Why Your Renovation Starts with Good Design (and How to Get It)

Thinking about a renovation? Before picking tiles or fixtures, it’s worth understanding why renovation design is the first step. A well-planned design saves money, avoids headaches, and keeps your project on track. Here’s what homeowners need to know.

Why Design Matters Before You Build

A renovation design is more than choosing colours or finishes. It includes:

• Floor plans: Help visualise the space, check flow, and ensure new layouts work practically.
• Detailed drawings: Allow builders to quote accurately and reduce variations during the build.
• PC schedules (provisional cost schedules): List fixtures and finishes, keeping costs visible and under control.

These elements mean fewer surprises and help you stick to your budget when the build starts.

Design Mistakes Can Be Expensive

Murphy’s Law often applies during renovations: anything left vague will cost more later. Moving plumbing because a sink was planned in the wrong spot, or shifting walls because a layout wasn’t checked, can add thousands to your build.

Good design can highlight potential issues, such as:

• Awkward room flows
• Poor natural light
• Insufficient storage
• Noise issues with open plans

Addressing these before construction starts is far cheaper than fixing them later.

Architect or Building Designer?

• Architects are ideal for renovations requiring creative solutions or structural changes, especially for smaller blocks or complex layouts. They can manage the design and approval process and often oversee construction.
• Designers are often more affordable and well-suited to straightforward renovations requiring clear plans for council approvals and builders. Many building designers produce high-quality work, and some specialise in renovations.

Tip: Review previous projects and speak with past clients to find a professional whose work aligns with your vision.

How Fees Typically Work

Fees vary by professional and project size. Generally:

• Architects often work on a percentage of the build cost or a set fee, providing a comprehensive design and project management service if needed.
• Designers usually offer a more economical option while still providing clear plans for council approvals and builders.
• Draftspeople are suited for straightforward projects requiring plans for approval and accurate builder pricing.

Paying for proper design services upfront often reduces overall costs by avoiding variations, delays, and rework later in the build.

Should You Stage Renovations Over Time?

Some homeowners consider a “master plan” for a 10-20 year renovation approach. While planning ahead can help, prolonged staged renovations may lead to rework as tastes and needs change, and you’ll pay additional approval and builder fees with each stage.

If your budget allows, completing work in one stage often reduces overall cost and hassle.

What to Expect During the Design Phase

Once you engage a designer, expect:

1. Initial consultation: Share your goals, budget, and lifestyle needs.
2. Concept design: Preliminary sketches to refine ideas and layouts.
3. Detailed design: Finalised plans, including materials, finishes, and fixture lists.
4. Documentation: Plans for council approval and builder pricing.

Clear, collaborative discussions during design help avoid issues during construction.

How Good Design Saves You Money

• Accurate builder quotes: Builders can price accurately with detailed plans.
• Avoids costly changes: Clear plans reduce site variations, which often add costs.
• Approvals are smoother: Councils require compliant plans for approval, avoiding delays.

Ready to Plan Your Renovation?

Hiring the right designer is one of the most important steps in your renovation journey. It will help you avoid common renovation pitfalls and keep your budget under control while achieving a space that truly suits your lifestyle.

If you’re ready to find a designer, architect, or draftsman to bring your renovation vision to life, you can post your job on ServiceSeeking.com.au and start receiving quotes from qualified professionals near you. This way, you can compare experience, past projects, and pricing to find the right expert for your home.