EXPERT TIPS

TONY KARSTEN, ARCHITECTURAL

DESIGNER AT KAD ,

> You must work with what you’ve got and have realistic goals. With the general cost of building at present, it is easy to aim too high and you will end up overcapitalising.

Look for good ‘bang for buck’ solutions. Often a set of French doors, a new deck and pergola on the sunny side of a house can be a cheap alteration that has a huge impact.

Timber decks are generally cheap ways to enhance a house and create character. They can easily contain features such as built-in seating, planters, interesting angles and split levels.