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EXPERT ADVICE

What you need to know about
buying a reno features like cornicing, shutters, or Designing your space
fireplaces. On top of that, labour costs and
If you’re unsure where to start, professional
VAT should be factored in, “I’d recommend
designers can help refine ideas. A skilled architect
a 20% contingency for the full renovation
– unforeseen issues may impact on the
experienced tradespeople may introduce ideas
anticipated design and consequently the can balance aesthetics with function, while
you hadn’t considered.
cost,” says Callum.
“We are delighted to work with clients’ ideas – it’s
For a kitchen renovation, Louisa Forsyth their home and must reflect the way they wish
of Kitchens International advises: “A tiny to live,” says Callum. “But if you’re engaging a
galley kitchen will obviously cost less than professional designer, it makes sense to be open-
a large open-plan area. Our kitchens start minded about what they can bring to the table,
from £18,000, but final costs depend on which can take the interiors to another level.”
cabinetry, appliances, and worktops.”
Louisa concurs. “No two customers are the same,
Callum also suggests allocating around nor are any two kitchens, so you can’t buy it ‘off
10-15% of the property’s value for interior the peg’. The more thorough the design process,
Planning a renovation project? We speak to industry experts and furnishings, increasing to 15-20% when the better the result.”
including kitchens and bathrooms.
renovators with first-hand experience, so you know what to expect.
Social media and design magazines (including

When to call in the experts this one!) offer endless inspiration, which can
be overwhelming. Organise your ideas through
Securing the right professionals early
or some, finding the perfect home isn’t the opposite holds true! Also, be aware of Pinterest, Instagram saves, or physical mood
about purchasing a move-in ready restrictions, such as listed building regulations, ensures a smoother renovation process. boards with fabric samples, paint swatches, and
Fproperty – it’s about creating it. With before committing to a purchase.” From architects to kitchen designers, magazine clippings to articulate your vision clearly.
rising property demand, more buyers are having a cohesive team from the outset
considering renovations to craft their dream A Home Report provides valuable insights, but can prevent costly mistakes. Partial renovations and their impact

homes. Whether it’s restoring a period property, commissioning an additional building survey
modernising outdated interiors, or expanding a can uncover hidden issues. Structural concerns, “Buyers should involve us as soon as Not all projects require full-scale renovations
home to gain more space, renovations can be dampness, or outdated plumbing and electrics possible,” advises Callum. “Understanding - many homeowners opt for extensions, loft
an exciting, yet challenging, journey. can all add significant costs to a renovation. the client’s vision early prevents errors conversions, or refurbishing one room at a time.
While most problems can be fixed, they in construction or piecemeal design
However, renovations aren’t for the fainthearted. need to be factored into your overall budget. decisions that disrupt the overall flow.” “It’s important to review how the new works will
Even minor upgrades can be costly and time- Additionally, consider the extent of the work relate to the existing interiors – there should
consuming. Some buyers seek large properties required and how it affects your investment Louisa agrees: “Think about the kitchen be a natural flow with the rest of the property.”
needing extensive work, while others choose - whether you plan to sell or stay long-term, at the very beginning. The designer can Callum advises. “You don’t want a new space to
to extend smaller homes in desirable locations. understanding local property values is key. create a more functional, inspiring design look completely disconnected from the rest of the
The possibilities are endless, but budgets when involved early. They can also work home. With a large-scale renovation, we would
are not. To help navigate the process, we’ve Setting a realistic budget with the architect and builder at every always suggest a client considers moving out –
gathered insights from industry experts. stage and provide concept drawings and the whole process will be quicker and infinitely
Renovation costs vary widely depending on detailed plans for electrics and plumbing.” less stressful!”
the scale of the work. A full home overhaul
What to look for – and avoid
requires budgeting for electrics, plumbing,
“Location is crucial,” says Callum Fisken, heating, plastering, windows, doors, floors,
Director of Ampersand Interiors. “The old saying fixtures, and décor. Period properties often
Feeling ready to take on a renovation? Check espc.com for hundreds of new homes each week,
that the worst house in the best street trumps demand extra funds to restore original where you can find the one you want to personalise.

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