![It is nice to be quoted: “A skylight is a horizontal window that provides natural light into rooms and corridors that [usually] cannot have windows,” says MacInnis. “Skylights can also provide outlooks to the sky, which in itself ca](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5bfb5bdfcc8fed3bb9285ae7/1651200504539-2BYM0FJWR78PZFE4IHYS/image-asset.jpeg)
I love to explore the innovative idea of using pot planters as light shade options in house design. This concept blends functionality with aesthetic appeal, creating a unique and eco-friendly approach to interior design.
Read MoreMy feature article on Houzz
Expert Eye: Everything You Need to Know About Skylights & Voids
From costs and glare control to what you need to consider, three architects share the lowdown on skylights and voids
Read More
Invisible designs can be magic.
The best design can be invisible.
Read MoreAustralia By Design Series for great inspirational ideas for your home.
It is a great show with lots of ideas. Worth watching on You Tube or Channel 10 Catch up. Hope to have my next project featured in 2021.
Also the final Australia by Design Interiors. Well worth a watch.
Great software design tools for visualising your home renovation
Great software design tools for visualising your home renovation.
Read MoreDon't put your design dreams on hold. Seize the day!
If anything this pandemic has taught us is that the future is uncertain and we need to embrace life. Living in close quarters with other members of your family and spending more time at home now, this is the perfect time to revisit how you want to live. It is a great time to collect your design thoughts for your home revamp.
Is your dining table a makeshift office, classroom and craft room?
Here are 5 ideas to start your Design Dream of a Renovation Project.
Create a scrapbook/lookbook - these days collecting your ideas can be done on Pinterest, Houzz or another app. Having an area where you keep images you like can be a great starting place to refine what your style and design bent is.
By visualising your ideas you can start to see a new future
2. Decide on the amenity you need. As we face lockdowns and a new environment the home has taken on new functions. Deciding how you use your renovation space is an important step. While as an architect I can assist you with how the home functions and looks, you need to scope out what you really need. Understanding that is best done by creating a list of needs and rooms. This should take into account your family lifecycle and plan for the next 10-15 years. Will your kids still be living with you? Do you need to plan for the care of your parents? Are you likely to be working from home more in the future?
3. Get your original plans. Having your original plans from your local council is a great first step. It will assist you in knowing where the walls and boundaries of your property are and if there are any issues with the building envelope.
Ask your local council for your house plans
4. Inspiration is everywhere. Now is the time when we have more time at home to look for those little ideas that can change the way you live and make it easier. Looking on Instagram, Pinterest and housing magazines can create some new ideas and inspiration.
Know your style and aesthetic
5. Set a realistic time frame and budget
Most renovation timeframes are over a year. The permits and approvals can take 6 months depending on your council and plans. It is good to have a realistic timeframe so you can plan your life and key events around the renovation. Setting a budget is more difficult and you may need to scope your project first and then get a quantity surveyor to price it.
So as you can see there is a lot you can start to do to plan your renovation. Use your time wisely and start the process today.