How To Renovate

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Hi my lovely renovators!
Today, we're diving into something I don’t talk about often but is absolutely crucial—how to survive a renovation with your relationship intact. It’s a little tongue-in-cheek, sure, but the emotional strain of renovating with a partner is very real, and after years of navigating this both personally and professionally, I’ve got a lot to say.

From design and budget disagreements to decision fatigue, today I’m sharing some strategies I use to help couples make it through the chaos—still liking...

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If you're someone who loves having people over—whether it’s lively dinner parties, relaxed drinks with friends, or chaotic but joyful kids' parties, this episode is made for you. 
Today, I’m walking you through how to design or renovate your home with entertaining in mind.

Because let’s be honest, hosting is so much more enjoyable when your space is planned for it and it flows beautifully.
Whether you’re planning from scratch or looking to tweak your current setup, I’ll share ideas that will help you creat...

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Okay, confession time…
One of my favourite rooms to design in the home is the utility room. I know — it sounds boring. 
But trust me, it's one of the hardest-working and most overlooked spaces in a home.

In this week’s episode of How To Renovate, I’m making the case for why you need a utility space — even if it’s just a cupboard under the stairs.

We’ll chat about:
  Why a utility area can reduce stress and clutter
Planning tips to make it super...

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Hello, I’m back this week with a little love for the small but mighty kitchen. If your kitchen didn’t get top billing—this episode is for you. Kitchens often have to work the hardest in the home, and when expanding isn’t an option, it’s all about making the most of what you have. 

Today, I’m sharing practical tips and a few interior design solutions to help you make your small kitchen feel bigger, brighter, and better. 

We’ll chat through: 

Lighting that flatters and func...

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Does Renovating Add Value in 2025? | Home Renovation ROI Explained

Wondering if renovating your home is worth the investment in 2025? In this episode of How To Renovate, I break down down the financial pros and cons of renovating vs. moving, UK renovation trends, return on investment for loft conversions and extensions, and how to budget smartly. Discover when it makes sense to renovate. 

With UK house prices still rising and the cost of moving continuing to soar, more homeowners are choosing to renovate rather than relocate.

In this e...

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Have you ever visited somewhere that influenced changed how you think about design? 

That’s kind of what happened during my five-week Barcelona getaway. Buzzing Barcelona captured my heart and reinforced my love of cities, just like London did. The medieval alleyways, sunny squares, arty influences, and modern buildings alongside  Gaudí’s dreamlike architecture collide to create a place that is historic, modern,  endlessly alive, and really quite special.

Our family of four stayed in a gorgeously-designed little rental apartment accessed by stepping off a bustling Barcelona street, and  through o...

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After a long, inspiring summer in Barcelona, I’m back—and filled with ideas sparked by the incredible, playful architecture of Gaudí. 

In this episode, we dive into the joy of designing with a sense of play and freedom. Gaudí's bold use of curves, colour, and nature-inspired forms reminded me just how powerful it can be to bend the rules and follow your imagination when it comes to designing our homes.

We’ll explore breaking the “design rules”, exploring using all the layers of an interior, designing for feeling—not j...

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In this week's episode of How To Renovate, I’m kicking things off with a little personal update — I’m heading off to Barcelona for a month! It’s a working holiday (with some well-deserved tapas and sunshine), and while the podcast will be on pause, I’ll be soaking up fresh inspiration, sourcing new ideas, and lining up brilliant guests for when I’m back in September.

But back to this episode: it’s a topic I’ve learned countless lessons on – and not always the easy way! We’re talking about what y...

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In this episode, I dive into one deceptively simple yet absolutely crucial mantra for any renovator: never assume anything!

From wonky walls and uneven floors to miscommunications with your builder, assumptions can cost you time, money, and peace of mind.

Come on in as I share my hard-won insights (so you don’t have to learn the hard way), I’ll walk you through some of the most common renovation assumptions—and how to avoid them. Learn why double-checking measurements is a superpower, how to communicate clearly with your contra...

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Every renovator should be a little concerned about what lurks behind those walls they’re about to tear down! 

What unseen challenges are waiting to topple your carefully planned budget and timeline? From old wiring to unsupported chimney breasts and even asbestos, 
in this episode I walk you through the common issues that can crop up once your build begins. 

The financial implications of these unexpected surprises are obvious, but don't underestimate the emotional toll of extended timelines when you're either living on a building site or paying for a...

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If you’ve renovated before, you’ll know that it can be very exciting—but let’s face it, it can also be overwhelming. In this episode of I’m talking about something not often discussed but absolutely essential: the power of a well-timed pause. 

A strategic breather can give you clarity, reduce costly mistakes, and help you reconnect with your vision. Join me inside where I’ll share signs you might need a pause (I’ve been there many times myself!) and how to use that time wisely. 

Renovating moves...

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Recently, a well-designed home office has become one of the most requested rooms in the renovation projects I work on. As more and more people are working from home a few days a week, or even permanently, creating a dedicated workspace that's comfortable and  functional, is essential for productivity and wellbeing.

The shift to remote work has revolutionised how we think about our homes—no longer relegated to spare corners or temporary setups, home offices have become essential rooms or dedicated areas deserving thoughtful design consideration.
 
 In this episode, I wan...

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This episode delves into the art of designing with heritage, exploring how to preserve the soul of your period property. We talk about what to preserve, what can be adapted, and how to blend the charm of historic details with the functionality of modern living.

I also share stories from my own renovation projects, from Victorian terraces to Art Deco apartments, and the joy of sourcing reclaimed treasures that breathe character back into a space. 

And for homes where previous naughty renovators have stripped away character, I share my t...

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Today’s episode is a gentle but firm permission to break the floor plan! Stop letting outdated room labels or cookie-cutter layouts dictate how you live in your home. Estate agents may have labelled the rooms, but that doesn’t mean you have to live in them that way.

Maybe you need a yoga space. A music nook. A second office. Or just a calm, sunlit corner to drink your morning coffee and take a breath.

Renovating is not just about moving walls or chasing square footage. We want to c...

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Renovating your home isn't just about floorplans, finishes, or finding the perfect team — as much as those are important, it's also about managing your energy and emotions. In this episode, I’m getting real about renovation burnout. 

It’s a challenge that rarely gets discussed in the renovation world, yet it affects many homeowners when their lives don't stop during major home transformations. 

So, let’s talk… inside, I’m covering what it is, how to spot it, and most importantly, how to sidestep it with some smart (and kind) planning...

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In this episode I talk about art adds personality, depth, and soul to your home, and how it can be a powerful guiding force when planning your interiors too. 

I unpack how to plan for art early on in your renovation—from considering sight lines and lighting, to using art to influence colour palettes, textures and floor plans.

We’ll also cover how to add sentimental pieces, and how to find something unique that doesn’t break the bank. And at the end there are some quick tips on how to...

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Today I share the renovation mistakes you don’t know you’re making – until it’s too late.

I'm going to help you avoid those mistakes that I find people find out just a little bit too late. They've spent years thinking about their renovation, they've spent months and months carrying out their renovation, only to move into their finished home and find that a few things are just not quite right. 

So, today's episode is dedicated to helping you spot and think about those small decisions, that end...

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Sometimes in renovation, you hit a wall—literally. Whether it's a support column smack in the middle of your open-plan dream, or a chimney stack that you just can’t remove… every home has its quirks. But here's the thing: some of those stubborn features can be opportunities in disguise.

In this episode I’m walking you through how to reframe those unchangeable features—the ones that can’t be moved or removed—and turn them into standout elements of your design. Stick with me here - with some clever tricks like tricking...

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In this episode of How To Renovate, I’m helping you see around corners when it comes to your renovation budget. It's so easy to focus on the big, shiny items like kitchens and bathrooms — but what about the hidden costs that quietly creep up on you? Today, we dive into the often-overlooked expenses that can derail your project if you're not prepared, from the real costs of late-stage changes to sneaky permit fees and unexpected accommodation costs. Grab a pen and paper, because this is one episode you'll want to 
take notes...

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Light isn't just about brightening a space, it fundamentally transforms how we feel in our homes. When you walk into a light-filled room, there's an immediate sense of warmth and energy that simply can't be replicated with artificial lighting.

In this episode I share a personal experience of how dramatically different educational environments—one dark and oppressive, one flooded with natural light—shaped my understanding of how buildings affect our emotional state. When I think back to it, this early awareness really formed the foundation of my approach to using light as a...

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Do you ever open your wardrobe and feel instantly… annoyed?

Overflowing drawers, crammed rails, mystery piles of socks — we’ve all been there. But here’s the thing: wardrobe storage doesn’t have to be a daily frustration. In this week’s episode of How To Renovate, I’m sharing my go-to strategies for designing wardrobe storage that actually works.

This episode is full of practical tips I use with clients all the time.

Inside I share how to work out exactly how much space you need, clever layout...

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What makes a house truly feel like home? Beyond beautiful furniture and perfect paint colors lies something more profound – the personal stories woven into your living space. 

Taking inspiration from a recent client project where we've moved beyond renovation to thoughtfully selecting meaningful objects, this episode explores why surrounding yourself with items that tell your story creates a deeper connection to your space. Your identity is essentially a collection of stories, and bringing elements from your past, travels, and meaningful experiences into your home reflects who you truly are.

The...

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This is the 50th episode of How To Renovate. When I started the podcast, back in February 2024, the idea was to  focus on short informative episodes about the renovation process. And although I’ve mainly stuck to that, I’ve also found so much joy in interviewing some incredible people and exploring just how much our homes mean to us.

Our homes are powerful, they can either support our needs, daily lives and our well-being, or they do not. 
Home is more than just four walls, it’s what happens inside...

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Renovation inspiration doesn’t always have to come from a screen. It doesn't have to come from Pinterest and Instagram and TV, useful as they may be sometimes!

In this episode, I want to help you explore other places and ways to get that inspiration for your home.

Seeing something on a screen and trying to copy it can look, well, copied. I find that best design ideas come from unexpected places, and sometimes the smallest things can spark the best ideas.

So let’s get into it a...

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What makes a home truly special? It's not the magnolia walls or the  generic fixtures that developers often choose to please everyone—and ends  up inspiring no one!

Whether you're renovating to stay or planning to  sell later, the "vanilla renovation" approach robs your space of the very thing that makes a house feel like a home: personality.

Join  me inside as I make the case against soulless renovations and share ways for creating spaces with character, that will still appeal to future buyers. 

We explore the balance...

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Ever catch yourself staring at your walls, feeling a bit… meh? Like your home has lost its spark, but you’re not quite sure why?

That creeping sense of boredom doesn’t mean you need to start knocking down walls or scrolling Rightmove.
Sometimes, all it takes is a few small shifts to completely change how your home feels.

In this episode, I’m sharing six simple but impactful ways to fall back in love with your space.
We’ll talk about the magic of shopping your own home...

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*******************


Hi I'm your host, Tash South I'm an Interior Designer and Renovation Consultant, and I'm here to help you design, renovate and style your home better. Let's create your dream home together.

Each episode of How To Renovate is short, but brimming with practical advice to help you manage your renovation project with confidence and success.

Grab some more renovation advice & free resources and become part of the South Place Studio Renovation Community at
https://www.southplacestudio.com/freebies

Everything...

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This week, I was lucky enough to interview Kate Watson-Smyth. If you love interiors, you’ll undoubtedly know about her! 

Kate is a renowned interiors author, journalist, podcaster and consultant on all matters interior design, and the founder of the award-winning blog Mad About The House, which can now be found on substack. 

Kate wrote an article in The Times that caught my eye - about why she takes no pleasure in renovating and needs it done fast—which really made me smile, because there does seem to be a tren...

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Today on the podcast, it’s all about contractor quotes!
Quotes for renovation work can come in completely differently, making deciphering and comparing them impossible! It’s a really common problem.  

And that then leads to making choosing the right contractor, and budgeting for your project really difficult. 

In this episode, I show you you how to ensure all your quotes are in a consistent format, so you can avoid that headache!
I also go over how important it is to get detailed breakdowns and ask the right...

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If you are renovating a newer property that’s perhaps lacking some style and character, then this episode is for you. 
I’m  often asked how to add personality to newer properties, so in this episode I cover a few ideas -  showing that a home can feel more inviting and soulful through thoughtful renovation and design choices, and personal touches. 

There are so many ways to add interest to boring architecture to create something unique, so join me inside to learn more 
about how you can do this with wind...

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It’s the podcast’s first birthday! 
In this episode I wanted to talk about the meaning behind home renovations, because renovations are more than just bricks and mortar. 
I chat about the emotional connections we have to our spaces and how design can enhance our mental and physical well-being. 
We discuss how light and space can profoundly influence the atmosphere and our emotional health, particularly in darker climates like the UK, and how maximizing natural light can boost your mood.
This episode also emphasises how design can promote well-be...

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She's outraged! 
I thought as I listened back to myself to edit this episode about de-cluttering 😂

I realised how angry I sounded, and I did consider re-recording it, but then realised that I am actually angry about clutter. 🙈 
I’m angry and annoyed about the stress and overwhelm it causes for my brain, and I really don’t like how clutter robs a space of calm. 

This episode is hugely based on an episode of the The Mel Robbins Podcast I listened to a while ago, and I thought...

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In this episode of How to Renovate, for the first time, I’m breaking down my Five Pillar Process, the structure I’ve developed over my many years of renovating, and I one I follow now for every renovation I take on, whether its one of my own, or one for a client.

This Five Pillar Process is also the framework that guides many of the podcast episodes, and what my online renovation course, RenoVersity is structured within. 
The five pillars are:
Planning
Preparation
People
Practical Manag...

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I’ve renovated 14 homes and built one from scratch, this episode contains the mistakes I won’t make again!

Oof! it got a bit real when I added all those up! Made me feel older than I care to admit 😂

This episode is the second part of Design Lessons, last week I talked about what really worked and what I would do again and again, and this week, I’m delving deep into all those past 14 renos and a house build to bring you 7 things that I would do different...

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For the next two episodes, I’m doing something a little different, I’m calling it Design Lessons, and this week I chat through a few things that have worked on every project and would do again and again, and next week I’ll discuss what I would have done differently - so you don’t make the same mistakes. 

The purpose of the podcast is to provide renovation education and what better way than for you to avoid the failures I’ve had - and there have been many over the years!<...

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Hello! 
And welcome to 2025! 

I’m not usually one for New Years’ resolutions, but I do love the feeling of a fresh start that January brings (although I don’t so much love the London weather!) 
Maybe this year your goal or resolution is to finally sort your home that may be driving you crazy! But perhaps you feel a bit overwhelmed about where or how to start? 
Don’t worry - you’re in the right place! Join me inside this episode for 6 ways you can get started and ge...

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Is your compact bathroom in need of a makeover? Discover the secrets to transforming even the tiniest spaces into stylish sanctuaries that prioritize both form and function. This episode sheds light on innovative design strategies perfect for space-constrained environments like London's bustling metropolis. From clever storage solutions such as recessed niches and flush medicine cabinets to the illusionary magic of floating fixtures, we unpack the essentials for a sleek and spacious feel. Get ready to revolutionize your bathroom with vertical storage tips and over-the-door options that keep your sanctuary clutter-free and organized.
<...

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This week on the podcast, I’m doing something a little different, usually I’m talking about renovating your home to make it the best, most functional sanctuary for you and your family, but this week’s episode is all about renovating to sell. 

If you’re renovating a property, but you know it’s not your forever home, then this is a good one to listen to. It’s filled with tips and advice for when you’re renovating, but selling up is on on the horizon. 

I cover the 8 thin...

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It’s officially the first week of the silly season 😬
An exciting and busy time of year where you’re just trying to create a little magic (right?!) on top of all the extra socialising and chores at home 
(mammas, I hear ya!)

If your home’s not quite yet ready to welcome guests amidst the December chaos, I’ve compiled my 7 Top Tips to help you be the host with the most, whilst still having time to spend relaxing moments with your guests.

If you want to actually...

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Are you ready for a masterclass in colour? 
This week, I was lucky enough to interview Francesca Wezel, the founder of Francesca’s Paints. Francesca’s Paints was started in November 1996 and is one of the first eco-friendly paint companies in the UK. Francesca swapped her musical ambitions for a passion for colors after a serendipitous encounter in Australia, transforming her life and career. Her story is a testament to following your passion and embracing unexpected opportunities, as she shares how her love for yoga and travels through India have inspired many of he...

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It’s quite a special day for me today - I have been working on creating this online renovation course for over a year. And finally in this episode, I get to tell you ALL about it because RenoVersity is launching for the first time in January, and the waitlist is now OPEN! 


GET ON THE WAITLIST HERE: https://www.southplacestudio.com/renoversity
 
If you’re a busy home owner who’s frustrated and fed-up with your current home, and you’ve been dying to renovate to make it a more...

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 The addiction they don’t talk about - Interior Doom Scrolling!

I know, I know, it’s all very nice and ‘inspirational’ to spend hours drooling over other people’s homes on Pinterest and Instagram, trying to imagine what your home renovation could one day become.
I’ve been there… you look up your from your phone and an hour and a half has passed…  I mean, who knew drug dealer Jesse Pinkman from Breaking Bad would grow up to have SUCH good taste!? 

But here's the truth: too many options, a...

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Cowboy. Builders. 🤠

Two words I hear every time when talking to future renovators about their top worries about starting a project. 

So this weeks’ episode is here to help with that, it promises to arm you with the knowledge to identify those sneaky red flags that could save you from costly and frustrating renovation disasters. 

Inside I’ll cover 7 Red Flags you should have your eyes wide open to before hiring a contractor or builder. Including: 

1. Lack of Proper Licensing and Insurance
2. Lack of Detail On...

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Hello and Happy Halloween!

This week, as it’s my 31st episode and we are in Halloween week, I’m taking you back to some of my own Renovation Horror Stories! 

Join me inside as I recount some of the scariest, hairiest times during my 16 years of renovating. From collapsing foundations to nosy neighbours and surprise pregnancies, it’s all in there - and as always, I treat you to some tips on how to deal with all the tricky situations.

I’ll see you inside to share my...

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Have you ever asked someone’s opinion on something and then regretted it? Me too. It can get awkward.

When it comes to something as big (and as expensive) as a home renovation, you’ll want to make sure that you’re asking the right people for their input. Mayyyybeeee NOT Mary* in accounts whose home you’ve never laid an eye on before. I find that when people discover you’re renovating, SO many are willing to add their advice and opinions, all usually well-meaning and with good intentions, but you’ll nee...

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Renovation projects can take their toll on our time, patience and pocket, and rushing in without proper planning can be a big mistake.

In this episode I talk through six design decisions you should make early on in your renovation project to save you time and money (and maybe even your sanity and your relationships too!) 

For a smooth running project, tune in to hear why I rate a style board as my number one. That may seem like strange place to start, but hit ‘listen now’ to learn why i...

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This episode is a gem! 
I interview interior stylist Emma Morton-Turner. 
Emma is a fellow podcaster and has been an Interior Stylist and writer for over twenty years. She’s styled home and interiors magazine photo shoots, company brochures, press launches and she also writes features for interiors magazines.

And if that’s not enough, Emma is also the founder of InsideStylists, which is a platform for other interior stylists, writers assistants and photographers, giving them a place to be easily found, along with other professionals in the industry.

E...

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Decision fatigue is real, and if you’ve renovated before, you’ll know that there are hundreds, if not thousands (depending on the size of your reno) of decisions you have to make. 

It’s a common challenge that can halt your progress and completely drain your energy, so in this week’s episode of How To Renovate, I approach the topic and give you 5 ways to avoid decision fatigue during your renovation.

These five strategies will help you to make confident choices and keep your project on track. 

P...

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In this episode we’re talking delays! EEK!

Everyone wants to avoid delays onsite once build works have started because they are a major frustration - your builders are twiddling their thumbs while the budget over-runs each day of the delay! 
Avoiding delays as much as possible is a win-win - you get to move back into your home on time AND you save money.

Join me inside the episode as I’m dishing out 5 Tips on How To Avoid Delays Onsite,  I’ll chat through 
 
...

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This week on the podcast we’re talking about a big decision when you’re about to renovate, it’s whether you should stay in your property while the building works are taking place, or whether you should move out. 

Now, of course this depends on may factors, like your budget, or whether a major home renovation can coexist with your daily life. 

Join me inside the episode for 6 things you should consider when making this decision. From the size and duration of your renovation project to the potential impacts...

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Warning! This episode contains a few instances of swearing!

In this, our very first interview episode on the podcast, I sit down with TV’s Laura Jane Clark, Architect, Author and presenter on TV shows like Ugly House to Lovely House, George Clarke's Amazing Spaces, Shed of the Year, and of course – the popular Your Home Made Perfect.

I was honoured to have Laura on as my first guest, she is so personable and was great fun to interview. In this episode, we chat about how Laura found architecture, the...

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Renovating well is ALL about the planning.
In this episode, I chat through just how important planning and 
front-loading your renovation is to avoid delays to your project.

If you know your taps will take 22 weeks to arrive (crazy, I know!) then at least you can plan for it not to affect your build schedule. 
I’ll give you 5 things you can do to avoid supplier delays and long lead times, from ordering early to having back-up alternatives. 
Also in the episode, I’ll give you a list of...

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If you choose your flooring well it can handle anything from daily family traffic to spontaneous Friday night discos.

This week on the podcast we’re talking flooring. 
One of the decisions my clients tend to get most flustered about during the reno process, is making the right choice when it comes to flooring. It just covers so much surface area! 
So not only do they want it to look good, but be durable enough to handle daily life and those dance moves too.

But don’t worry...

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Home renovations can be a strain. A strain on time, money and relationships, but they can also be exciting. Watching your vision come to life -  from that initial sketch on a napkin that you did when you were out with your partner discussing the possibilities one evening, to seeing every stage being built into reality. It is quite an achievement, so make sure that you take the time to celebrate the milestones and find joy in  the process.

Join me inside this episode - we're uncorking the bubbly at every si...

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This week we’re talking about how to deal with neighbours during a renovation project.

And if you’ve done a reno before, you’ll know that this can be very tricky!

But in this episode I’m giving you all the info and advice to keep that neighbourly love going strong 🖤 !

Whichever you look at it, you will be disturbing your neigbours daily lives during your renovation project, but use these tips and you’ll be setting yourself up to maintain those good relationships with your neighbours.<...

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If you’re anxious about facing the daunting chaos of a home renovation, then this episode is for you. The construction phase can be a rollercoaster – it starts off all exciting, then moves into a lull of dust and debris for months, with a high of seeing everything starting to come together at the end. 

In this episode, I dive into 6 things you can do to reduce stress during the construction phase of a renovation. Of course good planning makes an appearance (if you’ve been listening for a while, you’ll know h...

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This week we’re talking planning permission

Starting a home renovation project can be an exhilarating experience, but the bureaucratic hurdles of the planning permission process can often be off-putting. In this episode, I’ll go over 5 things you can do to help secure that all-important permission that will allow you to start building your dream home. 

We’ll cover why it’s important to do your research and why communication is crucial. 

 Join me inside to get on that path to a successful planning application!

...

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Living onsite during a reno is tough!

In this episode I chat through 7 things you can do to prepare for your home reno to start onsite - including the dilemma of whether to stay put or decamp during a renovation?

It’s a big decision, because staying could save you money, 
but leaving could save your sanity!

I’m also sharing stories of living through my own renovations in a home-turned-construction site, from falling debris to washing my hair in a bucket! 😂

Join me inside t...

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Feeling odd? It’s probably the lighting. 

Have you ever flipped the switch on in a room only to find it feeling odd, but you’re not quite sure why? It’s probably the lighting – badly planned!

Well planned lighting is one of those things that will give your project that considered feel – it’s that intangible element - where the space has a beautiful atmosphere and you just feel automatically relaxed and comfortable in it. Of course you want ambience, but the lighting also has to be functional for those dai...

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This one’s a biggie – are you ready?

Getting realistic quotes for your project is make-or-break, but without strong guidance from you, builders quotes can come in vastly differently, and an underestimated quote can lead to tense relationships onsite, stressful budget overruns and unmet expectations.

In this episode, I cover three very important things you should do to secure as precise a builder quote as possible. Style boards make an unexpected appearance, but you’ll be amazed what a useful tool they can be – if done right. We also chat abo...

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Do I really need an architect? 
It’s one of the first questions I’m asked when carrying out initial renovation consultancy meetings.  

While hiring an architect is optional, there are many benefits to having one on board. From quality of design to guidance with the potentially tricky planning application process.

In this episode I dissect 3 examples of when you do, and 2 examples of when you might not need an architect. 

So if you’re currently wrestling with this dilemma, and wondering if you should go architect...

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This week we’re back to budgets!

If you’re thinking of renovating but unsure about where to pour in the cash, or tighten the purse strings? Then this episode is for you. 

I’ll walk you through 4 things to splurge on, and 4 things to save on.

I’ll cover the crucial areas you should spend on and in this episode I share some of my reno cost-cutting secrets.

To ensure your renovation project is both financially shrewd and stunningly executed, join me inside! 

...

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Budget overruns during the construction phase are a major concern for renovators. The reno process is already quite testing, and if you throw in uncertainty over budget, it can become quite overwhelming.

In this episode we peel back the layers on the unexpected challenges that may come up during your renovation.
 
 We delve into the strategies for mastering prioritising and negotiating your renovation when the numbers start to climb. 
 A tactical itemised budget isn't just a list—it can be your map to manage your renovation's finances effectively, a corn...

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In this episode I guide you through the nuances of party wall agreement, and just why they're so important when it comes to construction near shared walls or boundaries. I’ll cover what exactly a party wall agreement is, when you need one and I’ve got a quick 6-step overview for you so that you can quickly familiarise yourself with the process – without all that legal jargon – from serving notice to your neighbours to securing that all-important go-ahead before you break ground. 

If you're contemplating handling the agreement solo, or enlisting...

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Bathrooms can be very tricky spaces to design

…they are usually smaller spaces in the home, so careful space planning and having  a good, functional layout is essential. In this episode I share my five top tips to elevate this small space into your personal sanctuary. 
With 28% of UK renovators opting to revamp their bathrooms, it's evident that the quest for the perfect washroom is on!

Inside this episode

Join me inside the episode to discuss the essentials of spatial plan...

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Budget worries are right up there when it comes to renovator  stress, but there are ways you can save on your reno, and manage your budget for a far less stressful experience.

Strap in for a financial makeover of your home renovation plans!  We'll tackle the art of proactive project management—if you are in control of your own renovation, then you can monitor your budget health and oversee each professional involved.

In this episode
Expect to navigate the ins and outs of meticulous planning, mast...

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Join me inside episode 10 (already!) to find out if you need planning permission to start that exciting renovation project!

Ever found yourself scratching your head

…pondering whether your dream extension falls within the realm of planning permission or if you're about to waltz into a bureaucratic nightmare? 

Fear not, because this episode is quick guide on planning, where I’lI cover three common situations here in the UK:
 1. If you live in a freehold house
 2. If you live in a flat or apartment
 3...

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In this episode I talk about one of my favourite phases of the entire renovation process: Dreaming!

Picture this
 …your home, not just as a place to live but as a canvas for the way you really want to live. 
I invite you inside this episode to discover the secrets to crafting the living space that doesn't just house your memories but actively enhances your daily life. In today's chat, we'll navigate through the critical 'dreaming phase' of home renovation, uncovering how to fuse your personal tast...

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Have you heard the term Double the time and double the budget when chatting about home renovations before? 

The  expression is a common adage in the world of home renovations, and unfortunately it’s kind of true! 
It’s not that every project’s time and budget will come out doubled, but rather a phrase that manages  expectations, because if you don’t plan your renovation well and have  realistic timelines and budgets, projects will frequently take longer and cost more than you originally anticipated. 

In a home  renovation, the...

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If you're about to renovate…

you have probably started to hear about all the professionals you may need to get involved.

When  I self-built my north London home back in 2017, I had no idea just how  many people could possibly be involved. In this episode, I run through  an extensive list of ALL the professionals that could be involved in a  renovation project, and a short run-down of what each role involves. 

If you're feeling overwhelmed 

…and wondering who does what, then give this episode a listen b...

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Ever felt that flutter of anxiety
…when it's time to pick a builder for your renovation project? You're not alone!
With a staggering 75% of renovators biting their nails over this decision, in this episode I'm unpacking a few questions you can ask potential contractors help you make that important decision and ease your worries. 

This chat isn't just a rundown, it will help you gain an understanding of the breakdown of your builder's estimate, pre-empt extra costs, and understand their workload in a way that will work wit...

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In this episode
…we discuss the most used room in the house – the kitchen.
Kitchens are the most popular rooms to renovate with 35% of renovators choosing to focus on this area, and having  a good layout in the kitchen is make or break – if your layout and  storage doesn’t work, you will hate using your kitchen! 

Discover how the right design can streamline your cooking experience, making every flip of the pancake or stir of the pot a breeze. We kick things off by tackling the daunting ta...

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Ready to transform your home?

But overwhelmed by where to start? Let me be your guide through the labyrinth of home renovation. 

This episode is a treasure trove of insights for both the seasoned renovator and the first-timer, I’ll outline five important things you can do to ensure your project is a roaring success. I’m on a mission to help you avoid the biggest renovation mistakes, and in this episode we discuss five important things you  should do before you start your renovation project

<...

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Imagine
…taking the reins of your home renovation and crafting a space that's a perfect fit for your life. 

That's the empowering path we embarked on this week. Let’s explore the undeniable advantages of leading your own home renovation project.
From ensuring that your unique vision comes to life, to mastering budget and timeline control, this episode is packed with insights that can save you from costly pitfalls. Taking a proactive role does more than personalise your space, it transforms your house into your dream home, with...

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In this episode…

I go over four regrets or concerns I’ve heard come up working with renovators over the years, from not hiring professionals in the correct order, to not asking the right questions, it’s all in here! Knowing the mistakes of those who have gone before you is gold dust - I know I’ve certainly made a few that you can learn from!

What does a successful home renovation mean to you?
This episode peels back the layers of what success in home...

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Welcome to the very first episode of How To Renovate!

Embark on the transformation of your home with me - I’m here with Renovation Education to help set out a blueprint for turning your home into a beautiful sanctuary that's a perfect combo of your personal style and functional needs. 

Brace yourself for a deep dive into the heart of home renovations, where, episode by episode, we navigate the fear of budgets, and embrace the thrill of creating spaces that don't just look pretty, but function wel...