Renovations and New Builds - Why You Should Get an Interior Designer Involved in the Early Stages

Renovations and new builds can be a daunting and stressful process. From figuring out the right floor plan to choosing the perfect wall colours and door handles, there is A LOT that you have to consider from the get-go. Our Balmoral Project is a great example of how engaging an interior designer for your renovation is a must-do...

Our clients were planning on raising and renovating their Balmoral property and had already engaged their trades - they just needed us to advise them on optimising the floor plan, colour scheme, fixtures and finishes to ensure they were left with a cohesive interior and were able to achieve their look on a budget.

We started off with a walk-through of the house in it's original state to get an idea of the scale and the potential changes that the client already had in mind. We were able to make a few recommendations then and there, however the majority of the decisions were made after many further discussions.

We put together a return brief (this is part of our consultation service) to help lay out the scope of works as well as some inspiration moodboards to help guide the preliminary interior schemes. There was one moodboard in particular that our clients automatically gravitated towards, so we ran with that inspiration and continued with the individual selections.

In the meantime, our clients had some floor plans done up and upon the second walk-through (during the demo stage) we came up with a more optimal floor plan that we thought would maximise the space and function.

For the master ensuite we wanted to include a double shower and bath, so after a few tweaks to the original floor plan we landed on a layout that could accomodate both. The features ultimately add so much value to the space, which is paramount when it comes to investment properties (which this one is!).

BEFORE: Originally the sunroom off the master bedroom, this space was dark and uninspiring. It was, however, a nicely-sized space so had great potential to use as the ensuite.

AFTER: The end result of the master ensuite bathroom renovation where considered interior design selections were made to maximise the floor plan and functionality.

BEFORE: What was once a small bedroom would be turned into a light-filled kitchen

DURING: Taken at the second walk-through we realised there was ample space behind the left-hand wall to allow to push this back to open up the kitchen and include sought-after features such as a blind pantry and more storage space.

AFTER: We suggested to push the wall back (behind it was a wide hallway to the laundry) to make space for an ample blind pantry and extra storage. *A few handles yet to be installed, but you get the overall look!

Believe it or not, the above results were made using budget-friendly options such as the use of IKEA cabinetry, tapware, and affordable tile choices. There's so much you can do to create a beautiful interior, even if you are on a tight budget and it all lies in the careful, considered planning and selections at the beginning of the project. Nailing your overall aesthetic and colour scheme for your interiors in the planning stage sets you on the right path moving forward in your renovation or new build journey!

Get in touch with us today to organise your 1-hour consultation. Phone 1300 591 444.