Planning
The act or process of making or carrying out plans by design.
In construction–it’s the control of urban development by a local government authority. A license must be obtained to build a new property or change an existing one.
When starting a remodeling project, it’s crucial to consider who will be using the space and how they’ll use it. This process can serve as the “north star” for your project.
You want your investment of time and resources to result in a final product that meets the needs of the user and the intended purpose of the space.
For instance, the design requirements for a family with growing children will differ significantly from someone planning an Additional Dwelling Unit into a rental studio.
Project goals
Designing for a home can be a very personal process. Whether it’s for a family or an individual, the goal is to enhance their quality of life within the space.
Furthermore, your project can be about analyzing and interpreting their desired experience and preferences for each area of their home.
Planning for weather and natural light
Consider any natural or weather-related factors that may affect your renovation project. Additionally, take into account any unique structural features that you may want to incorporate or avoid during the remodeling process.
To ensure a successful renovation project, it’s important to take into account the physical context and desired features of the space. For instance, you may want to prioritize adding natural sunlight to a space that lacks it, decide whether to keep or cover exposed brick, or take advantage of high vaulted ceilings for vertical space.
Exploring current designs and spaces that inspire you is crucial in envisioning the desired end-result of your renovation project. You can draw inspiration from other homes or buildings that resonate with your style and preferences, and consider how you can incorporate similar elements into your own space.
If there are physical buildings you have visited that inspire you, that’s great! However, if it’s someone else’s private property, such as a friend’s home, be sure to ask for permission before taking photos of any elements you like.
Gathering design ideas and inspiration for your renovation project can be done through online research as well. Creating a digital collage or a Pinterest board to collect photos and notes can be helpful in keeping all your ideas organized.