Before You Start Your Reno: The Three Steps That Make All the Difference
Renovating is exciting — it’s your chance to shape your home around the way you actually live.
But before the tools come out or you jump into plans, budgets, and builder quotes, it’s worth taking a breath.
The truth is, the most successful renovations don’t start with demolition — they start with observation.
Here are three simple steps to get you started on the right foot.
1. Live in the Space First
Before you call the architect or start sketching ideas, spend some time truly living in your home.
Notice how it feels at different times of the day — how the light moves, where you naturally gather, and which corners never seem to work.
Ask yourself:
What areas feel cramped, dark, or underused?
Where does the morning sun fall?
Which spaces don’t flow well together?
What do you wish you had more of — storage, light, or connection?
You’ll be amazed by how much clarity comes from simply observing your space for a few weeks.
When you understand how you use your home, your renovation will be shaped around your real life, not just what looks nice on Pinterest.
2. Create a Vision Board
Once you’ve spent time observing, it’s time to dream.
Gather inspiration that reflects your lifestyle and personality — not just what’s trendy right now.
Start a Pinterest board or a good old-fashioned scrapbook with:
Colours, textures, and finishes that make you feel good
Layout ideas that fit the way you want to live
Architectural details that catch your eye
Then, look for patterns — do you see warm timber tones, clean whites, or soft natural light?
Try describing your dream home in three or four words. Maybe it’s calm, open, timeless, or cozy.
Your vision board becomes a roadmap for the rest of the journey — helping you and your builder see the same end goal.
3. Start Sketching Some Ideas
Now it’s time to bring those ideas to life.
Grab a pencil and start rough sketching. It doesn’t need to be perfect — this is about exploring possibilities.
Sketch what could change, what could stay, and how you’d like your rooms to flow.
If you have an existing floor plan, print it out and trace over it to test different layouts.
Think about:
How people move through your home
Whether spaces connect the way you’d like
How to maximise natural light and comfort
Even basic sketches help you communicate your ideas clearly once you start working with designers or builders.
Renovations aren’t just about new walls or fresh paint — they’re about creating spaces that feel like home.
So before you jump into quotes and contracts, take time to dream, plan, and understand your space.
When you’re ready, Zen Builders can help turn those early ideas into reality — with a process that keeps things clear, simple, and genuinely enjoyable.
Once you’ve dreamed it, sketched it, and made your list — you’re ready for a conversation.
Zen Builders can help you refine your ideas, handle consents, and bring your vision to life.
Ready to start your reno journey?
Here are 3 ways in which we can help you…
If you’re ready to start your renovation or new build then make a time for a non- obligatory chat. We’ll listen to your description and talk to you about how we can help. Send us an email directly or contact us through our website
Have any questions? Check out our blog where you can find the answers to some commonly asked questions
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It’s a place where you can see our team in action so you can get to know us a little better.