Being the boss (yes, that's you!)
If only it were so easy! A more accurate term would be ‘The Boss’, because every single decision, small and large, ultimately comes back to you.
Look around the room you are sitting in right now. Every single item you see is a decision that has been made. Granted, you may have professionals advising you on your selections, but someone has to say yes or no. It’s not even making a decision based only on whether you like the thing; it’s whether you can afford it, whether it fits with everything else, if it will arrive on site on time.
Every decision will, at minimum, require a conversation; with your partner, designer…any stranger who is willing to listen! But will most often be the subject of an online search so detailed you will no longer remember what you started searching for, or why you even care.
"Look around the room you are sitting in right now. Every single item that you can see is a decision that has been made."
Being ‘The Boss’ isn’t easy and will eat up all of your spare time. Evenings and weekends spent searching Pinterest, looking for products, ordering, arranging deliveries, and returns if something arrives broken or wrong. Time spent pouring through finances to see where you can eek out extra money, making payments until you know your card number off by heart. Trying to decide if you’re happy with the inevitable design changes and compromises that are part of creating a bespoke project.
Still want to add project management to that list?
What we’re saying is that the term ‘Client’ woefully plays down your involvement in the project and shouldn’t be underestimated. It’s this underestimation that leads to people taking on more than they can feasibly handle and a very stressful time on site.
If you STILL fancy flexing your project management muscles, then make sure you’re prepared. Take a look at our Site Survival Course which is designed to help you on your way!
Our HomeNotes Journal is here to bring you clear and up-to-date information for homeowners renovating their homes. For more in-depth help we provide online courses to help you get started the right way!
Natural Plaster – and why we can’t get enough
Want a material that is beautiful, and works hard for you? Look no further than Natural Plaster. We explain why we can’t get enough of it!
The New DIY: Online Renovation Courses
More homeowners are turning to online renovation courses as a way to save costs on their renovations. Take a look at our top picks!
Where NOT to scrimp on your renovation
Sometimes it’s tempting to cut corners and save a few pounds but it’s likely you’ll regret it in the long term. We share our top tips of where it doesn’t pay to scrimp in your dream home.
Open House Festival: 8th – 21st of September
For those who have decided THIS is the year that they’re going to bite the bullet and renovate, Open House London is a chance to go and see some projects up close and personal. Here’s our list of recommended projects to go visit.
Why do we still not have a national retrofit strategy?
We talk to Paul Testa of HEM Architecture about why we need a national retrofit strategy and why it needs to happen now.
How to prepare your house for builders: 10 things you must do
When getting ready to receive contractors into your home it’s important to prepare your property. Get started with these 10 must do tasks!
Our 10 top tips to buying a house
Buying a house is potentially the biggest financial commitment you will ever make, so take the time to prep with our tips!
Don’t move, Improve! 2022 Shortlist
Check out the 15 incredible London renovation projects shortlisted for this year’s Don’t Move, Improve! Awards and get inspired!
Viewing a property: The ultimate checklist
You’ve done your research! But when you’re in the actual property, remember to consider the following things…
How much will my extension cost in 2022?
When it comes to home-renovating this is the most common question we get asked. So let’s get right to it, how do you work out the REAL cost? Read on to find out!
How to make the most of a Trade Show
Returning to thoughts of renovating your home? Then jumpstart your project by attending a trade show. But first make sure you read our top tips on how to make the most of your visit!
Top tips for renovating from industry experts
We asked a range of architects and experts working in the residential sector to give us their top tip for homeowners who want to renovate.
Worried about increasing construction prices?
Everyone is concerned about increasing construction costs. We talk to BuildPartner about what measures home renovators can take to reduce risks for their projects.
Your handy guide to assessing builders
Linden from Weaver shares his a handy guide to assessing builders. So before a spade is in the ground, it’s worth taking a moment to prepare.
Product spotlight: Little Bishop Hook
A neat solution for pendant lighting; we take a look at the clean design and appealing simplicity of the Little Bishop Pendant Hook
The ‘Iron Triangle’ you should embrace
It may sound daunting, but knowing about the ‘Iron Triangle’ in advance can help you plan your project and set realistic expectations.
Making the most of your outdoor space
If you’re living in London, then chances are you’re severely lacking in one department: outdoor space. But even if you only have a small patch to play with, this space can do so much for you with a bit of care and forward planning.
Your ultimate guide to extractor fans
Our complete guide answers all your extractor fan questions (even those you didn’t know you had!)
EJ Ryder and the world of joinery
Edwin J Ryder and his team specialise in bold, creative design and impeccable workmanship in their joinery and interior finishes. We spoke with Edwin to find out how they work with clients on their property renovations.
Why well designed homes cost more
Good design isn’t just a luxury for those with the biggest budgets; it’s a sound financial decision for everyone. We take a look at The Modern House and their approach.
