This week, we talk with Natallia and Matt who share their remarkable ten-year DIY journey. Starting with a modest London flat, they built skills, overcame challenges, and created a home that won an award at this year’s Don’t Move, Improve awards.

This week we are joined by Karen who talks to us about her renovation of a semi-detached Edwardian house in Manchester. Karen shares the role her architect played, as well as the challenges of turning a dark house into a bright and welcoming family home.

In this episode we speak with Issey about transforming her 1960s maisonette. With her background in interior architecture and a sharp eye for design, Issey shares how she and her partner created a light-filled home on a careful budget, and the inspiration that guided their choices along the way.

In this episode, we speak with Robyn who shares how she transformed a budget-friendly 1930s home into a bold, joyful space with the help of architects Office S&M. It’s a story about colour, collaboration, and creating a home that radiates happiness.

In this final episode of our mini series Home Truths, we discuss why your renovation project is likely to take longer than expected. We break down a typical project timeline, highlight factors that contribute to delays, and offer tips on how to stay on track. Join us as we share valuable insights to help you avoid a stressful renovation experience.

In this episode we dive in to how you can add value through your own work on your project, also known as ‘sweat equity’. We discuss the complexities of taking on roles like project manager and main contractor, highlight the importance of coordination, and delve into potential cost-saving strategies such as handling party wall notices, kitchen design, and decoration yourself.

In this episode, we delve into the top 10 things to avoid if you want a smooth renovation process. From choosing the right team and being honest about your budget, to dedicating enough time and avoiding mid-project changes, we cover it all.

In this episode, we dive into whether renovating is truly worth it from a financial perspective and explore how it impacts your time, energy, relationships, and lifestyle. We discuss how to assess the financial viability of renovations, research local property values, and consult estate agents. If you're debating whether to renovate or relocate, this episode is for you!

Did you know house renovations can strain relationships, with nearly one in ten British couples splitting up? In this episode, we delve into the underlying reasons, from financial stress to how renovations impact future planning and relationships, as well as share valuable tips on managing renovation stress together.

In this episode, explore how to balance high design dreams with tight budgets. Discover the types of renovation projects—space-efficient, bespoke, and a hybrid of the two. Learn the challenges and strategies for mixing cost-effective methods with bespoke elements, including leveraging interior design services, affordable lighting plans, and upgrading materials smartly.