7 Essentials for Starting Your Home Renovation or New Home Design Project

Holly & Laura work with a client

What to Think About Before You Design Your Own Home

You’re thinking of starting a new home design project, but you’re not quite sure where to start. Are you wondering, “How long does it take to build a house?” or curious about “How much does it cost to build a house?”? In Episode 89 of The Architecture Happy Hour podcast, co-hosts and residential architects, Laura Davis and Holly Hall roll out the first episode in their new Home Design Series, talking about the 7 Essentials for Starting Your Home Renovation or New Home Design Project. Join Laura and Holly as they talk about the 7 things you absolutely need and the questions you need to ask when you’re starting a new home design project.

In this Episode:

The 7 Essentials for Starting Your Home Renovation or New Home Design Project

WHAT would be included in your ideal home?

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  • What’s on your wish list?
  • What will your dream home look like?
  • What types of rooms do you need?
  • What kind of home style you prefer? Traditional, modern, farmhouse?

WHERE is the location for your ideal home?

  • Where are you wanting to do this renovation?
  • What do you need to know about local zoning regulations?
  • Does your home owner’s association have restrictions or design guidelines?

WHEN is the best time to remodel your house?

  • How long does it take to build a house?
  • What is a typical design and construction timeline?
  • Do you have life or family events we need to work around?

WHY do you want to do this home design project?

  • What is the goal of the project?
  • How can your home support your lifestyle?
  • Is this a short term investment or your forever home?

WHO will be living in the home?

  • Who is involved in building a house?
  • Who will live in the house?
  • Will you be doing much entertaining?
  • Do you have kids or grandkids that need a playroom or space to run around?
  • Do any of the residents have mobility issues; do you need to plan for aging-in-place?
  • Who are the decision makers?

HOW will your dream home become a reality?

  • How will this project be managed?
  • How much does it cost to build a house?
  • Do you have a home building budget?
  • How do I know if I’m going to overbuild for my neighborhood?

TEAM members to make the project a success?

  • Do I have a good realtor to advise me on home values and neighborhoods?
  • Should I be my own general contractor?
  • Do I need an architect or an interior designer to create floor plans?
  • What other consultants will I need for my home build project?

Download the Checklist Here!

Have questions you’d like us to answer? Contact us here!

Stay tuned for the next podcasts in the series and in the meantime, you might want to look at these related posts:

Building a new home
Questions to ask before designing your new home

Laura

VP, Architect, hpd architecture + interiors
Laura Davis is a Texas and Colorado registered architect and interior designer, and a co-founder of hpd architecture + interiors. With a diverse portfolio spanning residential, commercial, retail, and historical projects, Laura’s heart lies with her specialty in Historic Preservation. She loves to revitalize older properties, cherishing their character and the stories they hold. Her true passion lies in understanding her clients deeply, uncovering their desires and motivations, and crafting designs that turn houses into cherished homes.

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Laura Davis is a registered architect and interior designer in the state of Texas and Colorado, and a founding member of hpd architecture + interiors. Laura's extensive experience includes residential as well as commercial and retail projects.  She also has a particular interest in restoration, holding a certificate in Historic Preservation. She is energized by the character of older homes and the stories of those who have lived there. Responding to the needs of the current owner, while also honoring the personality of the original home is a delicate process to be enjoyed.

Laura Davis

Vice President, Architect, Interior Designer Principal , hpd architecture + interiors