How to make the most of the Corona Virus Lockdown to plan your reno.

We are all stuck inside for so much more time than we are use to. If you were planning to update your home with a renovation this is valuable time you can use. Here are 5 tasks you can start while you are in lock down.

  1. Ask your council for your original plans. You need to have your original house plans so your architect can see what envelope we are working with. This will also confirm your land boundaries and any pits or council services that you can’t build on.

  2. Start a crap book of ideas. These days you call them Mood boards but you can start one of these on Pinterest or Houzz. This gives you time to consolidate ideas about what you like and dislike. This will be very useful as you work through the design pallet and room functions.

  3. Talk with your partner. We all have time together, but it is amazing how many couples haven’t totally agreed on the needs of a new renovation. Locking down those key elements takes discussion.

  4. Contact your Architect. It takes time to build the plans for your renovation. You can use this 4-6months to get your plans done and finalise any permits through council. Most architects can still meet with you (all be it 1.5 metres apart) or can conduct zoom meetings online. Building 3D models allow you to walk through your project before it starts out on site.

  5. Decide on a budget. The hardest step is often determining a realistic budget, but it is an important step. It helps define the design scope, finishes and sometimes timing of the renovation. By being transparent about your budget, your architect can work within that and provide a estimate of costs using an expert quantity surveyor.

So time is ticking. When you are bored at home, why not set up a Pinterest page and start collecting ideas. Ring your council for plans and book a time to talk with your architect to get started.