It's easy to get carried away in a renovation of a home with the look of a space and let function fall by the wayside.
While renovating can often all be about improving the look and feel of the property, there should be a balance between form and function to ensure that how the property ends up looking and how it works is equally important.
The dilemma of form and function will probably always be a chicken or the egg scenario, however, it's important to focus on a few elements to ensure your renovation is a success and provides your property with a ROI if you sell or use your home as an investment property in the future.
While it's easy to focus all on form, we've outlined a few functional elements for each space to consider for owner builders undertaking a renovation of any scale.
Bathroom Considerations
- What are the dimensions and positions of existing doors, windows and skylights? These will affect the new floor plan as well as new fixtures and fittings, so it's important these are laid out so you don't have issues when installing your new bath, loo or vanity.
- Do you need to add any additional power or plumbing?
- Do you need to add extra structure to the space including sunken bath or wall cavities in the shower?
- Do you need to move plumbing?
- Will your fixtures fit? There is no point buying an incredible shower unit and not have enough room, checking the size and measurements is essential ahead of any renovation for an owner builder
Kitchen Considerations
- What will the layout be and will it fit in the space available?
- Do you want an island bench in the middle of the kitchen area?
- How big is your family? What size kitchen is required?
- How much cupboard space is required?
- What are the dimensions of your appliances and will they fit in your space?
- Do you want a butlers pantry or walk-in space for storage?
- What bench tops will be used?
- Do you need to plumb in anything extra for water, gas or electricity?
Living Room Considerations
- Does your floor plan work for your family?
- Do you need to change the layout of the entries or remove walls for extra space?
- If you're an owner builder renovating to sell, is there something you can add that will offer more ROI such as a fireplace, skylight or additional dining room?
- Do you need to build in cupboards in the space?
- Are there enough electrical points and lighting for the space or additional electrical outlets required?
Bedroom Considerations
- Will any rooms be gaining an ensuite? Or will your ensuite be updated?
- Do you need to focus on the floor plan to make any of the rooms larger or smaller?
- Will the cupboards or wardrobes need to be built in?
- Will you be adding air conditioning or need to add in fans?
- Do you have a lighting plan for the property?
Outdoor Considerations
- Do you need to create a landscaping plan to ensure you have enough space for all the essentials including clothesline?
- Do you need to add a water tank - either under the house or in the garden?
While it can be easy to focus primarily on the form of the property you are renovating, shying away from the functionality of the space can be a major issue.
Finding the perfect light fittings, the most incredible soft furnishings and ensuring the fine lines of the bathroom don't break the flow of the space while important, should not be the primary focus during your home renovation.
Striking a balance between form and function is essential, so you don't wind up with a stunning home that forgets the basic amenities for you and your family's day-to-day life - such as towel racks and adequate storage and space for your family to enjoy.
Prospective NSW owner builders and QLD owner builders now have the option of undertaking an online course to get their qualification quickly and simply online.