When it comes to home renovations, there’s a fine balance between style, functionality and budget. Renovating is a journey and like any journey, it’s filled with excitement, decisions and a few bumps along the way. At Northside Developments, we approach every renovation with the understanding that it’s not just about updating a space, but about creating a home that feels true to its owners.
This guide, I’ll take you through the key aspects of planning and executing a quality renovation, sharing insights from our experience at Northside Developments, based in Perth, Western Australia. Whether you’re dreaming of a new kitchen, a home extension, or a complete remodel, these tips will help you make informed decisions for a successful project.
1. Establishing your vision and priorities
In all the renovation processes, one of the first steps is identifying the goals of the renovation. This may appear obvious, but it is important to steer away from just the idea of ‘freshening up’. Consider how the space will function, how it will be used and what kind of feeling it will be desired to create.
For instance, in a kitchen remodeling I participated in, the family did not want just a beautiful kitchen, but also a functional one that contained enough storage, surfaces that would not be hard to clean and enough space for hosting guests without straining. While the emphasis was on hard wearing materials and smart storage, a clean, contemporary look was still maintained.
2. Budgeting smartly without compromising quality
It will cost you differently depending on the extent of work needed, materials and patterns. Therefore, it is prudent to set expectations in the budget, which would allow making price wise quality choices, but not too steep. I have always advised clients to allow for at least an additional 10-15% of the budget for unforeseen expenditures; because such occurrences are bound to take place after work has commenced.
At Northside Developments, we have worked on client education on the effects of their choices on the prices of the materials and construction in general. For example, instead of a natural stone, the use of engineered stone can be ordered for kitchen countertops in order to minimise expenses and still manage to achieve a clean and stylish look. Similarly, using quality bath tiles is worth it in areas such as bathrooms which are prone to wear and tear.
3. Choosing the right materials for durability and style
The elements you opt for will affect not only the aesthetic appeal of the renovation but also how long the renovation will last. When it comes to Australian houses, we are fortunate to have numerous materials that fit various climates and preferences. And it is no surprise that the materials that do well in our warm climate, timber, brick and stone have become the favorite materials for many builders.
In one of the recent home projects, we used locally grown timber for the cabinets and the flooring, which added warmth and texture to the room. It’s a strong option that caters well to active families and offers an element of the outdoors inside.
Also, think about the servicing requirements of materials as well. Natural stones can be stunning but come with the downside of maintenance since they need sealing from time to time to maintain their luster. Outwardly appealing porcelain tiles can be used instead but give less trouble in terms of maintenance.
4. The importance of functional design
A good design is not just pleasing to the eye, but it means that the space works without any burden to the person. In other words, functional design is of utmost importance in places like kitchens, bathrooms or living rooms where there is need for provision of storage space, movement and usability.
I remember doing a project for a family that enjoyed cooking and hosting parties. We designed deep drawers for pots and pans and pull-out shelves for spices and a big center island with seats. The kilos should be able to please the eyes but most importantly the kitchen should function quite well for them.
With regards to bathrooms, there can be areas that are intentionally left open for toiletries, some compartments can be left open whilst others closed and the lighting designed to be soft and usable. Any room can be made better by the combination of the three movements of light, task lighting, ambient lighting and accent lighting.
5. Creating a cohesive aesthetic
When it comes to renovation projects, room remodeling often turns into a series of renovations of several rooms at once. And it is obvious that when each space follows a different style, the designs appear incoherent and klutzy. While difference is appreciated, consistency of purpose enhances the overall perception of the house. This is not saying that every room has to have the identical look, some aspects should be consistently there.
At Northside Developments, we frequently apply a universal color scheme, or use the same materials over and over again, for uniformity. For example, using timber elements in conjunction with black hardware throughout the house would create cohesion without necessarily making every room look the same.
6. Incorporating energy-efficient features
Energy efficiency is increasingly important for both environmental and financial reasons. Incorporating eco-friendly features into your renovation can lead to long-term savings on utility bills and add value to your property.
In one recent project, we installed energy-efficient windows, upgraded the insulation and incorporated LED lighting throughout. Solar skylights in the kitchen brought in plenty of natural light, reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day. It’s these little changes that can make a home more sustainable and comfortable to live in.
7. Working with a trusted builder
A quality renovation starts with a skilled team and choosing the right builder can make all the difference. At Northside Developments, we place a strong emphasis on communication, craftsmanship and transparency. We take pride in guiding our clients every step of the way, ensuring they’re informed and confident in each decision.
From concept to completion, working closely with your builder allows for a smoother, more enjoyable renovation experience. I always encourage clients to ask questions, get to know our team and feel comfortable sharing their ideas. Renovations can be complex, but with the right builder, the process is collaborative and rewarding.
8. Understanding the renovation timeline
One of the most common questions we get is, “How long will this take?” Timelines vary depending on the scope of the project, but understanding a general timeframe helps manage expectations. A kitchen or bathroom remodel may take around 6-8 weeks, while a full home renovation could be several months.
At Northside Developments, we believe in transparency and we work closely with clients to keep them updated on progress. Unexpected delays can happen, whether due to materials or permits, but with clear communication, these bumps in the road are easier to navigate.
Final thoughts: Achieving your dream renovation
Renovating your home is a journey of transformation and the results can be incredibly fulfilling. At Northside Developments, we’re dedicated to helping our clients create spaces they love, where form meets function in the best possible way. A successful renovation reflects your style, supports your daily life, and, most importantly, feels like home.
Whether you’re planning a small update or a complete overhaul, we’re here to provide guidance, expertise and a commitment to excellence. Renovating can be one of the best investments you make, adding value not just to your property but to your lifestyle.
If you’re ready to transform your space, we’d love to help. Contact Northside Developments today to discuss how we can bring your vision to life with a renovation that truly enhances your home.
