Embarking on the design of a new home can be both an exciting and a daunting prospect. Some of the creative decisions to be made are clear, such as layout of rooms, choice of materials, colour of walls and whether or not there is a fireplace. But an expert designer will consider a host of other less obvious concepts. They’ll also know that achieving a successful end result relies heavily on the preparation work done before the first line is drawn.
One of the most important skills needed by a designer is an ability to quickly tune into their clients’ hopes and desires for their new home, and incorporate them without overspending on the budget. Unless you are lucky enough to have no financial limit, each key creative decision should be taken with the likely effect on the build cost in mind.
Most of us want more than we can afford in life and this is usually true when it comes to building projects, so all your important requirements should be listed in order of priority. The designer needs a clear idea of which aspects of the finished building are either essential, desirable or a luxury that could be sacrificed if the plans are at risk of becoming too expensive. Knowing when to let go of one idea so another, more important element can be included is an integral part of the creative process.