House Extensions, Renovations & Refurbishment
2013 is imminent and some will be considering their new renovation or home extension project for the new year.
Think about what you would like to achieve from your home and make a list of the things you would like in an ideal world. Although you may not be able to afford everything on your ideal list your architect or architectural designer can advise and may come up with your perfect solution, so you can achieve a renovation which is both on budget and practical. It is important to use the expertise of your appointed designer and explore the various options they should provide you.
Consider whether you want to open up your living space or if you would rather be able to close areas off. Think about the storage space you require and your family needs and future plans. For instance, if you currently have a young family and require an open kitchen dining area, or if you have pets to consider. These days open plan living is very desirable and can really help sell a property.
Create a mood board or scrapbook with inspiration and materials you collect that you would like to implement in your project. This will help your architect as it will give them an idea of your tastes and wishes to suit your family.
Start considering where your funds are coming from. Seriously look into borrowing for your home improvement project. Look at lenders rates, those who would be willing to lend to you, and your repayments bearing in mind what is affordable.
Employ a good architect, architectural technologist or architectural designer to give you ideas, advice and draw up your floor plans and elevations. A full survey will take place and then a set of initial design drawings will be produced. These drawings will allow you to explore various ideas and options and hopefully will show things you never considered. Once you have explored the design stage next will come the planning and building regulations stages. With many years of experience and knowledge gained we at DMD Architecture will save you time and provide the best advice possible to ensure a hassle free process.
Look at value. Work out your properties current value and the value you are likely to achieve once your renovation project has been completed. This will give you a better idea of what your budget will or should be. Be realistic with the budget. It is no good designing an extension that would cost £50,000 when your budget is £30,000.
Dylan Morton Design and Architecture would like to wish you a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year. If you would like a free no obligation consultation with expert knowledge and understanding in all areas of building, renovation and design please give us a call. We are based just outside Cambridge near Royston and cover all of Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire.
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