
Renovation Planning: Your Simple Guide To Success
Solid renovation planning can make all the difference in determining whether your project will be successful and delivered on time and within budget.

Renovating your home is an exciting but daunting task that requires a substantial financial commitment and precise planning.
Following our renovation guide, you can achieve your dream home without feeling overwhelmed by the decisions during the process. Here are the steps to follow when you intend to renovate your house substantially.
Step 1: Planning your renovation
A successful renovation begins with thorough planning and creating a precise brief. During this phase, you make crucial decisions that will impact the rest of the build and the overall conceptual design. This is the time to consider the must-have and nice-to-have features of your renovated home. Our pro tip is to write those down and refer back to this list if you feel that you lose sight of our original renovation goals.
Step 2: Visualise your renovated home
This step in your renovation planning involves creating detailed drawings of your proposed residence. When creating proposed plans at Martina Hayes, our building designers demonstrate the ripple effects of your decisions and how they can impact different areas of the house.
Envisioning your space is a critical aspect of the renovation process. If you cannot visualise how your home will look, it impacts your overall feelings towards your project. At Martina Hayes, we provide not only professional concept plans but also realistic 3D visual representations. These drawings show you exactly how your space has the potential to look and function. Subsequently, this enables you to make informed decisions during the process.
Step 3: Planning your renovation budget
A clear understanding of the cost involved is essential when doing a complete renovation of your home. Calculating a budget is part of the renovation planning process that causes homeowners the most worry and concern. This is why we developed our Budget Bridle process to ensure our solutions fit your budget.
How does the Budget Bridle process work?
During the renovation planning process, we provide at least two proposed renovation options based on your advised budget. One option includes everything you dream of, while the other offers some compromises to keep costs down. Only once we get a quote from the builder for both alternatives will you decide which option to pursue. This way, you know exactly what you will get and what it will cost. With our experience in building design and interior design, we can also help you make informed decisions about the return on investment of your renovation.
Step 4: Coordinating building professionals
Renovation planning also encompasses the engagement of various building professionals, such as surveyors or structural engineers. Not only do we coordinate these building professionals, but we also compare builders’ quotes to help you make the right decision. Additionally, our team will provide drawings to be submitted to the council or a private certifier to obtain a building permit, if required.
Step 5: Choosing your finishes
During the renovation planning process, we begin selecting finishes for all spaces, including flooring, bathroom tiles and kitchen benchtops. This way, we are always on the front foot, and you won’t be rushed into any decision. Additionally, we help you select furniture and decorative pieces that will bring character to your space. It is these details that make your home truly feel your own.
Renovation planning completed
With the completion of the planning process, the exciting construction phase can begin. Most importantly, you are well-equipped for this chapter with your detailed plans and specification sheets. While the construction is underway, our team will be present on-site to oversee the progress and address any questions that may arise. Take a look at the photos of some of our completed projects from the list below.
- Harbourside luxury apartment
- House extension in Epping
- Home renovation in Lane Cove
- Contemporary residence in Mosman.
If you’re unsure whether you should hire an architect for your renovation or a building designer, have a look at our overview Architect vs Building Designer. It will tell you which one is right for you.
A wrap – What working with our team looks like
- Conceptual visual 2D and 3D designs
- Coordination of building professionals
- Drawings for council submission (DA) or private certifier (CDC)
- Assistance with builder selection and comparison of quotes
- Design of kitchen and bathroom, including detailed plans for joiners
- Selection of finishes and furniture
- Site visits during construction
Interior design fees
Take a look at this article to learn more about how to budget for interior design fees and what services are typically included.
From concept to completion
At Martina Hayes, Building Design and Interior Design, we guide you through the entire renovation process, from planning and construction to the final steps of your project. Our expert team coordinates your entire renovation from start to finish, taking all the pressure off you. Before you go, take a look at the before-and-after renovation photos of one of our recently completed projects in Epping.
Once your house is ready to move back in, Sydney removalists will transport your furniture, clothes and other personal items to your new space. Then, our interior decorating team will add the finishing touches to make your home look perfect.
Contact Martina at 0434 498 450 or email martina@martinahayes.com.au to bring your dream home to life. Alternatively, schedule a discovery call below for a time that’s convenient for you.









