate. Check out a designer’s online portfolio, as well as their social media accounts, to see if their work aligns with your vision and, before your first meeting, gather inspiration and visual references to show them what you have in mind. >

“IT’S IMPORTANT TO LOOK FOR AN INTERIOR DESIGNER WHO YOU FEEL IS genuine AND authentic AND, MOST OF ALL, WHO LISTENS TO YOU – Kate Walker

“FIND A LANDSCAPE DESIGNER YOU CAN TRUST, AND THEN TRUST THEM TO push YOU OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE TO DELIVER SOMETHING amazing - Matt Leacy

THE LANDSCAPE DESIGNER

“The changes a landscape designer can make outside are just as important as the changes an architect can bring about inside,” says landscape designer Matt Leacy, describing how a well-designed garden can “soften and complete a building”. As their key role involves designing outdoor spaces, including pools, alfresco areas and facades, they need to foster a connection with the homeowners to understand their lifestyles. “Landscape designers should take on board how the client would like to use their outdoor space and deliver something they couldn’t think of on their own,” says Matt. When searching for your perfect match, Matt recommends choosing a designer with “a good track record. Meet them to make sure you gel with them as a person and are inspired by their thoughts and ideas.” These garden gurus also handle the nitty-gritty, such as designing to legislation, to keep a renovation running smoothly. “There’s a lot of work that goes into facilitating all the necessary approvals and certifications to build your project,” he explains. “Landscape designers deal with heritage consultants, arborists, hydraulic engineers and council officers on behalf of a client.” These outdoors experts also bring a level of professionalism to every detail, as they understand the turf and can provide advice on paving, planting and power and lighting requirements.