We’re Amy and Jane 👋 we met doing architecture at university, and later set up a residential architect practice together. Working with homeowners was our favourite thing – it’s personal, it’s human, and the budget constraints required us to be more creative in our solutions. We loved helping people bring their renovation dreams to life.
But after helping a number of homeowners through the complicated renovation process, we realised how many more people needed the same support. We saw a huge educational gap in the home renovation space, and that’s how HomeNotes was born.
There are so many players in the home renovation game: architects, builders, suppliers, contractors – but the homeowner seems to be the person out of the loop most of the time (which feels unfair, right?). We wanted to put the homeowner centre stage – so we started creating content to help them, producing videos, workshops, and courses on the renovation process.
As part of that journey, we learned A LOT from homeowners. We heard about them feeling let down by architects, and all of their biggest problems and hurdles. So we started talking to architects too, bringing them into our discussions and joining the dots.
The HomeNotes App is the exciting next step of this journey – combining everything we’ve learned from homeowners over the past 10 years to give them more autonomy and empower them to make the best renovation decisions.
After years working with home renovators, seeing the same challenges come up time and time again – we’re so excited that the HomeNotes app is here! Here’s how it addresses those challenges, and empowers you to turn your renovation dreams into reality…
The Challenges Home Renovators Face
Here are the most common challenges involved in a home renovation which we’ve dealt with first hand as residential architects:
- Jumping in Too Quickly
The urge to start your project can be strong. We get it – you’re living with the problem every day, and the sooner you can fix it, the better. But rushing into renovations without a clear plan or proper budgeting can lead to costly mistakes down the line.
- The Budget Black Hole
Of course, you have a vision of what you want – but most homeowners lack the understanding of what it will cost. Pinterest might be full of inspiration, but it rarely reflects real-world budgets. The result? Misaligned expectations and stress when costs start to spiral.
- Choosing your Team Wisely
Not all architects are the same – and most people don’t know what type of architect they need. For example, you might envisage a Grand Designs-esque architect holding your hand through the whole process, but end up with only technical drawings. Or you want function over detail, but your design-focused architect has already planned for expensive statement skirting boards…
It All Starts with your Budget
Setting and managing a renovation budget is one of the hardest parts of home renovation for homeowners. Money management is stressful at the best of times, let alone when you’re renovating your biggest asset, and the place you call home.
Through our client work, we saw the same budgeting mistakes over and over:
- Lack of a budgeting plan leading to hasty decisions
- Having ‘one pot’ for the whole renovation without dividing the budget
- Misalignment with architects or contractors leaving both sides disappointed
Once people understand the process, and they understand the costs, they feel in control. It’s when there are unknown costs and confusing processes that it becomes stressful.
So we knew we wanted to build something that would solve this problem. Having a tool that is budget-focused means the homeowner can feel in control throughout the process.
The success of any renovation comes down to two critical factors: budgeting and communication. When you have a clear understanding of your finances and an easy way to collaborate and effectively communicate with your renovation team, everything runs more smoothly.
That’s where the HomeNotes app comes in:
How the HomeNotes App Helps
1. Budget with Confidence
At the heart of the app is a budgeting tool that keeps you in control. You’ll know exactly how much you’re spending, where your money is going, and how to make informed decisions. By getting a grip on your budget early, you can avoid unpleasant surprises and stay focused on creating a home you love.
2. Turn Inspiration into Reality
Pinterest boards are great for dreaming, but they don’t tell you if that dream kitchen sink is in budget. The HomeNotes app helps you connect your vision with real-world costs. Create mood boards, explore product options, and make choices based on what’s achievable – so you can stay true to your style without blowing your budget.
3. Build Confidence with Education
Renovations can feel like stepping into the unknown. That’s why HomeNotes provides resources to help you understand the process, anticipate challenges, and feel confident every step of the way. When you know what to expect, you’re empowered to make better decisions and advocate for what you want.
4. Collaborate with Ease
Renovating isn’t a solo mission. Whether you’re working with an architect, a contractor, or your partner – good communication is essential. The HomeNotes app makes it easy to share ideas, track approvals, and keep everyone aligned, so you can avoid last-minute panics, and stay in control of your project.
