THROUGH A RENOVATION
KEEPING ON BUDGET AND SCHEDULE IS ONLY HALF THE BATTLE WHEN RENOVATING
I’ve been doing this for a while and I reckon I’ve learnt a few things over the years that will help you complete any home design project and maintain a happy relationship.
BEWARE THE SILENT DESIGN PARTNER
It’s important that everyone involved is on the same page. Too often I hear someone say, “I’m happy so long as she’s happy,” but in my experience, that’s not always the truth. A few weeks into the project, we’ll discover “I don’t mind” means, “I don’t mind … so long as you don’t choose black tiles or a pink door.”
And here is where things come undone; this is why so many relationships are strained during a renovation. No matter how easygoing we might think we are, when it comes to choosing colours or styles, we all have our own likes and dislikes. We mightn’t all be as forthcoming with our opinion, but when the writing – or paint or tiles – is on the wall, we will have an opinion. We’re only human! The problem is, we often don’t speak up until the materials are ordered and delivered, and the tradies are ready to get on with the job.
NAILING THE BRIEF
That’s why it’s so important to create a detailed, honest brief before you start. This needs to reflect your needs so the built environment reflects the way you live, but it also needs to reflect the emotional connection you’d like with the space.
Prior to most projects people go through magazines and Pinterest looking for inspiration. And while that is a good idea, you’ve got to remember, what you see in those heavenly, highly styled images is snapshots of other people’s lives. Their family probably doesn’t have the same practical needs as you.
MY 10-POINT PLAN
At the start of a project, I ask everyone – and I mean everyone, kids, grandparents, anyone involved – to list the 10 things they want from the renovation. And not just floorboards and marble benchtops, I’m talking about a sense of belonging, balance and security, and understanding of completion.
Of course, you need to nut out colours – and colours to avoid – but also talk about practicalities. What are your must-haves? How do you want the space to make you feel?
MAKE THE SPACE YOUR OWN
When I did this exercise with one family many years ago, the son requested a pizza oven in the outdoor area. When they shared their lists, his mum thought he was joking. But then he said, “Dad always promised, one day we’d bake pizza together.” Needless to say there may have been tears, and yes, they got their pizza oven. It just goes to show, sometimes we forget the things we promise ourselves and each other. But if you make the time to really nut things out, you could remember something important that will make your space, truly yours.