A Tasteful Renovation To A New Build
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Often renovators look to buy a home which already has character, when actually we can inject so much style and personality into even the most modern of homes.
This is exactly what Insta account @home_and_adventures_ have done. Having bought a new build, they've added a large extension and created the most wonderful open plan living space with such beautiful style throughout.
We chat to the owner Tracey, who shares with us her renovation story and tips for fellow renovators.
Can you tell us about your home and renovation project?
We bought our home 7 years ago and didn’t really intend on living in it as we were both military then.
I have since left the RAF and after a sale fell through on a larger house, we realised what a perfect location this one was so we decided to extend and renovate and have exactly what we wanted. It’s the best decision we ever made.
The hallway during the renovation
The hallway after the renovation - the dark walnut flooring adds so much character
What was the most challenging thing about the renovation?
The hardest thing for us was managing it remotely. We were 2 hours away and things would have moved more quickly and smoothly if we were there.
The original kitchen and space in the new build house
Did you work with an architect to design the extension and was your planning application straightforward?
We worked with Amico Design Architectural Design and planning was easy as we only went out 4 metres, so we only required permitted development.
The stunning plum kitchen island in the beautiful kitchen
Did you have a budget and how did you stick to it?
We were very fortunate as we were mortgage free. We had a loose budget and didn’t budget for absolutely everything as we’ve literally had everything new. We were over but I would say by no more than 10% and that’s because we got prices and researched lots before setting the budget.
We also managed to sell our old kitchen through the used kitchen company. They removed it for free and we were paid £2k for it, so it saved us around £3.5k in total!
The panelling has added so much character to the downstairs loo
We love the colours of the kitchen that you chose, how did you decide on the scheme?
I wanted the kitchen to be different as I was bored of seeing navy and cream all the time. I saw the island colour on a Neptune kitchen and matched my own shade from RAL colours. It's even better than I thought it would be and I love how rich it is and so unique.
Another view of the beautiful kitchen which has added so much style to the home
What would be your advice for anyone just about to start out?
My advice would be research, be decisive and lock prices in early. We saved thousands by paying deposits a year in advance, and prices increased significantly the following year.
Also if you change one small detail the knock on effect is huge, change one thing you’ll have to change at least 5 others. You need to think about every detail really carefully.
Budget absolutely everything you can think of and then add a safety on top. We kept £50k as a buffer which thankfully we didn’t need but it meant we weren't worrying about money at any time!
We spent 7 years living in horrible military houses, buying nothing for them and saving up. It was so hard at the time but so worth it now!
The stylish utility room which flows beautiful in style from the kitchen
If you are thinking about a renovation project in the near future and need some help finding an architect or designer, we can match you with the most suitable ones for your project.
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Published: August 4, 2022
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